Why sensory design? Extract from reading pack

 I need to start creating and getting a bit more productive but this reading felt like a bit of bridge between reading and creating, connecting to pretty much everything I've done thus far. This extract was recommended during the first/most recent discussion of work and it felt like a good way to expand and start exploring thoughts and ideas specifically to do with interactive/tactile design.

Why sensory design? A good question...

(purely digital reading & note making this time)









As is quite clear, the beginning of the reading was much more useful and engaging than the second half.

Whilst the content of the text isn't overly relevant to ADHD as such, I like this idea of levelling the playing field. Creating something that has to be interacted with to be understood, something that no one will look at and understand straight away, much how I can't necessarily read a body of text within seconds and understand it! I'm also intrigued by the idea of using symbolism and social connections to create a calming piece/environment that may help to slow the mind and focus. Possibly combining all senses or focusing on one or two less commonly used senses - textures that create sound when interacted with.

Something I have been thinking about with all of this research is making sure I don't, possibly without even meaning to, create something adolescent that is actually aimed at adults. I need to consider who the audience is and how I can potentially produce an interactive piece of design aimed at adults - something new to say as that isn't something you come across much outside of technology.




Separately, it terms of this research method (purely digital) I found it somewhat easier to keep my thoughts in one place but it certainly felt cramped, like I didn't have any room for my own ideas to wonder and develop in the moment. I have definitely found that using post it notes lately helps with my often chaotic way of idea generation. Not so great for the environment which I will eventually address and find new ways of working but post it notes do seem to be less daunting to get ideas down onto!



And on the subject of post it notes...




An idea that came to me whilst in this weeks session - based on a stamp structure I've seen a multitude of times in the 3D workshop. Not entirely sure how it would work but I like the idea! Could be either text or image based.





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