Palestra: Prof. Antonio Piccinno (Univ. de Bari "Aldo Moro")

Abstract:
The evolution of software development has moved far beyond the traditional paradigm in which professional designers and engineers exclusively shape systems for passive end users. Today, the rise of End-User Development (EUD), empowered by Meta-Design principles, enables domain experts—non-programmers with deep knowledge of their fields—to actively participate in creating, tailoring, and evolving the digital tools they use daily. This participatory shift redefines roles, blurs the boundaries between users and developers, and fosters socio-technical ecosystems in which systems and users co-evolve. In parallel, Artificial Intelligence—particularly Generative AI (GenAI)—is transforming how humans conceptualize, design, and interact with software. GenAI is not merely an automation tool; it is a dynamic, responsive partner that adapts to user needs in real time, thereby reshaping workflows, creativity, and collaboration. However, its integration into EUD and Meta-Design contexts demands more than technical fluency—it requires intentional prompt engineering, ethical awareness, and a commitment to building human–AI symbiotic relationships where both parties enhance each other’s capabilities.

This lecture series explores the convergence of EUD, Meta-Design, and emerging AI paradigms. It investigates how Meta-Design frameworks can scaffold environments in which end users become designers, how Generative AI can support or hinder this empowerment, and which design principles ensure that AI-augmented systems remain transparent, controllable, and aligned with human values. Special attention is given to prompt engineering as a critical literacy in this new landscape—positioned not as a casual input mechanism but as a disciplined practice for guiding GenAI toward secure, context-aware, and ethically sound outputs.

Through theoretical grounding, real-world case studies, and hands-on reflection, students will examine:

• The historical and conceptual trajectory from professional design to participatory and end-user-driven development;
• The role of Meta-Design in cultivating “cultures of participation” and enabling system openness and adaptability;
• The opportunities and risks of integrating Generative AI into EUD environments;
• Emerging frameworks for responsible prompt design that support human–AI symbiosis, legal compliance, and contextual fidelity.

By the end of the series, students will be equipped to envision, evaluate, and prototype next-generation development environments where humans and AI co-create—not just software, but more inclusive, responsive, and evolving digital ecologies.

 

Short Bio: