Persuasive Computing Lab

The Persuasive Computing Lab is a research group at Dalhousie University, led by Professor Rita Orji, a Canada Research Chair in Persuasive Technology. The lab specializes in designing and developing persuasive technologies, which are interactive digital systems like personalized mobile apps and games aimed at motivating users to adopt positive health and wellness behaviors.

Their research addresses real-world challenges in various areas, including mental health promotion, discouraging risky behaviors, enhancing safety and security, and promoting environmental sustainability. The lab creates personalized and culturally relevant technologies that adapt to individual characteristics, ensuring maximum effectiveness. Notable projects include games that educate users about COVID-19 precautions and apps promoting sexual health in Africa.

The lab's interdisciplinary approach combines human-computer interaction, behavioral science, and AI-driven personalization. With over 260 peer-reviewed publications and significant funding from competitive grants, the Persuasive Computing Lab serves a wide audience, including individuals, communities, public health organizations, educational institutions, and developers of health-related digital technologies.