# What is "Spatial" about Spatial Computing?

## TL;DR

This paper explores the conceptual foundations of spatial computing, tracing its evolution and proposing a unified understanding that integrates diverse perspectives to foster clearer research directions and technological innovations.

## Contribution

It synthesizes different interpretations of 'spatial' in spatial computing and proposes a holistic paradigm to unify the field's conceptual framework.

## Key findings

- Identifies two main schools of thought on 'spatial' in spatial computing.
- Provides a historical overview of the field's evolution.
- Proposes a unified conceptual model for spatial computing.

## Abstract

Recent advancements in geographic information systems and mixed reality technologies have positioned spatial computing as a transformative paradigm in computational science. However, the field remains conceptually fragmented, with diverse interpretations across disciplines like Human-Computer Interaction, Geographic Information Science, and Computer Science, which hinders a comprehensive understanding of spatial computing and poses challenges for its coherent advancement and interdisciplinary integration. In this paper, we trace the origins and historical evolution of spatial computing and examine how "spatial" is understood, identifying two schools of thought: "spatial" as the contextual understanding of space, where spatial data guides interaction in the physical world; and "spatial" as a mixed space for interaction, emphasizing the seamless integration of physical and digital environments to enable embodied engagement. By synthesizing these perspectives, we propose spatial computing as a computational paradigm that redefines the interplay between environment, computation, and human experience, offering a holistic lens to enhance its conceptual clarity and inspire future technological innovations that support meaningful interactions with and shaping of environments.