About Us

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Have you ever found yourself checking your phone without knowing why? Or losing your cool during an online argument? If so, you're not alone, and these habits are no accident. Online products are designed to draw people back as often as possible, keep them hooked for as long as possible, and encourage them to disclose information along the way. But designs to maximize engagement and information disclosure are not always aligned with human wellbeing.

The User Empowerment Lab examines people’s frustrations with the systems they use, including: distraction, compulsion, outrage, information overload, lack of privacy, and an inability to connect with others. And we create proof-of-concept systems that support more meaningful human experiences.

Are you excited about the potential of technology but dissatisfied with the status quo? Join us today.

Research Areas

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Teens and Technology
- Present
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Social Media and Human Wellbeing
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Screentime Tools and Parental Controls
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Manipulative Design and Dark Patterns
- Present
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Video Games and Kids
- Present
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Technology and Parenting
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Digital Wellbeing
- Present
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Children's Technology
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Artificial Intelligence and Human Wellbeing
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Recent Papers

Let's Play! Digital and Analog Play Patterns between Preschoolers and Parents

Alexis Hiniker Sharon Heung Sungsoo Hong Julie A. Kientz

Human Factors in Computing Systems (CHI), 2018

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The Stamp Plate and the Kicking Chair: Playful Productivity for Mealtime in Preschools

Ying-Yu Chen Kelda Baljon Bonnie Tran Daniela K. Rosner Alexis Hiniker

Interaction Design and Children (IDC), 2018

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Why Doesn't It Work? Voice-Driven Interfaces and Young Children's Communication Repair Strategies

Yi Cheng Kate Yen Yeqi Chen Sijin Chen Alexis Hiniker

Interaction Design and Children (IDC), 2018

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