CHArt is an interdisciplinary laboratory that has been awarded, along with 22 other research units, the Institut Carnot badge.

Its aim is to study natural and artificial cognitive systems and their pragmatic and semantic interactions. It applies the methods and techniques of experimental science, and computer modelling and simulation bringing together cognitive, mathematical and algorithmic science. The modelling of any complex system requires experiments followed by data processing using computer analysis systems designed to simulate and predict the features of the complex system studied, extracting knowledge and detecting patterns. The research conducted at CHArt takes place on three levels:

• Level 1: research on human behaviour, usually in complex learning situations or decision-making contexts (Shifting the boundaries of knowledge).
• Level 2: research on digital technologies, systems that are increasingly becoming genuine cognitive and artificial systems that make decisions by themselves or assist in human decision-making, and which above all offer the possibility of modelling and simulating human behaviour in situations, taking into account the complexity of the processes and mechanisms involved (Participating in knowledge learning with a view to specific applications).
• Level 3: research on interactions between individuals and the environment, as well as inter-individual interactions when these are performed using digital technologies. Studying the uses and new forms of interaction through digital technologies is essential for developing systems that are better adapted to human needs. This requires an interdisciplinary approach, one of CHArt’s defining principles. Researching human intelligence in parallel with artificial intelligence allows us to make valuable contributions to the field of innovation, providing advice to designers and industry players. For example, we can study how a navigation system can integrate human movements as well as change them (Developing direct solutions for social, economic or cultural issues).

The development of cognitive technologies combining mathematics and algorithms with models of cognition and behaviour, paired with cognitive science modelling and simulation and experimental science methods and techniques allow CHArt to pursue research at these three levels. This spans both fundamental and targeted research, proof of the synergy achieved between the two.

Research areas:

• Cognitive technologies
• Modelling and simulation of cognitive processes and social interactions
• Cognition and decision-making
• Cognitive science and education, digital systems and learning
• Disability and technologies
• Cognition and adaptability