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Lecture: 'Advances in accessible technologies'

Lecture: 'Advances in accessible technologies'

This talk will present four initiatives related to the development of accessible technologies: PICTOS, LECTOGRAM, AWEN and NAM. All of them are based on an inclusive research paradigm and are aimed at promoting cognitive accessibility and/or fostering autonomy in people with specific support needs.

About the Speakers

  • Herbert Spencer González
    • Director of the Master's in Architecture and Design (Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaíso, Chile) and MDes in Interaction Design (Carnegie Mellon University). His current focus is on cognitive accessibility, particularly important in the context of emerging technologies. Through design, he seeks to understand and improve communication in a world mediated by AI and autonomous agents. His work is a constant exploration where design acts as a bridge between technology and human experiences, aiming to empower humans based on their culture and dignity. He reflects on ethics and coexistence in a design that is based on the human condition and can adapt in a world of constant technological change. He currently leads the PICTOS initiative.
  • Izaskun Álvarez-Aguado
    • Associate Professor (University of the Americas, Chile), Director of the Research Center on Subjectivities and Policies of Equality (NESP, Chile), PhD in Psychopedagogy, Psychology of Education, and Specific Didactics (University of the Basque Country). With extensive experience in studying the impact of aging on individuals with intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, and neurodegenerative disorders. Her research focuses on exploring the potential of technology to improve the quality of life and self-determination in people experiencing diverse aging processes. Interested in the development of inclusive research with an impact on public policies. She leads state-funded projects by FONDECYT, FONDEF, and NAM on topics related to diverse aging and technological support.
  • Vanessa Vega
    • Associate Professor (Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaíso, Chile), Associate Researcher at the Millennium Institute for Care Research (Chile). PhD in Disability Research (University of Salamanca). Currently, she directs the Research and Innovation Center on Accessibility and Inclusion. Her interests are related to the study of care and independent living in individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities through the design of assistive and supportive technologies. She is a pioneer in implementing the inclusive research paradigm in Latin America and has led several research projects with significant external funding.