Misericordia University Faculty Present Research on Artificial Intelligence and Human-Centered Design at International Conference in Florence, Italy

Misericordia University Faculty Present Research on Artificial Intelligence and Human-Centered Design at International Conference in Florence, Italy

DALLAS, PA — Misericordia University faculty members recently shared their innovative research at the 9th International Conference on Human Intelligent Systems Integration (IHSI 2026): Disruptive and Innovative Technologies, held February 11–13, 2026, at the Università di Firenze in Florence, Italy.

The prestigious interdisciplinary conference brings together global scholars to advance the theory and application of artificial cognitive systems and human-artificial systems collaboration. IHSI emphasizes a hybrid-centered design approach that builds upon human-centered design and intelligent systems supported by cognitive software and engineering, smart data analytics, large-scale socioeconomic simulations, and next-generation computer visualization. The conference also explores the complex technological challenges shaping contemporary society.

Misericordia faculty delivered several podium presentations highlighting the University’s leadership in human-centered artificial intelligence, educator preparation, and exercise science.

Dr. Colleen Duffy, Associate Professor and Chair of Teacher Education, presented “Examining the Impact of AI on Schema and Scaffolding in Educator Preparation,” exploring how artificial intelligence influences cognitive development frameworks and instructional support strategies in teacher training programs.

Dr. Jodi Loughlin, Associate Professor of Teacher Education, delivered “Navigating the Artificial Intelligence Landscape in Higher Education: A Human-Centered Approach to Integrating Technology for Enhanced Learning.” Her research addressed thoughtful and ethical AI integration in higher education, emphasizing faculty engagement, student learning outcomes, and responsible innovation.

Dr. Tiffany Mulally, Associate Professor and Chair of Exercise Science, presented “Designing User-Centered Exercise Science Education: Integrating HCI Principles to Address Fitness Technology Disparities.” Her work examined how human-computer interaction (HCI) principles can reduce inequities in access to and use of fitness technologies while enhancing student learning experiences in exercise science.

In addition to podium presentations, Dr. Bobbi Yeager, Associate Professor of Teacher Education, and Dr. Duffy presented a poster session titled “Assessing Teacher Candidates’ Professionalism through the Use of Mixed Reality.” Their research highlighted innovative applications of immersive technologies to evaluate and strengthen professional competencies in future educators.

Participation in IHSI 2026 underscores Misericordia University’s commitment to advancing research at the intersection of technology and human development. Faculty scholarship presented at the conference reflects the University’s mission to foster innovation while maintaining a strong focus on human dignity, ethical responsibility, and student-centered learning.

For more information about Misericordia University’s academic programs and faculty research, visit www.misericordia.edu.