Centre overview
| Research Approach | Our Impact | Our Purpose | Teaching Methods |
The Centre for Creative and Social Informatics explores the complex relationships between people, communities, organizations, and technology, employing diverse methods such as speculative design, social media analysis, and physiological data. We engage with European and international research programs, as well as national and local organizations and governments. Our research covers a broad range of critical areas. We are a proud member of the iSchools network. Our current research areas fall into nine broad areas but are not limited to these –
- Interactive Audio
- Creativity, Sustainable UX and Design
- Human Robot Interaction
- Digital Literacies and Technology Impact
- Human Information Behaviours and Practices
- Social Rights, Access and Education
- Games and Immersive Experience Production
- Information Governance and Ethics
- Generative Media and AI
Our group tackles challenges in information access and digital services for marginalized communities, focusing on gender, immigration status, and chronic health conditions. We assess digital literacy among youth and new workforce entrants, exploring impacts on the Scottish economy. Using AI, large language models, and machine learning, we enhance information access while addressing online safety and privacy through participatory research and risk analysis. Ethical considerations in metadata and AI systems are central to our work. Internationally, we emphasize the human aspects of IT development, collaborating with partners across the UK, Europe, North America, and Brazil, supported by various organizations.
On the design and technology side we conduct state-of-the-art research in user-centric design issues of multiple application scenarios with AI and advanced technologies. Examples are developing models for Human-Machine Interaction, multimodal methods in Human-Robot Interaction, Human-Computer Interaction design studies. Another focus is on complex and big data analyses using a mix of computational social sciences and computational linguistic, computer-supported and automated methods such as data visualization approaches in Creative Informatics or sentiment and topic analyses for news media and social media content. Respectively, the research group integrates interdisciplinary discussions around responsible AI, responsible Design and develops teaching and training approaches for these fields. Within centre, we have a range of innovative technologies that are available for use in research, development, and innovation, including 3D printing, robotics, and more.
Research approach
The centre's approach to research is primarily human centred with respect to the application and use of technology at both the social and individual level. We follow a human centred approach to both the macro examination of the complex socio-technical elements of the interactions between people, society, information, and technology. We also follow human centred approach for the micro study of a wide spectrum of designing interactions of technology-driven or supported community and cultural events, places, and applications.
We pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic research environment that nurtures researchers at all career stages, as evidenced by our commendable performance in the REF2021 results. Our research is multi-disciplinary and we are always interested in working with experts in other fields.
Our Impact
The Centre for Creative and Social Informatics is dedicated to advancing research and teaching at the intersection of technology and society. By employing innovative methodologies such as speculative design and social media analysis, we explore the intricate relationships between individuals, communities, and organisations. Our research addresses critical issues, including digital literacy, social rights, and the ethical implications of AI, particularly for marginalised groups. Through collaborative efforts with international partners and local organisations, we enhance information access and promote responsible design practices.
Our commitment to education is reflected in our development of interdisciplinary teaching approaches that prepare students and professionals to navigate the complexities of modern technology. We leverage cutting-edge tools, including microcontrollers and robotics, to foster hands-on learning experiences. By nurturing researchers at all career stages and emphasising the human aspects of IT development, we contribute to a dynamic academic environment that not only drives innovation but also positively impacts society. Our achievements, highlighted by our strong performance in REF2021, underscore our role as a leader in the field, committed to shaping a more equitable and informed digital future.
Our purpose
The main purpose of the Centre for Creative and Social Informatics is to explore and understand the complex relationships between people, communities, organizations, and technology. The centre employs diverse research methods and cutting-edge technologies to address critical areas such as human-technology interaction, digital literacy, information access for marginalized communities, and ethical considerations in AI. It fosters dynamic, interdisciplinary collaborations and contributes to national and international research programs, aiming to enhance digital services, promote responsible design, and advance knowledge through innovative research and development.
Teaching methods
The centres approach to teaching and learning is grounded on the belief that learning should be achieved through innovation, experimentation, and originality (Piaget et al, 1980). Specifically, an approach based on constructionism (Papert, 1993) which acknowledges that learning is a reconstruction of knowledge rather than a transmission - the learner constructs knowledge through objects, or ‘learning through doing’.