HCCS Hosts Seminar on Understanding HCI Research: Methods and Frameworks

The Human-Centered Computing and Society (HCCS) Research Group organized a seminar titled “Understanding HCI Research: Methods and Frameworks” on 5 March 2026, bringing together students, researchers, and faculty members interested in Human–Computer Interaction (HCI) and technology research. The session aimed to introduce participants to key research methods and frameworks used in HCI and to provide practical insights into how such approaches are applied in real-world research.

The seminar was delivered by Rahat Jahangir Rony, an HCI researcher nearing completion of his PhD at Cardiff University, UK. He is also an affiliated external researcher and coordinator at the Design Inclusion and Access Lab (DIAL) at North South University and previously worked as a researcher at BRAC University. Drawing from nearly nine years of research experience, he shared insights from his research journey and discussed how HCI focuses on understanding how people interact with technology and how systems can be designed to support everyday human experiences. He also shared storytelling from his field research, including examples from Gates Foundation supported projects, his experience measuring driver stress, and the challenges of adopting technology in resource constrained environments. He explained key research approaches such as contextual research, qualitative methods, and semi structured interviews, emphasizing how these methods help researchers understand users, their culture, and social environments when designing meaningful technological solutions.

The seminar concluded with an interactive question-and-discussion session, where participants engaged with the speaker on practical aspects of research. The discussion included topics such as how students can begin their research journey, ethical considerations when collecting data from minors, challenges that may arise during semi-structured interviews, and ways to ensure participants feel comfortable when sharing sensitive information.

Overall, the session provided valuable insights into HCI research methodologies, frameworks, and responsible research practices, encouraging participants to approach technology research with a stronger understanding of human needs and real-world contexts.

🎥 Recording of the full seminar: https://youtu.be/93C2P3AWfBg