Dr. Allison Druin and the Human Computer Interaction Lab believe that children should have a voice in making new technology for kids. Children's ideas need to be heard throughout the entire technology design process. Therefore, in 1998, they began a unique technology design team. Seven children, ages seven to eleven, join with researchers from computer science, education, art, robotics, and other disciplines, twice a week. Together they have become an intergenerational, interdisciplinary design team. The team pursues projects, writes papers and creates new technologies. They have a chance to change technology, but more importantly we have a chance to change the life of a child. Every time a new technology enables a child to do something they never dreamed of, there are new possibilities for the future. |