DEL in Between (PR): Digital Tools for Cognitive Abilities & Wellbeing

What is DEL in Between (PR)?

DEL in Between (PR) is a monthly peer-reviewed webinar series exploring emerging topics in art and design higher education. It is organised by DEL Conference, a collective of colleagues across Parsons School of Design, Penn State, Texas State University, University of the Arts London.

Learn more about DEL.

What's on this month?

MindMaze: The Role of Interactive Digital Tools in Supporting Cognitive Abilities and Memory Retention

Presenter: Maryam Farhadi, Research Assistant (University of Connecticut)

This presentation examines the role of interactive digital tools in cognitive engagement, memory retention, and emotional support. By integrating cognitive science, UX research, and interactive media design, these tools offer innovative solutions for individuals experiencing Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and related cognitive challenges, particularly in dementia care.A key example is MindMaze, an interactive digital application designed to support cognitive well-being through adaptive design, sensory-driven engagement, and interactive storytelling. By reinforcing memory recall with familiar voices, images, and personalized interactions, MindMaze provides both cognitive stimulation and emotional reassurance, fostering a sense of connection and familiarity.This session will explore the research methodologies, design principles, and accessibility considerations behind such digital interventions. Attendees will gain insights into how user-centered design, emotional engagement, and interactive storytelling can be applied in digital health, education, and assistive technology to support individuals with cognitive impairments. Additionally, this presentation will examine how design serves as a tool for impact in healthcare, shaping more accessible, empathetic, and research-driven solutions that improve both cognitive and emotional well-being. The discussion will highlight key UX strategies, ethical considerations, and research-driven insights that contribute to the development of inclusive and effective digital tools.

ALBUM: Exploring Personal Photo Booklets as Visual Design Tools for Emotional Regulation, Self-Soothing, and Wellbeing in Higher Education Students

Presenter: Maria Mackinney, Associate Professor (Institution Royal Danish Academy, Institute of Design and Interaction)

ALBUM is a research project exploring how personal photo booklets can support emotional regulation and wellbeing in at-risk students in higher education. Rooted in narrative therapy and photo therapy, the project examines how curating personal imagery from one’s camera roll can help re-author dominant internal narratives - such as feeling unworthy or isolated - and foster resilience. Drawing on theories from Michael White, Judy Weiser, and Roland Barthes, ALBUM views photo booklets as both reflective practices and emotional tools. Students are guided through selecting, organizing, and printing their images into small, chapbook-inspired booklets during facilitated workshops. These booklets aim to serve as tangible self-soothing objects in times of emotional overwhelm. The project also includes a bio-sensorics phase measuring emotional response through eye-tracking, voice analysis, and skin conductance to assess the impact of self-curated vs. others’ imagery. ALBUM will be piloted in an interactive workshop where participants co-create content and engage with the concept of glimmers - small visual triggers of comfort and joy. The project seeks to demonstrate how accessible, visual practices can offer meaningful, preventative emotional support in education and beyond, meeting students in their everyday visual lives with compassion and creativity.

What's on next?

Explore the rest of the DEL in Between (PR) collection to sign up upcoming sessions.

Do you have any questions?

Email us at delconference@arts.ac.uk