Accessibility

My current research is at the intersection of Accessibility and Human-Computer Interaction. I use qualitative and design research methods in my work.

Human-Computer Interaction and the Digital Divide

Detroit City is steeped in issues of race and inequalities, which have been exacerbated since the economic downturn resulting from the auto-crisis. My research here examines issues of the digital divide and the potential of technology to contribute to the revitalization of the city. Specifically, my work examined the benefits of transportation services to low-income populations in the city who otherwise have limited access to transportation infrastructures. Our lessons from these research projects suggest that while technological solutions offer short-term benefits, a long-term investment is required to positively impact communities of people in the city. Consequently, my work has also examined the potential and value of entrepreneurism in spurring socio-economic development.

Human-Computer Interaction and Development

My work in Human-Computer Interaction for Development (HCI4D) spans both, urban and rural settings in my native country of India. India, is in the midst of a technological upturn, with massive investments from the state and private players contributing to the scaling of technological infrastructures across the country. However, there is little work attempting to understand the societal impact of some of these measures which prompted my work in rural West Bengal and Bangalore city. In West Bengal, I studied the changing practices of community health-workers resulting from the adoption of mobile phone-based data collection services. On the other hand, in Bangalore, I studied the consequences of the states massive push for the adoption of digital financial services.