Researchers at the University of Toronto have compiled a dataset tracking dialogue on Star Trek: The Next Generation between the TV show’s characters and the central computer. The dataset contains episode numbers, character names, lines of dialogue, types of dialogue, and the computer’s response. In an accompanying paper, the researchers noted that science fiction content frequently sets user expectations for current technologies. In comparing the computer’s voice user interface to current voice user interfaces, the team found that interactions with the Enterprise’s computer were more brief, functional, and context-driven, often with no spoken response. They then suggested that the Enterprise’s computer could serve as a model for designing future voice user interfaces.
Image credit: Flickr user rodgerspix
