Fraunhofer Center for Assistive Information and Communication Solutions – AICOS
24.11.2025
From November 17 to 20, 2025, FhP‑AICOS proudly hosted the fourth edition of HCDWeek at its Porto premises, dedicating this year’s event to the theme of "Awkwardness in Design Research." This unique gathering brought together researchers, designers, students, and thought leaders to explore the different meanings and implications of awkwardness within the field of human-centred design. Over four days, the event featured a rich programme of keynotes, workshops, and a student colloquium, inviting participants to challenge conventional design norms and embrace discomfort as a source of creativity and reflection.
The week opened with a keynote by James Auger, who examined how acknowledging the constraints that shape design can open new avenues of possibility through what he calls "Reconstrained Design." Following this, Sofie Kinch delved into the material and embodied qualities of awkwardness, exploring its interplay with care and the spaces where play can emerge. Teresa Almeida further contributed by demonstrating how design can intentionally provoke awkwardness to spark reflection and engage with taboo topics, encouraging ethical inquiry and deeper understanding.
Throughout the event, the student colloquium showcased emerging researchers presenting their bachelor’s and master’s projects, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that come with navigating uncertainty, sensitive topics, and design dilemmas. Workshops led by experts such as Joana Couto da Silva provided practical strategies for mediating difficult conversations through design materials like postcards, prototypes, and drawings, while sessions on accessibility heuristics by Isabella Silva equipped participants with concrete tools to assess and improve digital interfaces.
Reflecting on the week, Ricardo Melo, Senior Researcher and organiser from FhP‑AICOS’s Human-Centred Design team, shared: “It was four days filled with inspiring moments that challenged us, invited introspection, and encouraged us to lean into the awkwardness of design, research, and everything in between — and beyond. Thank you to all our guests, speakers, workshop organisers, and participants. See you next year.”
This edition of HCDWeek reaffirmed FhP‑AICOS’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of human-centred design, not by smoothing over discomfort but by embracing it to create more meaningful, thoughtful, and transformative design practices. The event exemplified our dedication to fostering innovation and critical reflection at the intersection of design, research, and societal impact.