UW–Madison is celebrating 100 years of the School of Human Ecology’s Child Development Lab, one of the first university-based preschool laboratories of its kind in the U.S. The state-of-the-art facility, located on the UW–Madison campus …
Dean Soyeon Shim
How ideas from human ecology can help AI work for our well‑being
Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are now all around us. How can we think about their development and use in a way that actually helps people thrive? An article in The Conversation — an independent, nonprofit …
When there is no map: Human ecology as a compass in navigating AI
How do human ecologists approach the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in everyday life? By asking thoughtful questions rooted in human-centered principles, and drawing from longstanding expertise in relationships, communities, consumers and design. “Generative …
Center for Design and Material Culture announces new name and celebrates new possibilities for creativity, learning and research
It’s the start of a new chapter for the School of Human Ecology’s Center for Design and Material Culture as it introduces a new name and celebrates the expanded learning opportunities made possible by a …
In the news: Human ecologists extend the reach of expertise through interviews, commentary pieces
The majority of School of Human Ecology faculty (35) were quoted or mentioned in a news media story in 2024, in addition to teaching faculty, teaching professors, staff, graduate and undergraduate students, emerit faculty and …
The ecology of innovation, community and well-being: Investiture ceremony honors Human Ecology faculty members and visionary donors
An investiture ceremony is among the oldest traditions in academia. It’s also one of the most prestigious and inspiring campus events, bringing together faculty honorees and the donors who are investing in their work in …
Human Ecology’s first two RISE Initiative hires will bring human-centered approach to AI research
Esther Kang (left) and Qi Yang The School of Human Ecology announces its first two hires as part of the Wisconsin Research, Innovation and Scholarly Excellence (RISE) Initiative. Esther Kang and Qi Yang, both incoming …
One-of-a-kind experience: Students revitalize iconic heritage brand through consulting project
Story by Sofia More x’26, UW–Madison student studying Community & Organizational Development. Four School of Human Ecology students had an unprecedented learning opportunity: Teaming up with Lands’ End to help revitalize its heritage brand Willis …
Human Ecology part of chancellor’s initiative to innovate around AI, other global issues
As the campus leader in human-centered design, the School of Human Ecology is proud to join the College of Engineering and the College of Letters & Science in leading a campus-wide effort to tackle some …
Designing a better future for the planet: MAU film comes to UW–Madison
Legendary designers Bruce Mau and Bisi Williams of Massive Change Network return to campus for documentary screening and Q&A Written by Nicole Etter It started as sparks flew around a campfire one evening last autumn. …