fancy meeting you here.
i'm Alex McElravy!
about me
draw_collage
my design perspective is based on art and crafts
Since I was a kid, I loved crafting specific things that fit exactly how I envisioned them. I taped together custom American Girl doll props and drew pictures in coloring books because I didn't like the ones inside. The desire to create something one-of-a-kind is the foundation of my design approach. I love creating experiences that feel tailored and personalized.
conversion_path
from computer science to design
My journey originally started out in programming, where I worked as a web developer and pursued an associate degree in computer science amidst the pandemic. I stumbled upon UX, was pushed in by an amazing professor, and everything just clicked for me. I received my B.A. in Digital Media Arts from Duquesne University in December 2024, with a concentration in Interactive Design & Media + a minor in Computer Science.
During my undergrad, I spent a lot of time exploring design research through impactful spaces like heathcare and AI. I discovered a passion for the use of design in academia. I feel most at home in between the parallels of design processes and the scientific method.
attractions
when i'm not glued to my computer
My hobbies include experimenting with new recipes, watching K-pop music videos, and making clay minatures. I'm a big foodie, so you can find me at any new restaurants in Pittsburgh. I also enjoy cozy games (my favorite is Animal Crossing!!), but I've been dabbling in Hogwarts Legacy as of late.
current research interests
I'm still narrowing down my research interests, but my current focus is on trying to bridge theoretical design research with practical applications. I have experience exploring explainable AI, accessible interface design, and motivators for behavioral learning. I'm excited by the possibility of bringing together academia and industry to create innovative experiences that truly serve people.
news
posters i've authored
Enhancing Wildlife Research: Explainable AI for Smarter Data Collection
event
Grefenstette Center for Ethics, Tech Ethics Symposium 2024
editor_choice
Grand Prize in Undergraduate Research
This study explores how explainable AI (XAI) can enhance AI system transparency in conservation research by analyzing system users’ needs and data collection methods.
AI-Sorted Usability Feedback for a Lifestyle Intervention Program
event
Grefenstette Center for Ethics, Tech Ethics Symposium 2024
This study explores the use of natural language processing and sentiment analysis in evaluating usability testing feedback to support human designers.
Development and Usability Testing of a Multimedia Enhanced Healthy Lifestyle Behavior Intervention for People with Spinal Cord Injury
event
Duquesne University, Undergraduate Research & Scholarship Symposium 2024
editor_choice
Center of Teaching Excellence Award for Undergraduate Research
This study explores the design process and usability testing of WHEEL-LEARN, a healthy lifestyle behavior intervention for people with spinal cord injury.