Responsible Design Through Human-Centred Methodologies

The aim of the workshop will be to collectively explore the design of digital solutions within the contexts, understandings, and ground realities of the people they cater to. The first ten minutes of the session will establish guiding principles for the development of transparent and accountable technology — the need to be inclusive, collaborative, and grounded in the realities of the people it seeks to serve. The remaining time will involve group-based activities, wherein participants will build a smartphone-based application concept that addresses a COVID-related problem of their choosing. Activities will draw from human centred design to engage key aspects of ‘openness’ in technology design. This includes framing an effective challenge statement, gaining a nuanced understanding of the causes and effects that operate within that challenge, understanding the people being served, and building ideas that respond to each aspect of the challenge in an effective manner.