UCLIC Research Seminar Series

Designing for active office work - Ida Damen
How can we sit less and move more? The focus of this talk is on the role of interaction design in the office environment to reduce physical inactivity. Not only can we find a considerable amount of sitting in this context, but it is also prone to change. The way we work has changed significantly over the years and interaction technology has played a major role. On the one hand, technological advancements have improved several aspects of our work lives. We are more flexible than ever in when, where, and how we work. On the other hand, technology has restricted us more and more to our desks. Technologies, in that sense, present the paradox of being both confining and liberating at the same time. 
 
This seminar, Ida Damen will present her dissertation research entitled 'Designing for active office work'. In her work she used exploratory case studies, empirical evaluations and provocative explorations to bring valuable qualitative and quantitative insights into office workers' behaviour in relation to these interactive artifacts and the underlying ways of activating office work they support. Ida will discuss the role of technology in stimulating and facilitating an active and vital office environment. 

Warm Technology by design - Rens Brankaert
The healthcare sector is under pressure. There is a vital role for both designers and engineers to provide concrete new solutions to help tackle increasingly difficult challenges. Warm technology is a perspective for design that puts people first, in particular, people living with dementia. Currently, more than 55 million people live with dementia worldwide. Dementia is distressing for everyone who must deal with it. The associated cognitive changes can have a significant impact on day-to-day communication, making participation in social interactions increasingly challenging. With warm technology, the focus is put on improving the quality of life and wellbeing of people with dementia. In this concept, technology is used as a means, not a goal. The technology is developed not only for, but together with, people with dementia and their environment. Warm technology ensures that the needs of both the people needing and providing care are met, thus enabling a positive transformation in health.

*The seminar speakers are visiting UCL. This is a hybrid event where attendees can join either in-person or online via Zoom (https://ucl.zoom.us/j/97216575270)