3132 research outputs found
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Transportation Experiences of Autistic Young Adults: A Scoping Review and Proposal for Future Research
Full text linkBackground: Many news articles, online posts, and studies related to work and school highlight barriers to community mobility for Neurodiverse individuals. This scoping review aimed to to gain a comprehensive understanding of these challenges.
Methods: The search, conducted between January 2012 and January 2022, across platforms such as MEDLINE, Wiley, Taylor & Francis, Sage, and Google Scholar, yielded 56 relevant articles after eliminating duplicates and irrelevant studies. Articles fell into two main categories: those focusing on experiences and those examining interventions.
Results: Results indicate a scarcity of research directly investigating the mobility experiences of Neurodiverse individuals, with the majority centered on driving difficulties among Autistic adults. Moreover, only a small number of articles explored public transit or alternative transportation methods, despite many Neurodiverse individuals primarily relying on these modes. The interventions explored varied widely, including traffic training, transit apps, monitoring tools, specialized teaching, virtual reality, and autonomous vehicles.
Conclusion: Overall, there is emerging literature underscores the challenges faced by Neurodiverse individuals in driving and using public transit. However, due to limited qualitative and quantitative data, the mobility needs of neurodiverse individuals remains unclear. Additionally, it seems that most research originates from the United States and Australia, leaving a significant gap in understanding the Canadian context. Consequently, further investigation is warranted, particularly with the development of the National Autism Strategy. As such, the writer proposes a two-part qualitative study on the public transportation experiences of Autistic young adults
Community in the Making: Exploring opportunities to enhance the Canadian makerspace ecosystem
Full text linkAlthough makerspaces present opportunities to enhance community wellbeing and social innovation, the potential of the Canadian makerspace ecosystem has yet to be realized. In combining tools and methods from the fields of design thinking, systems thinking, and business strategy, this research reveals insights and identifies opportunities towards strengthening Canada’s makerspace ecosystem.
Community in the Making follows a three step methodology: Part 1 – Framing, Part 2 – Situating, and Part 3 – Learning. Part 1 begins by exploring the concept of makerspaces, their history, and their context within Canada’s social economy, through background research and a literature review. Part 2 then provides an overview of the makerspace climate in Canada, based on a research questionnaire, with a focus on existing makerspace attributes, structures, and business models. Lastly, Part 3 presents nine themes, and corresponding opportunities, developed from interviews and site visits, which suggest ways to enhance makerspace viability and elevate makerspace impact across Canada. These themes include:
- Measuring Magic: Converting Meaning(fulness) in Makerspaces;
- The Pursuit of Creativity;
- Placed-based Spaces;
- Third (maker)Space;
- Locked Out: Rentals and Real Estate;
- “Vibes” Are Everything;
- The Power of Partnerships;
- The Internal Economy; and
- Removing Barriers to Access.
The project concludes with the finding that makerspaces are far more than places to make; they are hubs for social innovation and creativity, and most importantly, vibrant communities integral to Canada’s creative ecosystem.
The hope is that this work will spark conversations and promote collaboration across Canada’s maker community, in an effort towards building a thriving makerspace ecosystem
Component Constellations: Future Perspectives on Design Systems
Full text linkDuring a time of rapid technological and economic change, shifting user preferences and heightened expectations, design systems stand as foundational tools for organizations committed to swiftly developing unified and seamless digital products and services at scale. These systems, which encapsulate a set of design standards, modular components, and design patterns, form a cohesive framework for delivering consistent user-centric applications, while promoting collaboration among product teams.
