Neuroscience Through the Lens of Music and Interaction Design

Drawing from my background as a computer scientist, pianist, and designer of interactive technologies, this talk will share some thoughts on how we might build new bridges between neuroscience, the arts, and design. Examples from the art of piano performance illustrates how music can be an ideal microcosm to study the neural pathways of human learning. These include how to fine-tune perception and motor skills, how to conjure and communicate emotional states at will, and how to connect between sensory-motor and more abstract forms of thought. From my doctoral research on novel immersive technologies for music learning, I discuss how interactive technologies can set the stage for new neuroscience experiments situated in real-life activities. More broadly, I argue that intimate knowledge of artistic practices can yield valuable insights on the brain from which to generate new hypotheses to drive scientific inquiry. New technologies can assist in this process, and allow us to integrate scientific findings about the brain into new tools to support and extend human capabilities.

Bio

Xiao Xiao is an inventor, artist, and human computer interaction researcher. Trained in classical piano, she creates technologies for more effective and enjoyable music learning, which has been published at various international academic conferences. She has also presented and performed at events including TEDxBoston, TEDxSan Diego, and Aspen Ideas Festival. Xiao holds a B.S. in Computer Science from MIT, as well as a M.S. from the MIT Media Lab, where she recently completed her doctoral dissertation.