Title: Affect detection and metaphor in e-drama

Authors: Li Zhang, John A. Barnden, Robert J. Hendley, Mark G. Lee, Alan M. Wallington, Zhigang Wen

Addresses: School of Computer Science, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK. ' School of Computer Science, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK. ' School of Computer Science, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK. ' School of Computer Science, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK. ' School of Computer Science, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK. ' School of Computer Science, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK

Abstract: We report work on adding affect-detection to an existing e-drama programme, a text-based software system for (human) dramatic improvisation in simple virtual scenarios, for use primarily in learning contexts. The system allows a human director to monitor improvisations and make interventions, for instance in reaction to excessive, insufficient or inappropriate emotions in the characters| speeches. Within an endeavour to partially automate directors| functions, and to allow for automated affective bit part characters, we have developed an affect-detection module. It is aimed at detecting affective aspect (concerning emotions, moods, rudeness, value judgments, etc.) of human-controlled characters| textual |speeches|. The work also accompanies basic research into how affect is conveyed linguistically. A distinctive feature of the project is a focus on the metaphorical ways in which affect is conveyed. The project addresses the special issue themes such as making interactive narrative learning environments more usable, building them, and supporting reflection on narrative construction.

Keywords: affect detection; e-drama; intelligent virtual actors; metaphor; dramatic improvisation; virtual scenarios; e-learning; interactive narrative environments; interactive learning environments; directors; bit part characters; reflection; narrative construction; online drama; virtual drama.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCEELL.2008.017378

International Journal of Continuing Engineering Education and Life-Long Learning, 2008 Vol.18 No.2, pp.234 - 252

Published online: 02 Mar 2008 *

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