Human Interface Design for Access to Computers and Networked Information

GER-9553458 Carroll Virginia Tech seeks to establish a Graduate Research Traineeships program to encourage women, minorities, and persons with disabilities (Trainees) to pursue the PhD in Computer Science with specialization in Human-Computer Interaction and Networked Information. Unique program features include: * inter-institutional recruiting arrangements with Norfolk State University and North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (historically black universities) as 'feeder' schools, and an aggressive plan for retention of Trainees; * practical experience and research in five different settings (1) three new HCI labs -- encompassing interactive technologies, usability evaluation methodology, and networked multimedia information, all created under a recently awarded NSF Research Infrastructure grant; (2) a wide range of development and experimentation in Computer Science curricula, course content, and instructional technology, supported by a recently awarded NSF Educational Infrastructure grant; (3) the Accessible Computer Laboratory, Virginia Tech's computer facility for disabled students, created and managed by the Computer Science Department; (4) the Interaction Consulting Service, and outreach program to help the University community learn, adapt, and apply the newest HCI design and evaluation technologies to their development of software and courseware; (5) the Blacksburg Electronic Village, an ambitious community- networking project; * liaisons with foreign institutions and the computer industry to provide opportunities for international and industrial training experiences.