Associate Professor Tham Piumsomboon from University of Canterbury Visited XR Group
Associate Professor Tham Piumsomboon from University of Canterbury visited XR Group and gave inspiring talks.
Title: Self++: Human–AI Immersion for Co-Determined Living in XR
Abstract: As Extended Reality (XR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) reshape our digital landscape, how do we make sure they extend rather than erode human potential? Join Dr Tham Piumsomboon to explore Self++, a framework for co-determined living in XR. Based on Self-Determination Theory, Self++ puts human flourishing first by nurturing competence, autonomy and relatedness through ever-closer human–AI collaboration. Dr Piumsomboon will explain how the framework empowers users, counters cognitive biases and exploits XR’s strengths—moving us beyond technological determinism to genuine partnership. This session offers a preliminary roadmap to a future where technology amplifies our abilities and deepens our sense of purpose. The talk will also introduce the “8P Principles” guiding the QUADRIC research group’s design of meaningful interactive systems.
Bio: Dr. Tham Piumsomboon is an Associate Professor at the School of Product Design, University of Canterbury, specialising in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Extended Reality (XR), and Human-AI Interaction. He holds a PhD in Computer Science from the University of Canterbury and has experience across both academia and industry. His research aims to enhance human potential by developing technologies that support perception, cognition, and collaboration, while promoting ethical human-AI interaction. Dr. Piumsomboon has made notable contributions to the field, particularly in XR collaboration. He has published in leading venues such as ACM CHI and IEEE TVCG, and has received several honours, including the 2022 New and Emerging Researcher Award from the Faculty of Engineering. He has also served in key roles on international committees including IEEE ISMAR, IEEE VR, and ACM VRST, secured multiple research grants, and actively reviews for over 20 top-tier journals and conferences.
