Beth Bonsignore

Beth Bonsignore is an Associate Research Professor at the University of Maryland's College of Information Studies (iSchool), where she also directs the BA in Tech & Info Design program and the KidsTeam initiative. She is affiliated with the Human-Computer Interaction Lab, focusing on research at the intersection of technology, education, and ethics. Her work emphasizes child-centered design, participatory methods, and inclusive technologies.

Dr. Bonsignore holds a PhD in Information Studies from the University of Maryland. Her research spans user experience, learning sciences, and participatory design, with a focus on empowering youth and marginalized populations through technology. Key projects include co-designing ethical AI frameworks, developing IoT-based environmental solutions, and creating accessible learning tools for children.

Her research interests include accessibility, digital humanities, and ethical technology development. Notable areas of exploration include AI problem formulation with children, participatory ethics in emerging technologies, and sustainable smart campus initiatives. She has collaborated internationally on projects such as cross-cultural co-design and endangered language revitalization via AI.

Beth’s work integrates interdisciplinary approaches, combining computer science, education, and sociology to address societal challenges. She advocates for equitable technology access and has led initiatives like the Campus Computation Center and the Playable Case Study platform for STEM career exploration.