Center for Complexity and Emerging Technologies (COMET)
COMET is a multidisciplinary research and professional laboratory under the Advanced Research Institute for Informatics, Computing, and Networking (AdRIC) of the College of Computer Studies that investigates the science of complex adaptive systems and explores innovative ways of interacting with computing solutions. Aside from performing research, the center also functions as a development laboratory for the creation of various civic computing solutions, integrating research done internally.
It is currently composed of lead researchers, cohorts, and research assistants. The lead researchers come from the fields of computing, statistics, mathematics and physics. The cohorts and research assistants are students from the different programs and specializations under the College of Computer Studies.
COMET leverages its research in complex adaptive systems and computer-human interaction with the development of civic computing solutions. It also provides avenues for the professional growth of its lead researchers and cohorts.
Research Group (Faculty)
- Jordan Aiko P. Deja (ongoing Ph.D. Computer Science, University of Primorska): Lab Head
- Briane Paul V. Samson (Ph.D. Systems Information Science, Future University Hakodate)
- Rafael A. Cabredo (Ph.D. Information Science and Technology, Osaka University)
- Anish MS Shrestha (Doctor of Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology)
- Unisse C. Chua (M.Sc. Applied Urban Science and Informatics, New York University)
- Angelyn R. Lao (Ph.D. in Systems Biology, Rostock University)
- Robert Neil F. Leong (M.Sc. Statistics, De La Salle University)
- Al Rey C. Villagracia (Ph.D. Physics, De La Salle University)
Research Programs
Complex Systems
Urban cities and metropolitan areas have steadily grown in size and capacity due to urban migration, thus making them increasingly harder to monitor and predict. Add to that the increasing complexity of the different interactions between varieties of structures and their socio-economic influences; we cannot rely solely on reductionist approaches, human instinct and experiences in managing current problems and planning future expansions and developments. With the vast amount and availability of data that public and private institutions have amassed as part of their operations and processes, representative models can be created to analyze and uncover a city’s emergent behaviors.
Such modeling and simulation tools can make strides in supporting local and national governments make representative, sound and suitable planning decisions. Using models that rely on historical data, computing tools can be developed to better understand, manage and evaluate how dynamic systems, like cities, work, operate and live.
The Complex Systems group aims to become the leading research group in the Philippines in creating cutting-edge fundamental and applied research on the investigation of complex adaptive systems endemic to developing countries and its emerging urban districts. The group creates models and develop tools that will eventually allow different stakeholders to effectively plan their urban landscape, such as the mass transit systems, and social networks. Key technologies and theories to be explored are in the areas of computational science, bioinformatics, simulation and modeling, complex networks, systems theory, nonlinear dynamics, knowledge discovery, data science, and data visualization.
Seamless Interfaces
The Seamless Interactions group aims to build upon and contribute to this future of computational systems by (a) investigating the different ways we interact with digital information and services, and; (b) designing and building interfaces that are intuitive and well integrated into our daily lives, providing better insights and strengthening interpersonal connections. The goal is to provide interfaces that allow seamless transitions between the physical and digital spaces. Specifically, the group shall generate and contribute to:
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- the discovery of interfaces and interactions that enable faster computer-human interaction while reducing cognitive load;
- the design of frameworks that enable a balanced interaction between human and computer teams; and
- the integration of innovative sensor and intelligent technology towards facilitating the learning process of a novice to becoming an expert user.
Civic Services
The increased use in mobile and web technologies can be utilized to promote stronger civic participation and improve the flow of information and services from the providers to their target beneficiaries. At the Civic Services group, we develop civic platforms and solutions that focus on various domains like community development, politics, disaster management, and smart cities.