Welcome to Week 1 – we’re off!
It’s time to read the first chapter. Below are some questions to think on as you read, and to discuss when you’ve finished. We’ll use this thread for discussion – jump in when you’re ready.
Summary
Design isn’t an easy thing to do well, especially when technology is involved. It’s supposed to improve the quality of our lives, but will frequently do the opposite. This is a paradox and a force that we must seek to overcome.
Questions to keep in mind while you’re reading:
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Consider past design projects you’ve worked on. How did the end result compare with your original vision and early designs? Was the end product a compromise? Did it mature and improve with changes?
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Assessing a product by its affordances does not take into account the context in which the product is used. A product can be used in very different way, some of which may not have been the use intended by the designer. Can you think of any examples of times where your work has been repurposed for a use that you didn’t intend? Could you have communicated your intended use more clearly?
Questions for after you’ve read the chapter:
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What were the key points made in this chapter?
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What are the implications of these points on your own work?