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Professor Karen Cochrane is an academic researcher specializing in Human-Computer Interaction, with a focus on developing strategies and technologies to assist and support individuals with disabilities. In the Embodied Computing Lab, we create wearable and tangible computing prototypes in mental health and accessibility. This includes conceptualizing and constructing wearable and tangible assistive technologies and establishing frameworks for healthcare practitioners, families, and individuals with disabilities to design and fabricate personalized devices collaboratively. Dr. Cochrane’s interests delve into the nuanced realms of soma design, autoethnography, and design fiction, all geared toward understanding both the needs of academics and underrepresented communities. This understanding of lived experiences enhances the development of robust prototypes and design methods within the HCI field, empowering these communities.

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Tangible Computing, Embodied Computing, Soma Design, Wearable Technologies, Mental Health and Emotional Regulation, Mindfulness and Stress Reduction Technologies, Assistive Technology