Fostering Collaboration with Stellenbosch University in South Africa
Associate Professors Matjaž Kljun and Klen Čopič Pucihar, researchers from UP FAMNIT and UP IAM's Department of Information Sciences and Technologies, visited the Department of Information Science at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, as part of the Erasmus+ project KA 171. This initiative falls under the mobility program involving partner countries, also known as third countries, not included in the standard program.
Stellenbosch University stands as a globally recognized institution with which UP FAMNIT an UP IAM cultivated a cooperative relationship in the realm of computer science and information technologies. Moving forward, the collaboration aims to strengthen international ties through student and staff exchanges.
During their visit, our researchers were warmly welcomed by Prof. Daniel Le Roux, Head of the Cognition and Technology Research Group at Stellenbosch University. Prof. Le Roux had previously visited us in July, delivering a lecture to our students on media ecology. This topic delves into the ubiquitous presence of mobile computing devices, offering an ever-expanding array of enriching online experiences.
At Stellenbosch University, our researchers conducted seminars focusing on recent advancements in human-computer interaction, including the use of materials, generative AI to support language learning in mixed reality environments, and the latest developments in physiological sensing.
"In the long run, the anticipated outcome is a joint publication in a prestigious journal and/or conference. Ideally, the publication will also feature contributions from junior researchers or students. These seminars aim to provide students with a profound understanding of how technology can enhance human abilities, such as memory. Through firsthand experience, students gain insights into the effective use of mixed reality technology and the integration of technologies like generative AI into this process. Ultimately, this visit enriches the knowledge of both host and visiting students and researchers in key methodologies within the HCI domain, enhancing the quality of our research," emphasized our researchers.