SSP Forum: Scott Doorley on minds and artifacts

The
Symbolic Systems Forum
(community sessions of SYMSYS 280 - Symbolic Systems Research Seminar)
presents

Thinking with Things

Scott Doorley
d.school

Monday, April 13, 2026
12;30-1:20 pm PT
Computing and Data Science Building (CoDa), Room E160
In-person event, not recorded

Note: Lunch is provided, if pre-ordered, only for members of SYMSYS 280, but others are welcome to bring a lunch and eat during the presentation.

Abstract:

As our tools grow more intimate and invasive, understanding the patterns at play when artifacts and minds interact has never been more urgent. We routinely underestimate what seem like minor details, yet subtle shifts dramatically alter what follows. Drawing on two decades of designing learning spaces and digital experiences, this talk explores how physical spaces, digital interfaces, and even the simplest everyday tools actively nudge our thinking and how we might intentionally design interactions to shape it for the better.