Melanie Baljko

Melanie Baljko is an Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at York University's Lassonde School of Engineering. She directs the Practices in Enabling Technologies (PiET) Lab and participates in graduate programs in Science & Technology Studies, Critical Disability Studies, Digital Media, and Interdisciplinary Studies.

• Research Focus: Human-centered computing, participatory design, maker methods, assistive technology, augmentative communication, and computer-supported speech therapy
• Teaching: Graduate courses in critical technical practice and human-computer interaction; undergraduate courses in user interfaces, human-computer interaction, and computer science projects

Publications highlight her work in accessible technology for Parkinson's patients, DIY assistive technologies in Kenya, and participatory design frameworks. She collaborates with the University Health Network – Toronto Rehabilitation Institute as an Affiliate Scientist.

Key Themes: Accessibility, equity in technical design, and empowering marginalized communities through technology. Recent work examines transit app accessibility, disability inclusion in clinical education, and mixed reality teaching tools.