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Shuli Gilutz
UX research * Children's Technology
Professional Background
Dr. Shuli Gilutz is a preeminent expert in user research and design within the realm of children's interactive environments, possessing a rich blend of academic and practical experience. Her career spans teaching, consulting, and guiding initiatives that foster improved user experiences for children. She has an impressive track record as a strategic consultant focusing on children’s digital experiences. Dr. Gilutz not only collaborates with startups but has also made significant contributions to the scholarly community by conducting extensive research in user experience (UX) settings.
In 2002, Dr. Gilutz was instrumental in co-authoring the pioneering report on Children's Web Usability alongside renowned usability expert Jakob Nielsen at the Nielsen Norman Group (NN/g). This report has been a cornerstone in understanding how children interact with technology, establishing principles that optimize their user experiences. Since then, she has continued to share her insights and findings, actively participating in international conferences and workshops to advance the field of UX research.
Dr. Gilutz's passion for education and mentorship is evidenced by her involvement with various academic institutions and programs. As a sought-after speaker, she shares her knowledge on usability, play, learning, and the evolving landscape of children's technology, further cementing her role as a leading figure in the field.
Shuli’s commitment to merging academic research with practical applications is highlighted by her role in founding and moderating the Child-Computer Interaction research Facebook group, which boasts over 1,000 members worldwide. This platform serves as a vital resource for professionals and academics who aim to discuss advancements and best practices in the realm of child-computer interaction.
Education and Achievements
Dr. Gilutz has an impressive educational background, having earned her Ph.D. in Educational Psychology with a focus on Cognitive Studies from Columbia University in the City of New York. Additionally, she holds a Master’s degree in Learning, Design, and Technology from Stanford University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and the Multidisciplinary Program of the Arts from Tel Aviv University.
Her academic journey has equipped her with the theoretical and practical knowledge essential for addressing the unique challenges associated with designing technology for children. This extensive educational background is complemented by her active engagement in research and teaching across multiple prestigious institutions, where she has delivered impactful contributions as an instructor and faculty member.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Dr. Gilutz has undertaken various influential roles in esteemed organizations dedicated to enhancing children's user experiences. She has served as a Senior Consultant for Children's UX at Common Sense Networks, overseeing projects that prioritize the safety and educational value of digital content for children. Her expertise was also pivotal during her tenure as the UX Lead Advisory at Jewish Interactive, where she developed interactive educational resources that maximize learning while ensuring user engagement.
Dr. Gilutz's thought leadership extends to her participation in the global Designing for Children’s Rights Association, where she serves on the board. She has also played a significant role in founding the Israeli chapter of this association, advocating for children's rights in the design and implementation of digital platforms.
Notable Contributions
Dr. Gilutz's work with organizations such as Google for Startups exemplifies her dedication to nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship in the tech sector. As a User Experience (UX) Expert, Mentor, and Instructor at Google, she has empowered many aspiring entrepreneurs by imparting her vast knowledge and experience in building user-centered designs that cater specifically to children.
Her commitment to the field is further showcased through her comprehensive involvement in other organizations and educational institutions, including:
- Teaching Fellow at Tel Aviv University, where she has inspired future generations of UX designers through her engaging classes.
- Adjunct Assistant Professor at The Interdisciplinary Center, Herzliya, facilitating dialogue between academic research and real-world applications.
- Involvement in various advisory roles across startups and initiatives aimed at revolutionizing educational technology, ensuring that children's needs remain central to the development process.
Dr. Gilutz has a multitude of past roles that illustrate her versatile expertise, including User Experience Specialist at Nielsen Norman Group, Project Manager at IOL (Israel On-Line), and Instructional and Interaction Designer at Edunet. These roles have allowed her to bridge the gap between usability analysis and interactive educational content creation.
Recognition and Impact
Shuli Gilutz's work has undeniably left a significant impact on the domain of children's technology and user experience design. Throughout her extensive career, she has continuously advocated for creating supportive, engaging, and educational digital environments for children. Her research and presentations have contributed to an increased awareness about usability issues related to children's interactions with technology, encouraging the adoption of best practices across the industry.
Moreover, her leadership in the Child-Computer Interaction research community fosters collaboration and innovation among professionals dedicated to enhancing the digital experiences of children worldwide. Through her unwavering commitment to redefining the landscape of children's digital engagement, Dr. Gilutz remains at the forefront of UX design, helping to shape a future that prioritizes the rights and needs of children in our increasingly digital world.
