Freesoul Kofi El Shabazz-Thompson

Contributed significantly to design research initiatives, focusing on user-centered methodologies and data-driven insights.

• Led the development of user study protocols for the 'Inner Ear' project, ensuring rigorous data collection and ethical considerations.
• Conducted comprehensive user interviews and generated a thematic guide to effectively elicit actionable insights.
• Co-authored several ACM published papers, demonstrating strong research and writing capabilities.
• Served as the primary liaison between users and the research team, facilitating seamless communication and project progression.

Developed and delivered engaging curricula to foster artistic and design skills in students.

• Developed comprehensive curriculum for art and design courses, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application.
• Instructed students in creating self-defined artistic direction, fostering creativity and independent thought.
• Taught practical design and art-making skills, equipping students with hands-on capabilities.

Pioneered research and development of interactive voice assistants for critical applications in home health.

• Researched, designed, and developed interactive voice assistants (IVAs) to support home health aides within the COALA Lab.
• Conducted user interviews and focus groups to generate critical insights for IVA solutions, enhancing user experience and utility.
• Performed qualitative analysis through thematic coding, deriving meaningful patterns from user data.
• Performed and managed similar roles on other studies and design teams within the HCII, including the Tech Solidarity Lab and Augmented Design Capability Studio.

Contributed to the development and refinement of advanced AI language models.

• Trained AI systems (Chat GPT) to generate long-form summaries, enhancing model accuracy and efficiency.

Led a capstone project involving the design and testing of virtual cattle containment solutions.

• Researched, designed, prototyped, and tested software and hardware for virtual cattle containment, delivering a comprehensive solution for Raitong Organics Farm in Sisaket, Thailand.

Guided students through design processes, emphasizing interdisciplinary and socially conscious approaches.

• Co-developed 'Art, Making & Anti-Racism' curriculum, promoting critical thinking and social awareness through design.
• Guided students in conceptualizing and developing innovative art and design projects.

Contributed to the research and development of lighter-than-air technology.

• Conducted research, design, rapid prototyping, and manufacturing activities for lighter-than-air technology projects.

Awarded for significant contributions to cultural and artistic initiatives.

Recognized for outstanding academic achievement and contributions within the School of Art and Sciences.

Awarded for exceptional academic performance and excellence upon graduation.

Received for an outstanding graduate thesis demonstrating significant research and scholarly contribution.

Granted for supporting international research endeavors.

Awarded to support graduate studies based on merit and academic potential.

Endowed fellowship recognizing academic excellence and promising research.

Awarded by GSEE for academic excellence and commitment to diversity and equity.

Secured research funding to support innovative projects.

Explored novel methods for sensing and representing domestic vibrations, contributing to the field of interactive systems.

Researched and presented findings on the potential and hurdles of integrating voice assistants into home healthcare, focusing on user support and practical application.