Many menstruation-tracking apps are now available, allowing women to log data about their period. The data collected may include cycle dates, moods, symptoms, physical effects, aspects of intimacy, and more. As noted in a recent ABC news article, the level of privacy protections in these apps varies, and many do not appear to have been designed by women for women. If the needs of women are not at the app’s core, they may not have appropriately designed privacy protections.
The QUT Law School and the Digital Media Research Centre are running a two-day workshop for women* that examines how menstruation tracking apps might better inform women about data collection usage.
The workshop aims to design new consent, transparency and disclosure mechanisms for menstruation-tracking apps that better respects sensitivity, diversity and femininity. Each participant group will produce a series of ideas and design artefacts that developers can use for future design improvements. Cash prizes are available for the winning teams (chosen by a panel of experts based on predefined criteria). Complementary food and refreshments are provided for all participants throughout the workshop.
Workshop details
Dates: Friday 21 July and Saturday 22 July 2023
Time: 9:00am to 5:00pm each day
Location: Gibson Room, Level 10, Z Block, Gardens Point Campus, 2 George Street, Brisbane
Catering: Morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea will be provided for all participants.
Prizes: Cash prizes are available for the winning teams (chosen by a panel of experts based on predefined criteria).
Parking: Complimentary parking will be provided for all participants.
Registration: Required. If you would like to participate, register online.
If you would like to know more about the workshop, then please email Professor Mark Burdon or Dr Rachel Hews.
We look forward to seeing you there.
*this workshop is for women only
