Phoenix Perry, MSc Creative Computing Course Leader at UAL Creative Computing Institute is known for her work in physical games and embodied experiences.
Aligned with her outspoken advocacy for a fairer landscape to women working in game development, she has envisioned an environment where students are encouraged to learn by making and to explore the relationship between critical theory, technical and practical knowledge.
This unique offering has attracted a diverse body of students, which is not usually seen on Computer Science degrees.
She holds an iMS from NYU Tandom School of Engineering and was a Lecturer in Physical Computing, as well as the Programme leader of the Independent Games and Playable Experience MA at Goldsmiths University.
Bits and Bytes
Recently, Perry and CCI launched Bits and Bytes, a “non-threatening, gentle and playful” video series introduction to creative technology, creators and activism.
The series aims to demystify some of the preconceptions often linked to creative technology and introduces inspiring creators. It also dives into remaining ethically engaged and fostering meaningful connections in the field of Computer Science.
The first episode introduces Helen Leigh, a creative technologist and author of books on music tech and crafty electronics. The series can be watched on the CCI Youtube channel.
Technology for all
Perry intersects her drive for social engagement with her academic and professional background, demonstrating that technology should be widely accessible for everyone.
These are lessons that are passed on to her cohort throughout the course of the programme.
"Technology is not going to liberate us; it’s not going to set us free (…) nothing I can do or say will change that, but what I can do is give people a really strong grounding and a way of seeing the world and a way of thinking that lets them go out and become changemakers"
Alongside her work at UAL CCI, her advocacy work has been translated into initiatives such as the Tech for all Conference, a free 5-day online conference on digital accessibility and assistive technology which ran this February, or the Code Liberation Foundation, a foundation that teaches creative programming skills pro-bono to non-binary and girl-identifying people and has already reached more than 3000 students.
Recently, CCI and Code Liberation have collaborated on the delivery of an online course on independent video game creation.
“At Code Liberation, I wasn’t just teaching girls to code, I was teaching people how to find their voices and to use technology to tell their stories and really communicate their hopes and dreams,” she recounted.
Perry’s work is at the intersection of technological advances and cultural and social empathy. She works on a technology that connects, doesn’t judge and is open to all.
“Everything that’s really important, women gave Computer Science. I don’t feel uncomfortable in this field because I belong here; seeing me in a leadership role helps other women know that’s possible,” she concluded.
Stay tuned to the Creative Computing Institute Youtube channel for regular new episodes of Bits n Bytes and hit the subscribe button to be notified.
More
- Find out more about MSc Creative Computing
- MSc Creative Computing: Open Day
- Watch more videos on the Creative Computing Institute Youtube channel
- CCI newsletter sign-up