The exciting discussions, which are open to the public, offer attendees the chance to hear from top academics, while enjoying a selection of complimentary refreshments. The first of the upcoming ‘Digital University’ themed talks will take place next week.
Video games, the digital investigation of Shakespeare’s grave and intelligent machines are all on the menu, as researchers from across Staffordshire University explore how digital technology is transforming our lives.
Bobbie Fletcher, Associate Professor of Games Education, will kick off the series on Monday 7 October with her talk ‘Generation Gamification: Where everyday life is the name of the game!’.
“Gamification uses techniques borrowed from video games to motivate users to change their behaviour or solve problems in everyday life," Bobbie explained.
“This is happening in your life all the time, whether you realise it or not. For example, a supermarket might offer a discount on fuel when you spend over a certain amount in store, but the voucher will expire on a specific date. The supermarket is employing gamification by incentivising you to buy petrol from them before the offer runs outs.
"In my ‘Profs in the Pav’ talk, I will provide other examples of how we are being ‘gamified’, and what this means within the context of our everyday lives.”
On Monday 4 November, Mohamed Sedky, Associate Professor in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, will ask whether we can live peacefully with intelligent machines.
While the rise of Artificial Intelligence can spark fear in some, Mohammed will share his vision about how to take full advantage of AI's capabilities and improve our intelligence.
In the final talk, on Monday 2 December, members of the public are invited to learn how archaeologists finally solved the centuries-old mystery surrounding William Shakespeare’s grave.
Through case studies ranging from the Bard’s burial to Holocaust investigations, Associate Professor in Archaeology Kevin Colls will take an intriguing look at investigations where traditional archaeology is forbidden and how new digital solutions have reinvented what it means to be an archaeologist in modern society.
James Morgan, Head of Communications, Staffordshire University, said: “Building on our strong heritage in computing, Staffordshire University is well placed to offer expert insights into the latest digital innovations. Our upcoming ‘Digital University’-themed ‘Profs in the Pav’ sessions represent a fantastic opportunity for the community to hear first-hand about the pioneering work that is being driven by our academics. We look forward to welcoming attendees for what promises to be some genuine food for thought.”
The ‘Profs in the Pav’ talk will take place at 5.30pm on the below dates in the Pavilion Fusion Café, College Road, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 2DE.
For more information or to book your place please contact comms@staffs.ac.uk: