Human-Computer Counter-Choreographies: new embodied methods and tools for development of web-based user-interfaces to improve well-being and equitable

I propose to conduct practice-based research into the development and analysis of new methodologies and tools that comprise embodied techniques from algorithmic performance to improve web-based interfaces' transparency and legibility to foster users' wellbeing. Central to this proposal is the understanding of embodiment as physical engagement grounded in and emerging out of everyday experience [18]. Body-centered approaches provide an in-depth understanding of the actions we perform online and can fundamentally inform and advocate for a system's transparency [19]. So far, I have built a body [20] of work that explores how choreographic methods provide alternative insights on how programming language structures shape the creation of our web environments. The work has materialized in various formats among these, live coding performances, which is when computer code often for audio-visual composition is written live [22] in front of an audience. By intersecting corporeal awareness and improvisational skills from live-coding practices, I aim in my PhD to develop a new design space for engaging with, challenging and reflecting upon user-interface paradigms. I will partner with the Wellcome Collection, who brings a thoroughly documented open-source and community-driven digital infrastructure to work with. Moreover, the Wellcome's focus on improving health and wellbeing has already led to unique strategies around transparency, accessibility, inclusion and outreach in the development of their web platforms. The work developed during the PhD will culminate in an online publication that will document the research and practice. It will operate as a toolkit with design resources, code assets, documentation on the tools made, such as browser plug-ins and extensions to be devised apace with the participatory design process at the Wellcome Collection. Ultimately, the toolkit will stimulate critical and reflexive conversation within the academic, cultural and industrial communities in the development of web-based user-interfaces fostering well-being and equitable algorithmic futures.