Engineering East, 303

Computer science has traditionally focused on functionality, aiming to provide features to accomplish tasks. This approach has led to digital platforms that surpass past generations' dreams in capability. Yet, this success has drawbacks: diminished control over personal information, increased loneliness and division, and careers increasingly governed by algorithms.



I propose shifting from functionality-based to experience-based computing. Instead of solely focusing on the digital platforms themselves, we should emphasize the experiences they create. By incorporating insights from psychology and game design into our understanding of user interactions and emotions, we can design platforms that genuinely enhance people's lives. This perspective sheds new light on long-standing issues in computer science, such as accessibility, social computing, and artificial intelligence.



Brian A. Smith is an Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Columbia University and directs the Computer-Enabled Abilities Laboratory (CEAL). His research focuses on reimagining digital platform design to better address human needs and enhance well-being. He takes a holistic approach, integrating insights from engineering, social sciences, design, and games. His work spans accessibility, social computing, augmented reality, and smart city infrastructure. Smith is a National Academy of Sciences Kavli Fellow and has received the NSF CAREER Award, Columbia Engineering’s Distinguished Faculty Teaching Award, and the Janette and Armen Avanessians Diversity Award.



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