Our research in human-computer interaction focuses on creating and evaluating interactive systems. Acting as user advocates first and technology advocates second, we create advanced user interfaces and applications that incorporate mobile and collaborative technologies, interactive visualizations, and a wide range of interactions to improve the chance that new information technologies can be used and enjoyed by people for real purposes. We do this by studying the social, cognitive, and affective aspects of the user experience, as well as consequences for communities, organizations, and society. Specifically, we explore applications in areas such as behavior change for health and wellness, peer-to-peer exchange systems, collaborative learning environments, and geo-deliberation and decision-making in local communities.