Reflections and Discussion

• Families remained calm, interested and participative throughout the laboratories. The atmosphere was described as relaxed and trusting, with no evident constraint regarding the presence of cameras, sensors or other technological elements. 

• Compared with previous sessions, technology appeared to be increasingly integrated into the overall experience. Sensors, cameras and XR visualisations seemed less disruptive and more naturally embedded within the artistic and relational environment. 

• The introduction of sensor sleeves represented an important improvement. Beyond practical advantages related to placement, removal and hygiene, the sleeves contributed to making the sensors more discreet, aesthetically softer and more compatible with the delicate context of work with babies and families. 

• Parents remained curious about the broader objectives of the project. Their questions focused mainly on where AMPLIFY aims to arrive, what the physiological data may reveal and how these data may contribute to the future development of baby composer scores. 

• The technological upgrades introduced in these laboratories represented a relevant progression. In addition to the oscilloscope visualisation, artists were able to explore abstract mapping as a new layer of representation. This created a broader chain between data collection and artistic interpretation: 

  Physiological data → Visual representations → XR visualisation → Artistic interpretation → Future development of baby composer scores. 

• The abstract mapping guide helped clarify how different indicators may be translated into visual elements. Form, pulse, colour, intensity of movement, solidity and coherence were associated with different physiological or affective dimensions, offering artists a more structured way of interpreting the visual outputs. 

• At the same time, the sessions highlighted that the interpretation of data remains a complex process. Concepts such as engagement require further clarification, particularly in relation to how physiological indicators are selected, represented and understood within an artistic context. 

• The use of XR glasses continued to raise usability considerations. Artists noted that correct positioning remains important for visual clarity and comfort. The need to exchange glasses between users may affect adjustment and stability, and two artists reported temporary eye discomfort after removing the glasses. 

• The menu system and tactile interaction also remain demanding during real-time performance. Artists expressed the need to simplify pathways to the visual information, limiting what is shown to what is most relevant for artistic decision-making. 

• However, there was a shared perception that the system has evolved. The visualisation is becoming easier to understand, the positioning of visual representations in virtual space has become more functional, and the updated software generated enthusiasm among artists. 

• The artists also reflected on future equipment developments. The possible introduction of transparent XR glasses was seen as a potentially important improvement, as it could support a more natural integration of the technology into the performance environment and a stronger aesthetic alignment with the artistic context. 

• The discussion also opened space for reflection on the potential of the “baby choreographer” concept. Although movement is already present in Pilot 2 through the embodied interpretation carried out by the dancer, artists recognised that many of the readings generated from the collected data may also support choreographic processes and movement-based creation. 

• Another important point was the recognition of the need for dedicated technical support during future sessions. As the system becomes more complex, having a person focused specifically on technological operation, monitoring and correction may allow artists to remain more available for the performative and relational dimensions of the experience. 

• The artists also highlighted the importance of continuing to build technological literacy within the team. Understanding the system more deeply may help artists to update, interpret and correct sensory information during the creative process. 

• Overall, these laboratories were perceived as a significant step forward in terms of technological richness, artistic thinking and shared understanding of the project. AMPLIFY continues to emerge as a research process in continuous development, where families, babies, artists, technology and community participation evolve together.