HCI Research Lab · Emory University

Designing technology with and for underserved populations.

The DETOUR Lab centers Black feminist epistemologies as a critical framework for computing — building technology in collaboration with the communities it is meant to serve.

DETOUR Lab members collaborating around a table

DETOUR is a research lab in the Department of Computer Science at Emory University, directed by Dr. Yolanda A. Rankin — a recognized thought leader in applying Black feminist epistemologies as a critical framework for computing education.

Research rooted in community and care

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Black Feminist Epistemologies in Computing

Applying black women's way of knowing to interrogate and reshape how technology is conceived, taught, and built.

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Designing the Afroverse for Black Women

Co-designing digital worlds and experiences that center the joy, safety, and self-determination of Black women.

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Broadening Participation in Computing

Rethinking computing education so that more people see themselves as makers of technology, not just consumers.

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Qualitative Methods & Sister Circles

Developing community-rooted research methods that honor narrative, dialogue, and collective knowledge.

Designing the Afroverse for Black Women

Through facilitated sister circles, we gather and analyze the stories of Black women to imagine technology futures designed on their own terms — from concept to participatory prototype.

Explore the research →

People behind DETOUR

Meet everyone →
Dr. Yolanda A. Rankin

Dr. Yolanda A. Rankin

Principal Investigator
Shaniah Reese

Shaniah Reese

PhD Student
Khloe Wright

Khloe Wright

PhD Student
Nyah Rene

Nyah Rene

Undergraduate Researcher

Join the DETOUR Lab

We welcome students and collaborators who believe computing should be designed with and for the communities it serves.

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