Tara Capel

Dr Tara Capel is a Visiting Fellow at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in the Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science. As an early career researcher in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), her work focuses on how technology can support wellbeing and empowerment through participatory design approaches.

Dr Capel's educational background includes:

• PhD in Human-Computer Interaction from Queensland University of Technology
• Master of Information Technology from Queensland University of Technology
• Bachelor of Journalism from the University of Queensland

Her research interests span multiple interconnected domains within HCI:

• Participatory and Co-Design: Engaging users as active partners in the design process
• Digital Wellbeing: Exploring how technology can support self-care practices
• Human-Centered AI: Designing AI systems that prioritize human needs and experiences
• Generative AI: Investigating implications of generative models for user experience

Dr Capel's recent publications reveal a clear trajectory toward understanding the intersection of AI and human wellbeing. Her work on self-care with generative AI tools demonstrates practical applications while her research on LLM-based chatbots explores social implications of conversational AI. These studies reflect a growing emphasis on creating humane technology that serves human needs.

As an educator, Dr Capel brings her research expertise into the classroom:

• CAB210 User Experience Fundamentals: Teaching qualitative user research methods
• CAB310 Interaction and Experience Design: Focusing on theory and evaluation of emerging technologies
• IFN591 Principles of User Experience: Introducing human-centered design principles

Dr Capel is actively involved in multiple research projects including Digital Self-Care in Everyday Life, Human-Machine Teaming in medical contexts, and exploring children's active play through tangible interfaces (ARC DP200100723).