Hi, I'm Shalini! 👋 (she/her)
shalinii [at] umich [dot] edu
Hi, I'm Shalini! 👋 (she/her)
shalinii [at] umich [dot] edu
I am a graduate student at the University of Michigan's School of Information, advised by Dr. Venkatesh Potluri.
I have an undergraduate degree in Interaction Design, and my research lies at the intersection of accessibility, human-computer interaction (HCI), and Conversational AI.Â
A core strand of my research examines the accessibility of genAI platforms, including conversational agents and low-code tools, for blind and low-vision (BLV) users.Â
Another research theme I am interested in is the intersection of a11y + GenAI to support both individuals with cognitive disabilities and their caregivers.Â
Currently, I am working on designing accessibility evaluation frameworks for conversational programming tools, often referred to as vibe coding tools, for more inclusive futures in computing.Â
My current research relies on three core methods: qualitative usability evaluations, participatory co-design, and ethnography.Â
I'm always open to collaborations. If a project comes to mind that aligns with my background, please email me! I would love to chat.🙂
July 30, 2025: My first Poster submission was accepted at ASSETS 2025! I will be presenting in Denver this October.Â
May 27, 2025: I recently joined Harvard University as a UX Research Intern at the Harvard Library, where I’m working on accessibility-focused projects in the digital library space.Â
May 08, 2025: I am now part of IDEA Lab, directed by Dr. Venkatesh Potluri, where I contribute to research at the intersection of generative AI and accessibility.Â
May 08, 2025: I am officially part of the Master’s Thesis Option Pathway (MTOP) at the University of Michigan School of Information.Â
May 02, 2025: I received a scholarship to attend the 2025 Neurodiversity at Work Research Conference at Carnegie Mellon University, held from May 20–21.