UA professor expands STEM school program to Livingston

This fall, students in Livingston will join those in Hale and Greene counties who are learning about science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) careers through a unique program that uses brain responses.

Chris Crawford, assistant professor in the University of Alabama’s Department of Computer Science, will expand the Black Belt STEM project to Sumter County schools. Crawford now is working in Hale and Greene counties with the program and will continue his work there to create awareness of computer programming, engineering and robotics careers through use of neurophysiological responses.

“I am a product of Alabama’s Black Belt and grew up in Greene County,” said Crawford. “Because of that, I know the importance of creating awareness of STEM careers among students in this part of the state where resources are limited. I want these students to use their brains to learn differently and apply thinking concepts in a whole new way.”

Crawford will work with UA research students to offer the program at Sumter Central High School and University Charter School in Livingston. Students will explore next-generation physiological computing systems to better understand human-computer interaction.

Additionally, the program will integrate career awareness modules that increase the students’ knowledge of local job opportunities and prepare students to continue their education at colleges and universities.

The program is made possible through a grant from the Alabama Power Foundation.

In addition to serving as an assistant professor, Crawford directs UA’s Human-Technology Interaction Lab (HTIL). His research focuses on human-robot interaction and Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs). He has investigated systems that provide computer applications and robots with information about a user’s cognitive state.

His work on the development of the “Brain Drone Race” has been featured internationally and in more than 800 publications, including Forbes and The New York Times.

Crawford recently developed Neuroblock, a software platform for developing neurofeedback applications. He is the recipient of a 2021 National Science Foundation CAREER award.

“It feels amazing to be able to continue my work in an area that is home to me,” Crawford said. “I am pleased that this work is a part of the core mission of the University of Alabama’s College of Engineering. I hope to see this program facilitate communication between our business community and our schools to address workforce needs.”