Monthly Archive for May, 2009

What: Student Advisory Group with Jan and Gian
Why: To create a new HCDE Student Group
When: Tuesday, June 2nd at 3:30PM
Where: HCDE Conference Room

The Department of Human Centered Design & Engineering is currently seeking applications for a 20-hour/week Research Assistant (RA) Summer 2009 (6/16 – 8/15) to work on a joint project between the CSC Lab and the Communicative Practices in Virtual Workspaces (CPVW) research group and to support activities in the CSC Lab. Primary responsibilities for the RA include:

1. Reading and coding chat logs of a geographically distributed, remotely operated astronomical observatory. RA will use Atlas.ti for coding qualitative data and must be prepared to quickly gain familiarity with the software package.

2. Working closely with the Investigators in iteratively developing and refining coding categories over time in order to answer research questions and sub-questions.

Secondary responsibilities for the RA include:

1. Keep CSC Lab tidy and maintain inventory of all lab resources.

2. Manage check-in/check-out of equipment.

3. Train students on use of Atlas.it QDA software (minimal).

4. Troubleshoot equipment and software.

5. Participate in CSC Lab group meetings (Wednesdays 4:30pm to 6pm).

The ideal candidate will have some previous experience coding qualitative research design. Experience using chatrooms and a passing interest in learning about science, such as astronomy is desirable.

Please send questions to Charlotte Lee (cplee@u.washington.edu) or Mark Zachry (zachry@u.washington.edu Interested applicants should email a letter of interest and resume to Charlotte Lee (cplee@u.washington.edu) by Friday, June 5.

Upcoming PhD Final Exam
Initial Presentation open to the community

Who: Matt Eliot

Logistics:
Friday, 5/29,
10:30-12:00
HCDE Conference Room

Thesis Title:
Investigating a Novel User Experience Outcome: Psychological Well-being through Mediated Self-Reflection

Abstract:
This study investigated the potential development of products that “everyday” users could employ to positively and purposefully impact their well-being. Inspired by qualitative research conducted at the early stages of New Product Development, this study used creativity-based methods which invited participants to imagine innovative product ideas, including specific product functions and features that could carry out these functions. Study sessions were audio-taped and the transcripts from these sessions were coded and subjected to qualitative thematic analysis.

This analysis resulted in seven qualitative themes describing participants’ unmet needs in relation to aspirational product use, their preferences for how these needs could be met, and their concerns about the usability of these products. The two primary qualitative themes describe participants performing self-reflective activities mediated by a proactive product which was capable of scaffolding their reflection in ways that supported 1) the attainment of goal states and 2) the creation of a coherent life story. Additional themes describe participants’ use of the products to extend their perceptual and cognitive abilities and their concerns about possible usability issues with the products they designed.

This dissertation reports on the theoretical framework supporting this research, including differing theories on well-being as a psychological construct and the human use of objects for emotional regulation and meaning-making. The methods are then described, situated in the intersection of product development research and qualitative research. After reporting the qualitative themes, this dissertation concludes with a synthesis of findings with an eye toward building an understanding of the relevance of the findings to the New Product Development process and an assessment of the value of the methods in terms of designing products to support users’ needs for self-reflection.

University of Washington Information School

Position Title
Temporary Transcriber

Anticipated start date: Immediately
Anticipated end date: TBD

Position Description
A research team led by Mike Crandall and Karen Fisher of The University of Washington Information School, with support from the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is examining the impact of free access to computers and the Internet on the well-being of individuals, families, and communities. As part of a mixed methods study, researchers are conducting case studies at four library systems around the country, including interviews with library users, library staff, peer agencies’ staff, government officials and community business members.
The Impact of Free Access project is looking for individuals to begin work almost immediately transcribing research participant interviews. The workload will be at least 19.5 hours per week, depending upon summer enrollment. Position will continue until all transcription work is complete.

This position is open to all qualified University of Washington students. Undergraduate and graduate level students will be compensated at the hourly rate of $16/hr. This position is not benefits eligible. Questions regarding compensation should be directed to Ulibee Parker, Human Resources Assistant uparker@washington.edu or 206-543-3396.

Required Qualifications
• Exceptional English language skills – both verbal and written.
• Strong typing skills with both speed and accuracy.

Desired Qualification
• Prior transcription experience.

Pay
$16.00 per hour

To Apply
1. Please include a brief cover letter describing your skills and experience relevant to position.
2. Attach a current resume that includes your work history and academic accomplishments.

Please submit all application materials to Ulibee Parker at iApply@u.washington.edu or to Mary Gates Hall, Suite 370, no later than June 5th at noon. All candidates will be contacted within two weeks of closing date.

Note: This job classification is governed by a negotiated labor contract and is subject to union shop provisions. For more information about union shop provisions, visit: www.washington.edu/admin/hr/jobs/apl/union-info.html

The University of Washington is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and covered veterans are encouraged to apply.

Ulibee Parker
HR Assistant
Information School
University of Washington
Box 352840
Seattle, WA 98195
Ph: 206-543-3396
Fx:206-616-3152