Smitha Sheshadri

PhD candidate in Human Computer Interaction

Singapore Management University

About Me

I’m Smitha, a PhD candidate in the Human–Computer Interaction group at Singapore Management University (SMU). My research focuses on indoor positioning systems that leverage conversational interaction. Specifically, I study how natural language, combined with sensor data and behavioral models, can be integrated into positioning systems to improve performance in indoor environments. I am interested in designing low-cost, infrastructure-free, and human-centered approaches to spatial intelligence, and in understanding how conversational input can be used as a first-class signal in interactive systems.

Interests

Natural Language & Conversational Interfaces
User-as-sensor Solutions
Indoor Spatial Intelligence
Language Learning

Education

PhD in Computer Science, 2022 - Present
Singapore Management University (SMU)
MSc in Computer Science, 2018 - 2020
National University of Singapore (NUS)
B.Eng in Computer Science and Engineering, 2014 - 2018
Visvesvaraya Technological University, India

Projects & Publications

Sensing isn't enough! Supporting Inertial Indoor Tracking with Conversational Input

We developed a low-cost indoor tracking system that improves inertial sensor accuracy by incorporating user-provided conversational cues. Our approach combines smartphone IMU data with natural language descriptions of known indoor locations, enabling accurate tracking without requiring pre-installed infrastructure or situated data collection.

Enhancing Smartphone-based Inertial Indoor Tracking with Conversational User Input
S. Sheshadri, K. Hara
IMWUT 2025

Indoor Human Localization through Intelligent Conversation

We developed Conversational Localization, a sensorless indoor localization approach using natural language interactions. Our system estimates user location based on described surroundings, employing strategies to extract the most useful details.

Conversational Localization: Indoor Human Localization through Intelligent Conversation
S. Sheshadri, K. Hara
IMWUT 2024
Feasibility Studies in Indoor Localization through Intelligent Conversation
S. Sheshadri, L. Cheng, K. Hara
CHI EA 2022

Audio Description Customisation

Blind and low-vision people use audio descriptions to access videos. However, current ADs are unalterable by end users, thus are incapable of supporting BLV individuals’ potentially diverse needs and preferences. This research investigated if customizing AD could improve how BLV individuals consume videos.

Audio Description Customization
R. Natalie, R. Chang, S. Sheshadri, A. Guo, K. Hara
ASSETS 2024

Learn with Haptics: Improving Vocabulary Recall

Sensorimotor activation enhances learning, and we applied this principle to digital vocabulary learning by incorporating free-form digital annotation in mobile flashcard interfaces. By varying annotation type, presentation sequence, and haptic feedback, we identified a design that significantly improved retention, yielding a 24.21% increase in immediate recall and 30.36% improvement in 7-day delayed recall.

Learn with Haptics: Improving Vocabulary Recall with Free-form Digital Annotation on Touchscreen Mobiles
S. Sheshadri, S. Zhao, Y. Chen, M. Fjeld
CHI 2020

Highlights & Happenings

Academic Exchange: Hosting Undergrads from Tsinghua University

Conducted an interactive session for Xingya College (Tsinghua University) students at SMU, introducing indoor positioning and demoing my latest work. Fantastic energy and sharp questions!

November 2025 – SMU Buzzing with HCI Enthusiasts

Hosting ICHEC at SMU was fantastic! Volunteering gave us closer access to all the action, making the experience even more exciting and memorable.

IMWUT 2025!

Thrilled to share that our work was accepted to IMWUT / UbiComp 2025! We enabled smartphone-only tracking by strategically integrating conversational interaction, advancing continuous indoor localization without extra infrastructure.

Invited Speaker at FIT2025

Excited to be an invited speaker at FIT2025, presenting my work on Conversational Localization (September 2025)

Prototyping in the Wild

We recently tested our indoor tracking system in a museum and a mall. It was a fun chance to see our research in action. Huge thanks to the wonderful participants! (July 2025)

Presidential Doctoral Fellowship Award 2024-25

I received the award for my research contributions in natural language interfaces for indoor spatial intelligence, emphasizing sensorless localization.

Singapore HCI Meetup 2025

Met some lovely folks at the SG HCI Meetup 2025, where I demoed my work on conversationally improving indoor smartphone tracking.

IMWUT 2024 Presentation

I had a great time presenting our work in IMWUT 2024, held in Melbourne.

Demo at MOE Academic Research Council (ARC) Site Visit

At the Ministry of Education (MOE) Academic Research Council (ARC) Site Visit, I engaged with academic leaders and policymakers, discussing research and exchanging insights on human-centered technology.

Sharing with Global Young Scientists Summit 2024

I had the opportunity to share my work with young researchers from around the world at GYSS 2024, engaging in discussions and exchanging ideas with peers and experts.

Singapore HCI Meetup 2024

The Singapore HCI Meetup is a national gathering of researchers, designers, and practitioners. At the 2024 event, I presented my ongoing work and engaged with experts in human-centered technology.