Presenter: Songheng (Alexander) Zhang

Title: ChartifyText: Automated Chart Generation from Data-Involved Texts via LLM

Abstract:

Interpreting complex documents with data-rich passages presents significant challenges. The mixture of textual and numerical information increases readers' cognitive load and time consumption as they must interpret data while connecting it to passage topics. While existing reading tools attempt to reduce reader effort through automatic summarization and sentence highlighting, they fall short in helping readers efficiently interpret and analyze data-rich passages. We present ChartifyText, an LLM-based augmented reading tool that transforms textual information into visual charts and generates thought-provoking questions to facilitate passage interpretation. Our evaluation through a within-subject study with 20 participants demonstrated significant improvements.

Presenter: Benjamin Kwok

Title: VR for HAZMAT Decontamination Facility Training: An Initial Case Study

Abstract:

Mass decontamination training is essential for hospital staff to effectively manage chemical or radiological emergencies. Traditional training methods using on-site simulations in open decontamination facilities (ODFs) are resource-intensive and time-consuming. To address these challenges, a virtual reality (VR) system was developed to simulate decontamination workflows, casualty scanning, and emergency prioritization.

A mixed-methods evaluation compared VR-based training with conventional approaches. Quantitative results showed no significant difference in knowledge outcomes between the two methods, indicating that VR training is equally effective. Qualitative feedback favored VR due to its flexibility, efficient resource use, and immersive experience.

These findings suggest that VR is a cost-effective and scalable training supplement. A hybrid approach combining VR with physical training is recommended to enhance knowledge retention while maintaining hands-on practice.

Presenter: Aaron ZHU Pengyu

Title: Tao-Technology for Teen Mobile Use: Harmonizing Adaptation, Autonomy, and Reflection

Abstract:

Adolescents’ mobile technology use is often regulated through rigid control mechanisms that fail to account for their autonomy and natural usage patterns. Drawing on Taoist philosophy—particularly Wu Wei, Yin-Yang, and Zi Ran—this position paper proposes Tao-Technology, a self-organizing, adaptive regulatory framework. Integrating insights from Reflective Informatics and Information Ecologies, we explore how mobile technology can dynamically adjust to context while fostering self-reflection and meaning-making. This approach shifts from external restrictions to dynamic co-adaptative regulation, ensuring technology governance remains flexible yet structured, supporting adolescents in cultivating a balanced and intentional relationship with digital technology.

Presenter: Zhuoqun Jiang

Title: Leveraging Chatbot-Mediated Mutual Reminiscence for Promoting Positive Affect and Feeling of Connectedness among Loved Ones

Abstract: