Iris Howley is a computer scientist and educator at the intersection of human-computer interaction, artificial intelligence and the learning sciences, with an added interest of textiles and computing. Her research, exploring how users’ understanding of their complex systems impacts their decisions, also offers insights into the most beneficial means of doing so with computing learners as well.

Howley is further driven by a goal of inclusivity in the classroom which is reflected in her evidenced-based active learning and project-based learning philosophy. It is an exciting time to be a computer scientist, making it an exciting time to spread the wealth of approaches, applications and problem domains of the field to the future generations of computer scientists. 

Areas of Expertise

Human-AI interaction, human-computer interaction, electronic textiles

Education

2015 — Doctor of Philosophy from Carnegie Mellon University

2012 — Master of Science from Carnegie Mellon University

2008 — Bachelor of Science from Drexel University

Courses Recently Taught

Digital data is increasingly embedded in the physical world, including the human body. Electronic textiles (eTextiles) extend interactivity beyond screens, and this studio-style course introduces students to developing their own wearable interactive technology. After completing a series of introductory projects, students propose and design an original eTextiles artifact—examples include a sweatshirt with light-up bicycle turn signals, a wall banner that displays room air quality, or a plush toy that plays a tune when the lights turn on—using sewable Arduino-compatible inputs, outputs, and a development board. Along the way, students learn introductory computer programming, modular arithmetic, basic electronic circuits, paper prototyping, and craft techniques such as embroidery and sewing, with an emphasis on iterative design, documentation, and reflective critique. Topics include: embroidery and sewing; modular arithmetic; electronic circuits; paper prototyping; inputs and outputs; Arduino programming; and personal projects. No prior programming or sewing experience is required. Offered every semester.

This course introduces the design and evaluation of interactive computing systems through a user-centered approach. Drawing on computer science, cognitive and social sciences, and interaction design methods, students learn to identify design problems, study existing systems, explore design opportunities and tradeoffs, evaluate and improve designs, and communicate effectively to diverse audiences. Topics include affordances and signifiers, interface metaphors and controls, contextual inquiry, affinity diagramming, prototyping techniques (paper, low-fidelity, and high-fidelity), usability testing, and ethical considerations in computing. Students complete multiple design projects emphasizing iterative refinement and critique, culminating in a semester-long user experience (UX) design project that integrates research, prototyping, evaluation, and presentation. Readings include foundational texts such as Norman's The Design of Everyday Things and contemporary HCI research. Prerequisite: one prior programming course.