PhD Thesis Proposal: Dylan Moore

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"Designing Narrative-Driven Systems for Community-Centered Adaptive Interventions"

Abstract

Narratives are central to human cognition and learning. This thesis investigates the integration of narrative-based systems and crowdsourcing techniques into complex adaptive systems, emphasizing the design of scalable, human-centered solutions. By focusing on systems rather than individual agents, this work seeks to create collaborative, community-driven interventions that address diverse social and contextual needs. Current systems examined in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) literature often prioritize individual user-tool interactions, neglecting the dynamic, multi-layered nature of human experiences in social environments like healthcare and education. This limitation restricts their ability to promote collaborative learning, sustained engagement, or community-level impact. Case studies in my thesis, which focus on educational tools and dementia caregiver support, highlight these gaps.

This thesis shifts the focus from individual AI interaction to designing systems that adapt to collective narratives. A community-first perspective informs how shared experiences can guide system design, aiming for outcomes that foster collaboration and inclusivity. Using crowdsourcing techniques like learnersourcing, I prototype and evaluate systems in education and healthcare. Metrics include markers of learning and caregiver outcomes, demonstrating how narrative-driven systems can empower communities and achieve sustainable impact.

Thesis Committee

• Prof. Elizabeth Murnane (chair)
• Prof. Petra Taylor
• Prof. Lorie Loeb
• Prof. James Landay (Stanford University)

Contact

For more information, contact Thayer Registrar at thayer.registrar@dartmouth.edu.