URBAN Workshop Series Returns with a Focus on Community-Based Technology Design

The URBAN Workshop Series is back, bringing together researchers to explore innovative approaches to urban challenges. The next session, titled “Community-Based Approaches for Technology Design and Development,” will take place on February 21, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, at the ITI facilities in the Hub Criativo do Beato.

Led by Paulo Bala, a Postdoctoral Researcher at ITI, this workshop will highlight human-centered methods in technology development, particularly in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), games, and eXtended Reality. Bala, who holds a Ph.D. in Digital Media and has contributed to several EU and FCT-funded projects, will share insights on engaging communities in research and design processes.

As public engagement becomes increasingly crucial for securing research funding, this session will provide participants with key methodologies and best practices for involving stakeholders in their projects. The workshop will feature two main components: a presentation on fundamental concepts and methods for community engagement in research, followed by a hands-on exercise where attendees will ideate ways to integrate stakeholder involvement into future LARSyS projects, fostering collaboration across research units.