Driving Digital Innovation: Virginia Tech’s Policy Scholars Program
Virginia Tech’s Institute for Society, Culture, and Environment is spearheading a unique initiative aimed at bridging the gap between technology and policy. The +Policy Network’s Policy Scholars program is designed to empower researchers who may lack formal policy training but are eager to engage with policy-related questions in their work.
A Collaborative Approach to Policy Development
The Policy Scholars program pairs scholars with experienced faculty mentors who guide them through the intricacies of policy-making. This collaboration lasts up to three years, during which scholars work closely with their mentors to create a policy-related product. This could take the form of a grant proposal, a workshop, or a publication, all aimed at fostering interdisciplinary policy thinking.
Real-World Impact: Brendan David-John’s Journey
One notable participant, Brendan David-John, has been exploring eye-tracking technology for several years. His involvement in the Policy Scholars program has provided him with a fresh perspective on how policy intersects with technology. Through the program, he connected with Saul Halfon, an associate professor and chair of the Department of Science, Technology, and Society. Their discussions ranged from in-home remote assistance applications to broader issues of federal and international law, focusing on how ethics and policy can address emerging technological concerns.
David-John reflects on his experience: “I saw the Policy Scholar program as a chance to learn what policy is, the role it plays in technology design—especially for emerging technologies—and what solutions it can provide.” His goal was to find a way to integrate his technical work with a more policy-informed approach.
Navigating Privacy and Security in Eye-Tracking Technology
As a researcher funded by the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative, David-John was named a Policy Scholar in 2022. The program has since provided him with seed funding and access to a policy expert mentor, enabling him to deepen his understanding of privacy and security issues related to eye-tracking technology.
The Intersection of Human Vision and Technology
David-John’s fascination with eye-tracking technology stems from his interest in human vision and perception. He aims to integrate this technology in ways that enhance user experience while prioritizing privacy. “A lot of my background and interest in eye tracking came from an interest in human vision, how the eyes work, and how we perceive things,” he explains. His research focuses on creating user representations that capture personal characteristics, behaviors, and preferences, optimizing interactions with eye-tracking systems.
The Mechanics of Eye-Tracking
David-John elaborates on the technical aspects of his research: “We place little cameras near your eyes and track every little detail that you look at, giving us information we can use to develop the technology further.” However, he acknowledges that the high frame rates at which these cameras operate—60 frames per second or more—raise significant privacy concerns. As users become aware of the extent to which their visual data is being tracked, the need for robust privacy measures becomes increasingly critical.
Future Opportunities in Policy Research
The second iteration of the Policy Scholars program is currently accepting applications, inviting new researchers to explore the intersection of technology and policy. This initiative not only aims to enhance individual scholars’ understanding of policy but also seeks to foster a broader dialogue about the ethical implications of emerging technologies.
By equipping researchers with the tools and knowledge to navigate complex policy landscapes, Virginia Tech’s Policy Scholars program is paving the way for innovative solutions that address the challenges posed by rapid technological advancement.
