In SYMBIOTIK we have been recently exploring how generative AI can enhance human cognition and interaction. Our recent work contributes to this vision by investigating how text-to-image generation can support memory and learning.
Nuwan (UCLouvain) and Luis (Luxembourg) attended IUI 2025, the ACM conference on Intelligent User Interfaces that focuses on state-of-the-art advances at the intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Human-Computer Interaction. The IUI conference is known for its rigorous review process and this year was held in Cagliari, Italy, bringing together academics, industry experts and innovators from around the world.
Nuwan presented the paper “Text-to-Image Generation for Vocabulary Learning Using the Keyword Method”, which explores how text-to-image generators can support vocabulary retention when combined with the keyword method. We received thoughtful questions from the audience that truly shed new light on future directions. Also we won the Best Paper Award!
Apart from presenting our work, Nuwan chaired the “Generative Models” session, which featured papers discussing the latest advancements in generative models and their applications in social contexts. Luis chaired the “Multimodal AI” session, where researchers showcased interesting projects about User Interface understanding with Large Language Models.
The peak moment that everyone was looking forward on the fourth day of the conference was the conference’s social dinner. Picture this: a lively venue, colleagues unwinding after days of intense discussions, and the organizers taking the stage to announce the awards. When they called out “Text-to-Image Generation for Vocabulary Learning Using the Keyword Method” as the Best Paper, I felt a rush of pride and disbelief. Winning at an A-ranked conference like IUI is no small feat, it’s a testament to the rigor and innovation of our work. The applause from the IUI community was a moment I’ll carry with me for years.
This award isn’t just a personal achievement; it’s a recognition of our team’s dedication and the SYMBIOTIK project’s vision. We’re deeply grateful to the IUI organizers, reviewers, and attendees for this honor, and to my co-authors and colleagues for their unwavering support.
References
Nuwan T. Attygalle, Matjaž Kljun, Aaron Quigley, Klen Čopič Pucihar, Jens Grubert, Verena Biener, Luis A. Leiva, Juri Yoneyama, Alice Toniolo, Angela Miguel, Hirokazu Kato, and Maheshya Weerasinghe. 2025. Text-to-Image Generation for Vocabulary Learning Using the Keyword Method. In Proceedings of the 30th International Conference on Intelligent User Interfaces (IUI ’25). Association for Computing Machinery, New York, NY, USA, 1381–1397. https://doi.org/10.1145/3708359.3712073