Sepalika Perera

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Sepalika Perera is a pioneering researcher in human-computer interaction, with a focus on socially intelligent agents and affective computing in public spaces. Her work explores how virtual agents can build meaningful, relational connections with users through nuanced displays of affect and social behavior. Her most-cited paper, "Public Displays of Affect" (2008, 20 citations), introduces foundational design principles for deploying agents that engage users in public settings—such as a virtual science museum guide—by leveraging human relationship-building cues to foster sustained interaction. This contribution has shaped the development of more natural, empathetic interfaces in contexts ranging from education to public installations. Perera’s research bridges the gap between technical agent design and social psychology, offering a blueprint for creating agents that are not merely functional but socially resonant. Her work is particularly influential for researchers and students interested in affective computing, social robotics, and user experience design in public environments.