Digital x Data Research Centre
Digital x Data is a new interdisciplinary university-wide research centre addressing local, national, and global opportunities and challenges related to digitalization and datafication, with a focus on the latest advancements in AI and data science.
As new topics for research emerge, new methods and conceptions are required to take account of changes, and to address future opportunities and societal challenges. In other words, we aim to harness the transformative potential of AI without losing sight of consequences, broadly related to fundamental ideas of responsibility, explainability, and sustainability. Moreover, LSBU’s global reputation for reducing inequalities underscores our commitment to conducting research that not only advances knowledge but also promotes social equity and inclusion.
To achieve our aims, we believe that an interdisciplinary and intersectional approach is necessary, drawing from science and technology as well as the arts and humanities, underpinned by LSBU’s strength across diverse fields of application and subject domains. Furthermore, we combine an applied and practical approach with sustainable partnerships and exchanges between academia, industry and the public sector. This not only fosters innovation but also ensures that our research has a tangible, real-world impact and clear and transformative sense of purpose.
We work collaboratively across all areas of LSBU, including research groups, staff and student networks. Current members are:
- Geoff Cox (Director)
- Zulfikar Adamu
- Matthew Bond
- Oswaldo Cadenas
- Tasos Dagiuklas
- Sevan Harput
- Peterop Kalule
- Ozan Kamiloglu
- Elena Marchevska
- Lucia Otoyo
- Ioana Petkova
- Federico Rossi
- Igea Troiani
- Chika Udeaja
- Andy Ungar
- Georgina Bartlett
- Rory Summerley
Ways of (Machine) Seeing: towards a new visual literacy in AI
Project supported by Responsible AI (RAi UK) Skills Programme, in collaboration with UCL Institute of Education, Justice Matrix and The Photographers’ Gallery (2024-25).
How does image-based AI challenge existing approaches to the teaching of visual creativity? New digital tools such as Generative AI are easily adopted by young people through everyday media, but there is little or no formal guidance on how to use these technologies safely or responsibly. Our research is designed to generate educational materials about AI, working directly with teachers to offer an enhanced visual learning experience. We aim to produce responsible AI skills resources that offer best practice for teacher training and curriculum development, introducing the necessary skills to address AI literacy in classroom settings.
The project team builds upon previous research carried out through a public engagement grant from The Alan Turing Institute entitled “Learning Experiments in Computer Vision and Visual Literacy” (2022-23).
XR Studio
The XR Studio is a digital creation and research facility that uses cutting-edge technology to support academic research and creative businesses in prototyping and designing new immersive and interactive products and processes. Located at LSBU’s Southwark Campus at The Hub building, the XR Studio is equipped with the latest technology suited for Virtual Production, 3D modelling, VR / AR / XR experience prototyping, Motion Capture technology and high-spec computers equipped with game engines and creative development software for making new and exciting work using creative technology.
Currently, the studio is being used by creative businesses as part of the Business Innovation & Growth (BIG) South London programme, which works to boost business growth in South London with a range of support programmes, industry networks, funding, and workspaces.