Jessica Hammer

Jessica Hammer is an Associate Professor of Learning Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University, jointly appointed in the Human-Computer Interaction Institute (HCII) and the Entertainment Technology Center (ETC). She directs the Center for Transformational Play, focusing on games that provoke meaningful change in players' perspectives and behaviors. Her research explores how virtual reality (VR), serious games, and interactive narratives can address complex societal issues like environmental awareness, mental health stigma, and AI ethics. She is also an award-winning game designer, with projects including Eye into AI, Monsters of Appalachia, and Project Echo of the Abyss.

Hammer's academic background integrates computer science, education, and design thinking. Her work spans diverse domains such as healthcare through games, gender-inclusive game narratives, and AI literacy education. She has advised students including Erica Cruz, Noor Hammad, and Beatrice Maggipinto, mentoring them in projects that bridge technology and humanistic goals. Current research initiatives include:

• AI Ethics: Developing frameworks like RAD to help youth critique algorithmic systems
• VR for Education: Creating deep-sea exploration experiences to foster ecological empathy
• Inclusive Design: Addressing accessibility in game streaming for vision-impaired users

Her projects often involve collaboration with interdisciplinary teams across CMU's schools, leveraging partnerships with game developers, educators, and social scientists. Hammer's work has been featured in venues like CHI and The Link magazine, reflecting her commitment to both academic rigor and real-world impact.