Hello.
In collaboration with the Centre for Inclusive Design, Australia,
SMARTlab has at heart a 'inclusive design' concept. By designing for sections of society whose interests and needs are least served by off-the-shelf technologies - e.g. women, young people at risk and people with disabilities - we aim to create socially inclusive, sustainable projects and solutions of use to all.
Ethos
SMARTlab's ethos is simple: every project is grounded in a community, culture or research environment. Led by Professor Lizbeth Goodman, the team spends time getting to know the local people, issues, concerns and needs before involving the larger group of experts, who may include artists, computer scientists, medical and social care professionals, educators and scholars. The larger, integrated cohort then develops new technology tools with real social impact, whether for individuals, for groups or for wider international aims.
On-going Development
29 September 2018: SMARTlab took part in the reopening of The Station (Heritage Old Railway Station) in Newcastle Australia, in collaboration with Renew Newcastle and a team of interdisciplinary artists, technologists and researchers with a vision to make real social and cultural impact in the city. Dr Manisha Amin, Dr Zi Siang See, Dr Donovan Jones, Dr Shanna Fealy, Wooi Har Ooi (Haireena) and a number of regional/international collaborators demonstrated a range of VR/AR and emerging technology projects with the community (video).
Research and Collaboration
SMARTlab selects projects and teams on the basis of ethical concerns, social engagement and the ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary groups, as well as for the originality and potential impact of the research, in basic and applied terms. In every context, the aim is to effect knowledge transfer within the team, between teams and local communities, and within broader academic and industry relations
More news and information on on-going global development and contribution of SMARTlab
