Lecturer Digital Life Somaya Ben Allouch argues for people-oriented approach in digital technology
16-01-2020
Due to the increasing digitization of society, the role of digital technology in innovations is becoming increasingly important. Lecturer Digital Life Dr Somaya Ben Allouch (Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences) argues for more attention to digital technology based on a people-oriented design approach, specifically in the field of health and well-being. Man and his digital, social and physical environment should be more central. She gave her lecture on January 14. 2020.
To ensure that digital technology makes a positive contribution to health, well-being and participation, it must first of all become clear what people want and need in that area. To gain insight into this, applied research into digital technology is important for social well-being.
Somaya Ben Allouch says in this context: 'Technology is constantly changing due to the context in which it is used. Including technological and human aspects is crucial for the sustainable use of technology in health and well-being. More attention is also needed for new technology and health evaluation strategies. Since technology is changing rapidly, evaluation processes are often lengthy and practice is unmanageable, applied research is necessary to develop new evaluation methods.'
Integrated research
The research of the Digital Life research group focuses on innovative, digital technology in which sensors, their data and creative methods for health, well-being and participation are developed and evaluated in collaboration with the business community and professional practice. Education, research and knowledge circulation are integrated and set up and implemented both within and outside the Amsterdam region.
Good examples of recent research projects are:
- EyeBeacons - a navigation app to support people with visual impairments to find their way safely and easily in public places.
- The Interactive Living Room - to allow people with dementia to live independently at home for longer.
- PAUL - stimulating the physical activity of city dwellers through the use of personalized app technology.
- Robot Pepper in the nursing home - to increase the quality of care in nursing homes.