David Harley

My early research was in the area of Human Computer Interaction and explored older people's appropriation of digital technologies, considering issues of accessibility in relation to the ageing process. This continues to be an area of interest for me with my research focusing on different technologies (from online communities, social media, mobile phones and video games) as well as looking at the different motivations that underpin this technological involvement (e.g. intergenerational connections, sense of community, adaptations to ageing, etc.). My current research in this area is looking at older's people's susceptibility to online scams. More recently I have been developing research in the area of Cyberpsychology which focuses on the human relationship with digital technology at a psychological (rather than design) level. Here I am interested in the way that everyday digital interactions come to shape our experience of the world, ourselves and other people. My current research in this area focuses on smartphone dependency as an existential concern and the notion of 'digital mindfulness'. My approach to research is informed by my background in HCI and user experience and as such emphasises understandings of technology use that are grounded in an appreciation of subjectivity and social context.  

• Cyberpsychology – the impact of digital technology on everyday life
• Older people and digital technology
• Intergenerational contact in the digital age
• Digital wellbeing
• Mindfulness in relation to the digital world