Shaping the future: HCI research and conference at the University of Siegen

Shaping the future: HCI research and conference at the University of Siegen

Siegen, Deutschland - On April 2 and 3, 2025, the important “German Pre-Chi Conference” took place at the University of Siegen, which serves as an important platform for German-speaking researchers in the field of human-computer interaction (HCI). The conference, which focuses on the upcoming International ACM Chi conference in Yokohama in May, attracts around 100 participants, including relevant actors from research and industry. Professor Dr. Marc Hassenzahl leads HCI research at the University of Siegen and emphasizes the goal of this discipline: to design the interaction between humans and technology in such a way that it is both pleasant and socially tolerated.

hci researches the design and use of computer technologies at the interface between humans and computers. The findings come from various disciplines, including computer science, psychology, ergonomics and sociology. This interdisciplinary examination is crucial to understand how people interact with computers and user interfaces, and is therefore an essential part of modern technology research. Research at the University of Siegen includes topics such as virtual reality, social robotics and artificial intelligence.

research focus

One of the main objectives of the research projects is to create emotional closeness over distance and to promote the autonomy of people with health restrictions. Cooperation with industrial partners such as Siemens and Sanofi as well as with open source and grass root movements, for example the food sharing community. Many of the projects receive funding from the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF).

In addition, the scientists from the University of International are involved, as a current study of computer clubs in Palestinian refugee camps shows. Professors Volker Wulf and Marc Hassenzahl are part of the renowned Sigchi Academy, which underlines their importance in the HCI community. Regular publications at international conferences and in specialist journals are part of the commitment of the faculty, which contributes to the further development of the HCI through their research activities.

courses and promoting young talent

With a specific master's degree in Human-Computer Interaction, which is the first of its kind in Germany and is offered entirely in English, the University of Siegen positions itself as a pioneer in promoting young talent. At the moment, 145 students have been enrolled in this innovative course, many of them actively work in research projects or do their doctorate in the university departments. The training in this area combines theoretical basics with practice -oriented approaches, which gives students an optimal introduction to the diverse professional fields.

The continuous relevance and growth of HCI research, also at the University of Siegen, show the growing importance of human-computer interaction in today's technology-shaped society. The development of effective human-machine interfaces is becoming increasingly important because machines and computer technologies are increasingly integrating into people's daily life. This focus in research opens up new perspectives for the design of future technologies and their application in the social context.