This research project employs strategic foresight methods to uncover promising transformations within design systems over the next seven years. The project will start by analyzing design system elements, processes, and stakeholders to understand their interdependencies and pinpoint possible directions for future development. It will then investigate the implications of recent emerging trends that could shape design systems of the future, exploring the impact of advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Extended Reality (XR) on the creation of digital products powered by design systems. The research concludes by presenting strategic recommendations for design system professionals to optimize the effectiveness of future design systems, ensuring their sustained innovation and relevance
Working Elements of a Dynamic Public Transport System
Full text linkWorking Elements of a Dynamic Public Transport System is a research and design study based on the development of a reinvented public transportation system for Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands. The research explores the current travel landscape of the island as well as the public transportation industry on a global and regional level, applying relevant technologies and related systems. The proposed design includes a two-part system with dynamic capabilities to utilize communication through technology and increase efficiency. An installation was developed to explore changes in behaviour and current practices of public transportation users. Public transportation, systems in technology and specific technologies and design thinking are mobilized throughout Working Elements of a Dynamic Public Transport System. Design Thinking both as an underlying methodology and as research method builds on a user centric point of view to develop more responsive systems that utilize the island's existing transit routes. Cognitive Semiotics in the context of signs and symbols applicable to transit was used to help drive the research process and is applied to drive the research process and Thinking Through Making in several creation of the prototypes and the final thesis exhibition.
Keywords: Transportation, Urban Design, Technology, Innovation, Communicatio
The Armadillo Project: Designing a modular birth shelter through biophilic and salutogenic design principles
Full text linkIn regions afflicted by disasters and high maternal mortality rates, the
occurrence of calamities amplifies the circumstances surrounding childbirth. In crisis
settings, nature and culture often face total devastation, and the existing
infrastructure for maternity care is compromised. This project strived to develop a
prototype for a transportable and secure birthing module that could be used in crisis
settings. Salutogenic and biophilic design approaches were utilized to create a
secure shelter for birthing women, serving as a temporary refuge from challenging
environments. Using research through design methodology, the project further led to
the design of a larger maternity care complex composed of multiple modules. The
proposed birthing pod, along with the developed maternity care complex,
represents an initial prototype for a portable design solution that can provide
improvements to maternal healthcare in crisis globall
a soft felt logic
Full text linkA soft felt logic is a textile exploration situated in the ‘soft felt’ experience, one which questions, prioritises, and plays with the sense of touch. I posit that this soft felt logic methodology can make sense of how touch - through tactile/textile experiences - is grounded in embodied action. I focus on the areas of “Touch, Colour, and Space” to explore the subject matter. The accompanying show hands holding, holding held at Ignite Gallery, Toronto displays a series of wall and floor-based hand-woven forms that present an invitation to feel. Through the development of these forms, I ask how the use of material creates visual and physical textures that stimulate a yearning to touch both for the perceiver and myself as the maker. To this end, what is this yearning? Through close material study, I look at factors like scale, pattern, placement, fibre, and colour to understand the impact of my designs and their relationship to a soft felt logic. Through the development of these forms, I investigate how colours, tones, and hues create dialogue and interactions that incentivise the perceiver to touch. Will distortion through colour selection impact the ability for a multi- or merged-sensorial experience of perception? I investigate the world around me, what spaces do craft objects occupy? Can building a soft felt logic create space for new methods of textile interaction to emerge? In touching these works, can a greater understanding and appreciation for the tactile/textile body emerge? I identify as a maker/craft practitioner, and this influences the methods I use within my making and research; it’s situated on the loom and betwixt my hands
FUTURE OF FINANCE IS INCLUSIVE - GROWING NEED FOR FINANCIAL ORGANISATIONS TO DESIGN AND DEVELOP FOR DIVERSITY
Full text linkIn the rapidly evolving financial services landscape, ensuring inclusivity has become a pivotal goal. This paper examines the importance of inclusivity in financial products and services, focusing on strategies to bridge gaps that exclude marginalized populations.
By conducting an extensive review of literature, case studies and primary research, this study aims to explore diverse perspectives on financial management across various demographic groups. It underscores the importance of developing and designing products that cater to diverse needs and addressing barriers like accessibility, age, gender, literacy levels, cultural considerations, economic status, risk-taking ability, money management, and financial acumen.
Inclusivity in financial product design is not only a matter of social responsibility but also a strategic imperative. It can lead to economic growth, reduced inequality, improved customer relationships, and a more resilient financial system. It aligns with ethical and legal considerations, making it essential for both financial institutions and society at large
Co-design for the Preservation and Visibility of the Traditions: A Case Study of the Quelqanqa Community in the Sacred Valley of Cusco
Full text linkIn the diverse heritage of Peru's cultural landscape lies the Sacred Urubamba Valley, a stronghold of ancient traditions and practices dating back to the time of the Incas. Amid modernization and globalization, the Quelqanqa community stands out as a symbol of Indigenous resilience, fiercely preserving their ancestral knowledge and way of life. However, the community faces various challenges, including tensions with government authorities, the influence of external NGOs, and the commercialization of their culture by the tourism industry. This research explores the power dynamics, cultural preservation efforts, and aspirations of the Quelqanqa community. Through a collaborative design approach, it aims to empower the community to reclaim control over their traditions and knowledge. Three main objectives guided this study: 1) understanding how priorities are negotiated with NGOs and local governments, 2) unraveling power dynamics within the community and its interactions with external stakeholders, and 3) exploring the potential of collaborative design approaches in fostering community-led decision-making processes. The methodology involved a series of workshops and interviews conducted within the Quelqanqa community, supplemented by insights from relevant NGOs and local government officials. Through group activities and open discussions, participants engaged in dialogue about internal power dynamics, external influences, and strategies for cultural preservation. This research revealed a surprisingly empowered Quelqanqa community, with a remarkably well-organized power structure that often goes unrecognized by outsiders. While some perceive the community as underdeveloped in terms of governance, this study reveals that the Quelqanqa community excels in democratic decision-making within the community and with external actors. They demonstrate skills in priority setting, negotiation dynamics, and collaboration, effectively navigating relationships with stakeholders
A Story of Unspoken Efforts of Elaine Drover Designing Hi-Tech Augmentative & Alternative Communication Systems with Individuals with Cerebral Palsy
Full text linkThis paper explores the communication challenges and opportunities associated with Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems through the lens of Elaine Drover, a woman in her 60s with cerebral palsy (CP) from Newfoundland, Canada. Employing a 'with' rather than 'for' philosophy, this design research project utilizes a three- dimensional framework of inclusive design, which includes recognizing and respecting human uniqueness and variability, using open and transparent processes, and co- designing with those who find current designs challenging. This approach addresses the necessity of designing within complex adaptive systems and highlights the significance of co-design methodologies. By integrating personal narratives and collaborative design, the study investigates the specific needs of individuals with cerebral palsy, aiming to dismantle communication barriers and foster a more inclusive society. The findings emphasize the importance of understanding user needs, goals, and contexts, particularly when developing essential tools that require substantial personal investment. This research not only provides insights into enhancing current AAC systems but also proposes a foundation for future technological innovations in assistive communication, advocating for a shift towards more empathetic and inclusive design practices
Body of Aesthetics: The therapeutic potential of aesthetics
Full text linkRealized in response to the loneliness epidemic that we are facing as a society, this body of research seeks to gain a better understanding of the curatorial in the context of care, revealing its potential to positively affect well-being. Body of Aesthetics investigates the multimodality of aesthetic experience, beyond the ocularcentricity of formal aesthetics, to explore the therapeutic potential of aesthetic experiences to combat loneliness. The findings are presented in two parts: (1) a methodology, and (2) a practice. As a methodology, Body of Aesthetics offers a new way to approach curation in the context of care, without being prohibitive or prescriptive. The titular exhibition presents this methodology in practice; serving as a case study, the exhibition demonstrates how curators can support individual and social well-being through aesthetic practices.
The Body of Aesthetics exhibition features artists Orus Mateo Castaño-Suárez and Artemis Han who respond to the injustices faced by the body as it is reduced to a means of production, and through its subjugation by the medical gaze. Each artist addresses a perceived social or political injustice in contemporary mental health diagnosis and treatment, offering avenues for hope. The accompanying catalogue essay examines these themes further, weaving them into a narrative about a being that has struggled over centuries to resolve itself. Torn asunder by the ego of philosophical and medical hegemony, and isolated by oppressive, modifying punctuation, it embarks on a journey to reconcile and reinvent itself, supported by the concerted effort of contemporary philosophers, anthropologists, and medical practitioners who recognize its plight