Title:
Technology … Here, There, and Everywhere: The Need to Understand Human Interactions with Emerging Technologies
Abstract:
Emerging technologies are being developed at an unprecedented rate and are altering human behavior in new ways. This trend is expected to continue for the foreseeable future as society seeks to leverage the capabilities of machines and artificial intelligence (AI) to their fullest extent. Intelligent technologies offer many potential benefits, but also come with unique challenges. For example, some systems require shared responsibilities, occasional but unpredictable human intervention, and rapid real-time human decision-making. In addition, many technologies are being used by a diverse user demographic with varying levels of experience with technology, expectations, and abilities. In this presentation, Dr. Pitts will share insights from a series of research projects in his lab aimed at evaluating various pervasive technologies in transportation, work, and leisure environments and for different types of users. Findings from his research are contributing to the critical discussion on how to (re)design interfaces to support effective human-technology collaborations across many broad applications. This work is also helping to inform theories on human perception and performance, promote safety and efficiency in complex environments, and shape policies on universal design and accessibility.
Bio:
Dr. Brandon Pitts is an Assistant Professor in the School of Industrial Engineering and a Faculty Associate with the Center on Aging and the Life Course (CALC) at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN. He received his Ph.D. in Industrial and Operations Engineering from the University of Michigan (UM), Ann Arbor in 2016. Prior to his faculty appointment, he was a Research Fellow in the UM Center for Healthcare Engineering and Patient Safety (CHEPS). Dr. Pitts’ research areas include human factors engineering, human-automation/AI interaction, cyber-human-physical systems, interface design, and gerontechnology in complex transportation and work environments, i.e., driving and aviation. His research has been funded by several sponsors, such as the National Science Foundation (NSF), Department of Transportation (DOT), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR), and Ford Motor Company. Dr. Pitts has also received several honors and recognitions, including the 2023 Stephanie Binder Young Professional Award, a 2023 NSF CAREER award, and 1st place in the 2022 U.S. DOT Inclusive Design Challenge (IDC) for his team’s EASI RIDER autonomous vehicle innovation.