[WiS Seminar Series]: On being challenged

Location (Talk): Bush House (S)5.01 (Centre Block)
Location (Networking session): Bush House Level 5 South Communal space (Centre Block)

Abstract

Until now, the development of mobile, wearable and other future technologies has been largely research and innovation-led. But changes are afoot. Similar to many other academic disciplines, there is growing pressure for the field of computer science to become more challenge-led. By this is meant carrying out research that addresses societal needs, such as global warming, through developing more sustainable and ethically accountable computing. In turn, it means being more mindful of its aspirations and more responsible for the methods used. However, embracing such a paradigm shift is likely to be far more difficult and demanding than ever before. In her talk, Professor Yvonne Rogers will discuss the new dilemmas and challenges facing those who wish to embark on this new way of framing and doing research.

 

Biography

Yvonne Rogers is a Professor of Interaction Design, the director of UCLIC and a deputy head of the Computer Science department at University College London. Her research interests are in the areas of interaction design, human-computer interaction and ubiquitous computing. A central theme of her work is concerned with designing interactive technologies that augment humans. She is particularly interested in how humane applications of AI and smart technologies can be developed that benefit and disrupt society. She was awarded the ACM SIGCHI Lifetime Achievement Research Award in 2022, “presented to individuals for outstanding contributions to the study of human-computer interaction.” In the same year, she was elected as a fellow of the Royal Society as “one of the leaders who created the field of Ubiquitous Computing”. She was also awarded a chair of excellence from the University of Bremen (2020-2024).

How to join

Please register for the seminar in advance. This is due to limited room capacity and catering.