Rate My Professor Max Allen

Max Allen is a Test and Performance Analyst in the Information Technology Services Division at the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand. He holds a Master of Science degree in Information Science from the University of Otago, awarded with Distinction following studies from 2006 to 2014. His academic work centered on human-computer interaction and augmented reality applications, particularly in rehabilitation and public engagement. Allen's MSc thesis, "Visual Occlusion and User Experience in Augmented Reality Post-Stroke Therapy," supervised by Holger Regenbrecht, investigated user perceptions in AR therapeutic systems. This research contributed to the publication "Visual Occlusion in an Augmented Reality Post-Stroke Therapy Scenario," co-authored with Simon Hoermann, Thammathip Piumsomboon, and Holger Regenbrecht, presented at CHINZ 2013. The study implemented a Kinect-based reach exercise with depth sensing for accurate upper-limb occlusion. Thirty participants tested three modes—correct occlusion, virtual-always-occludes, and semi-transparent objects—revealing correct occlusion as the preferred for its tangible, realistic interaction.

Allen also co-authored "Smart-phone Augmented Reality for Public Participation in Urban Planning" with Holger Regenbrecht and Mick Abbott, presented at OZCHI 2011. The prototype used smartphone AR to overlay 3D architectural designs on real buildings, enabling public visualization and voting. An 18-participant field study showed significantly increased participation willingness (p=0.005), ease of use, and utility for engagement, though feedback consideration concerns persisted. His professional trajectory at the University of Otago includes Summer Research Student in 2011, Tutor in 2013, Android Developer since June 2014, and his current analyst role, reflecting expertise in software development, performance testing, and innovative tech applications in academic settings.