User Heaven or Techno Hell:Where are intelligent, adaptive technologies leading us

Near-invisible computing can be embedded into many of the ordinary items we carry and the spaces we inhabit. Sensing and processing technologies are becoming smaller and more powerful. Our daily activities, physical conditions and even emotions can be tracked and stored as data.

The pervasive computing vision is one of a world where our immediate environment constantly adapts to us, allowing us to move safely and seamlessly through our lives. Our homes, workplaces, cars, hospitals and clothing will predict our needs and respond to them instantly.

Will this vision mean more convenience or less privacy? Are we prepared to trust the system to know what’s good for us? Come and learn more about the science behind these technological advances, and discuss the perils and potentials of this new world of computing.

Speakers:

Alois Ferscha, Institute for Pervasive Computing, Johannes Kepler University, Linz
Jeremy Pitt, Intelligent Systems and Networks Group, Imperial College London
Oli Mival, Institute for Informatics and Digital Innovation, Edinburgh Napier University

Facilitator

Rebecca Mileham, author of Powering Up: are computer games changing our lives? (Wiley).

Event organised by:
PerAda Project, Institute for Informatics and Digital Innovation, Edinburgh Napier University

This event is free