Theorising in HCI using Causal Models
Eduardo Velloso, Kasper Hornbæk · 2025
Although the literature on Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) catalogues many theories, it offers surprisingly few tools for theorising.This paper critiques dominant approaches to engaging with theory and proposes a working model for theorising in HCI.We then present graphical causal modelling as an effective theorising tool.This includes a step-by-step guide to building causal models and examples of their use in different stages of the research process.We explain how causal models help develop method-agnostic representations of research problems using directed acyclic graphs, identify potential confounders, and construct alternative interpretations of data.Finally, we discuss their limitations and challenges for adoption by the HCI community.