James Landay from Stanford University spoke at MBZUAI about human-centered AI design, arguing current approaches focus too narrowly on the user level. He proposed considering user, community, and societal impacts at all stages of AI design, not as an afterthought. Landay emphasized the need for collaboration and cooperation to implement this approach effectively. Why it matters: This highlights the growing emphasis on ethical AI development and the importance of considering broader societal impacts in the design of AI systems within the region.
MBZUAI held its inaugural Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) Symposium in Abu Dhabi, focusing on the human and societal impacts of AI. The event, led by Professor Elizabeth Churchill, featured workshops and keynotes from figures like Google's Matias Duarte. Participants collaborated to address critical design aspects of human-AI interaction and co-author a book. Why it matters: The symposium highlights the increasing importance of human-centered design in AI development, ensuring AI tools are useful, desirable, and beneficial for society in the GCC region and beyond.
Elizabeth Churchill, chair and professor of human-computer interaction at MBZUAI, emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between people, technologies, and technical infrastructures, especially in the age of AI. Drawing inspiration from psychology, sociology, anthropology, and human factors, she believes HCI can help understand people's needs and how to design usable, useful, and delightful technologies. She focuses on augmenting human potential and experience through technology, while also addressing the motivations of those who misuse technology. Why it matters: This highlights MBZUAI's focus on human-centered AI design and ethical considerations, aligning technology with human needs and societal well-being.
This article discusses a talk on "Assistive Augmentation," designing human-computer interfaces to augment human abilities. Examples include 'AiSee' for blind users, 'Prospero' for memory training, and 'MuSS-Bits' for deaf users to feel music. Suranga Nanayakkara from the National University of Singapore will present the talk, highlighting insights from psychology, human-centered machine learning, and design thinking. Why it matters: Such assistive technologies can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities and extend human capabilities.
MBZUAI is hosting the third AI Quorum of the academic year, focusing on the future of human-computer interaction (HCI) in the age of AI. The event gathers researchers and practitioners from various disciplines and institutions, including University College London, Apple, and Google. The workshop aims to spur AI research and promote understanding of AI's potential for social good, with previous Quorums focusing on federated learning and statistics. Why it matters: This interdisciplinary focus on HCI at MBZUAI highlights the UAE's commitment to shaping the ethical and practical integration of AI into everyday life.
A panel discussion was hosted at MBZUAI in collaboration with the Manara Center for Coexistence and Dialogue. The discussion centered on the potential of multimodal machine intelligence for human-centered applications, particularly in health and wellbeing. USC Professor Shrikanth Narayanan spoke on creating trustworthy and inclusive AI that considers protected variables. Why it matters: This signals MBZUAI's interest in exploring ethical AI development and its applications for societal good, potentially driving research and policy initiatives in the region.
MBZUAI President Professor Eric Xing discussed AI's potential to augment human capabilities and the responsibility of AI researchers in shaping future leaders. Xing's background includes professorships at Carnegie Mellon University, leadership at Petuum Inc., and directorship of the Center for Machine Learning and Health. He also held visiting positions at Stanford University and Facebook Inc. Why it matters: The emphasis on responsible AI development and education aligns with the UAE's broader strategy to become a leader in ethical and human-centric AI.
KAUST hosted the "Human-Machine Networks and Intelligent Infrastructures" conference, co-organized by Prof. Jeff Shamma and Asst. Prof. Meriem Laleg. The conference explored the blend of engineered devices and human elements in large-scale systems like smart grids. Keynote speaker Dr. Pramod Khargonekar discussed cyber-physical-social systems and emerging trends. Why it matters: The conference highlights the growing importance of understanding the interplay between AI, infrastructure, and human behavior in the development of smart cities and intelligent systems in the region.