Communications of the ACM
From Eye Tracking to AI-Powered Learning
My journey through the intertwining worlds of computing and manufacturing began, unexpectedly, in the halls of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Under the guidance of my doctoral advisors, Professors George McConkie and Chris Wickens, my fascination with technology deepened. McConkie's pioneering work in eye tracking, particularly its application during reading and perception, highlighted the dynamic dance between technology and human behavior. Meanwhile, Wickens bridged theoretical constructs with real-world applications, notably in aviation and driving, revealing how intricate systems influence human attention.
Post-Ph.D., I joined Siemens Corporate Research in Princeton, NJ. My team and I consistently explored ways to empower individuals through advanced technology and digital innovation. However, one project stood out, crystallizing my commitment to bridging technology and humanity. We developed Assisted Visual Interactive Notepad (AVIN), an eye-typing interface designed, in part, for the brilliant Professor Stephen Hawking. This was not just about creating a functional tool; it was about providing a voice, a means of expression, to those rendered voiceless by circumstances.
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