Abstract:
In the context of a complex sociotechnical system, how can a designer effectively evaluate and predict the potential consequences of design interventions? Furthermore, how can a design system actively respond to and accommodate the choices made by its users? During her presentation, Meichun Liu will offer insights into using agent-based modeling and simulation to explore the dynamics between hybrid agents, which comprise both humans and technological artifacts, under different design interventions. She will also share findings regarding how individuals respond differently to social influences mediated by these artifacts based on their personality traits. By creating a system that adjusts to the decisions made by its members, designers invite users to co-create an environment where they play an active role as participants in a sociotechnical network.
Bio:
Meichun Liu is an Assistant Professor in Industrial Design at the University of Washington. Her work explores the intersections between mass production and handcraft, the tangible and the digital, as well as the individual and the systemic. Some of her work focuses on smart crafts, which involve integrating craft materials and processes with digital technologies to enhance sensory experiences and interactions. Her current research delves into how technological artifacts mediate human experiences and interactions. At the individual level, her research investigates the persuasive effects of digitally enhanced artifacts on human behavior and decision-making. At the system level, she employs techniques such as agent-based modeling and simulation to examine the emergent properties resulting from design interventions in complex adaptive systems. Dr. Liu earned her PhD in Design from North Carolina State University, USA; a Master of Design from the University of Alberta, Canada; and a bachelor's degree in Industrial Design from National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan. In addition to her academic pursuits, she is an accomplished industrial designer, having received more than a dozen design and innovation awards, including iF, Red Dot, G-Mark, and Franz awards.
Visitor’s Website:
https://art.washington.edu/people/meichun-liu
Sponsors:
School of Art & Design Visitors Committee
Doctoral program in Informatics
Accessibility: The Art & Design Visitors Series endeavors to be accessible to all. If you have questions or would like to request an accessibility accommodation, please email art@illinois.edu.
