Campus news

Media Advisory: Students to demonstrate possible "next big thing" prototypes

By Kathleen Maclay

ATTENTION: Reporters covering higher education, social media, the Internet and computer design technology, with great visuals for photographers and TV crews

WHAT

Some 21 students at the University of California, Berkeley’s School of Information will demonstrate prototypes of interactive computer devices they have designed and constructed over the course of the spring semester that could make them the next Mark Zuckerberg, or at least entrepreneurs with unique and very catchy products.

The students, who come from majors ranging from engineering and film studies to architecture and information, have designed and constructed 11 prototypes to be displayed as part of an Information School class taught by professor Kimiko Ryokai, who also will be at the event.

Among the gadgetry they have built using physical computing prototyping tools are:

  • A socially-networked closet that tells you what (not) to wear
  • A wearable back injury prevention control system that offers positive feedback
  • An interactive mobile that connects a new baby with its adoring but far-flung family members
  • “Breathing buddy” board games designed to help players better control their breathing and heart rates for mental, physical or karmic benefits

WHEN

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Monday, May 2, and Wednesday, May 4

WHERE

South Hall, Room 110. A campus map is online .

DETAILS

Ryokai’s research focuses on building new expressive tools connecting people’s familiarity with the physical world, and exploring how new media expands interaction space. More details about the class and student projects are online at http://courses.ischool.berkeley.edu/i262/s11/info . Reporters planning to attend one of the sessions are encouraged to inform Kathleen Maclay in UC Berkeley Media Relations at (510) 643-5651 beforehand.