In the age of AI, computational systems are becoming deeply integrated into the fabric of people’s lives. The Human Centred Computing theme at the University of Oxford conducts research to examine the impacts that contemporary computing systems have on individuals, communities and societies, and to identify ways that these innovations can be ethical and better support human flourishing. We seek to understand the implications of emerging advancements in technology on both micro and macro scales, and highlight opportunities, challenges and risks in innovation.

We use a range of research methods and our findings promote various forms of positive impact, such as: fostering responsibility in the design, building, implementation and evaluation of new forms of computer systems; education and engagement; and frameworks for policy and governance. Our work is committed to the support of human autonomy and wellbeing, the promotion of human values, and the protection the natural environment. Under this broad remit we focus on several key themes and topic areas. These include:

• Ethical AI: transparency, regulation and accountability of algorithms in data-driven systems
• Responsible Innovation: governance and guidelines for the development of quantum computing, social robotics, ethical training for computational researchers and professionals
• User empowerment: age appropriate design, design and protection for children and other vulnerable citizens
• Ethical data architectures: autonomy and democracy of information sharing and access
• Digital well-being: privacy and security, attention economy, self-regulation