Seminar Series

Register here and join us for an ITS virtual talk "Human-centered Technology to Support People" Dr. Meiying Qin (York University) on November 3, 2026 from 12:00 pm till 1:30 pm..

Meiying Qin is an assistant professor, teaching stream in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at the Lassonde School of Engineering. Her teaching and research interests include robotics, human-robot interactions, animal-robot interactions, robot tutoring systems, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computer science education. Meiying received her Ph.D. in Computer Science from Yale University in 2023 in the area of robotics. She received an M.Sc and M.Phil in Computer Science from Yale University and a B.Sc in Computer Science and Psychology from the University of Toronto. Originally from China, she received a B.Sc in Biology from Peking University.
 
Technology is often evaluated by what it can do. Human-centered technology asks a different question: how can technology better support human needs, experiences, and growth? In this talk, I will discuss examples from my work in robotics and education, including university simulations that help students navigate the transition to university and social robots designed to serve as learning companions. Drawing on research in human-robot interaction and socially assistive technology, I will explore how placing people at the center of design can lead to systems that are not only technically capable but also meaningful, supportive, and responsive to the communities they serve.