Who's in Control: Workshop exploring wearable interfaces

As computing becomes more integrated into our environment and dress, how is our behavior effected? How do we, as users, adapt to the technology and how does it begin to control us? The goal of the workshop is to introduce attendees to simple and accessible physical computing tools and sensors that will enable them to explore these questions and design non-traditional interface controllers and wearable technologies.

The workshop will start by creating simple wearable light pieces with copper tape and LEDs to introduce circuit basics and introductory ergonomics. We'll then move on to micro-controllers, working specifically with MakeyMakey controllers (https://makeymakey.com/), which will allow attendees to design novel physical interactions that control computer programs. If there's time, we'll experiment with a more advanced micro-controller and sensors called the Circuit Playground (https://learn.adafruit.com/introducing-circuit-playground/overview).

Attendees do not need any prior coding or physical computing knowledge to participate. This workshops is meant to be a true introduction to basics. Attendees will need to provide a laptop. If cost is prohibiting your attendance, please contact the organizers to inquire about a scholarship.

The workshop will be led by LeAnne Wagner. This workshop was originally presented at the 2018 PrimerEU Conference in Helsinki, Finland.