REU site: human-technology interfaces: artificial intelligence applications for digital product design

The National Science Foundation Division of Engineering Education and Centers awarded Morgan State University $371,985 on October 1, 2026, to operate a ten-week summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) site focused on human-technology interfaces and artificial intelligence applications for digital product design through January 31, 2030.

The program engages undergraduate students in hands-on research at the intersection of AI and human-computer interaction, with structured training across four integrated research themes: AI tools for qualitative data analysis, AI tools for conceptual design, AI-enhanced usability testing, and transparency and trust in AI-supported design. Participants conduct mixed-methods research—including surveys, thematic coding, usability evaluation, and interaction data analysis—to examine human-AI collaboration in design workflows. Research projects include evaluating AI-assisted qualitative analysis, generating and assessing AI-based personas and interface designs, identifying bias and gaps in AI-generated outputs, and analyzing how explainability influences trust in AI-generated recommendations. The REU site builds a nationwide cohort of undergraduate students from varied academic and institutional backgrounds, developing technical, research, and professional skills while strengthening STEM participation and contributing to the nation's innovation and technological competitiveness.

Performance occurs in Baltimore, Maryland. The award is classified as a Project Grant under NSF Engineering (CFDA 47.041).

Abstract

This research experiences for undergraduates (REU) site at morgan state university provides a 10-week, summer immersive research program focused on exploring how artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance human-centered digital product design. As AI becomes increasingly embedded in everyday technologies, there is a growing need to understand how humans and intelligent systems can effectively collaborate to create user-friendly, accessible, and efficient digital experiences. This project addresses that need by engaging undergraduate students in hands-on research at the intersection of AI and human-computer interaction, while strengthening participation in stem by building a nationwide cohort of students from varied academic and institutional backgrounds. By developing technical, research, and professional skills, the program contributes to the preparation of a skilled stem workforce and advances the national interest in innovation and technological competitiveness. The REU program trains students to conduct interdisciplinary research at the intersection of AI, human-computer interaction (HCI), and human-centered design (HCD). The project focuses on four integrated research themes: (1) AI tools for qualitative data analysis, (2) AI tools for conceptual design, (3) AI-enhanced usability testing, and (4) transparency and trust in AI-supported design. Participants will use mixed methods such as surveys, thematic coding, usability evaluation, and analysis of interaction data to examine human-AI collaboration in design workflows. Projects include evaluating AI-assisted qualitative analysis, generating and assessing AI-based personas and interface designs, identifying bias and gaps in AI-generated outputs, analyzing user interaction patterns with AI-supported insights, and examining how explainability influences trust in AI-generated recommendations. Through structured mentoring and progressively independent research, students will produce research reports, presentations, and dissemination materials that contribute to advancing knowledge on effective, responsible, and inclusive human-AI collaboration in digital product design. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.- subawards are not planned for this award.