The Human-Computer Interaction group at the University of Zurich.

We strive to design great experiences with computing and create technologies that benefit people in everyday life. To do so, we take an approach to research that goes beyond interface design and usability. We focus on gaining a deep, contextualized understanding of the relationship between people and computing technologies from which to draw insight.

In our research we apply approaches drawn from a variety of fields, with a focus on qualitative methods such as interviews for data collection or affinity diagramming for data analysis. Building upon a thorough understanding of a problem space, we iteratively develop designs and systems that offer people new interactive experiences.

Currently, we are working in areas such as supporting, cross-cultural communication, developing tangible methods for data analysis, facilitating design in sustainable HCI and sharing economy, improving interaction with home automation technologies, and designing to support mental health.

We take a hands-on approach to learning that is reflected in our teaching. Our courses are highly interactive in nature and incorporate projects, discussion, and in-class activities to give students the opportunity to put knowledge and skills to use.