Prompt
In this exercise, pairs explore the affordances of everyday objects by simulating physical or sensory limitations. Participants perform tasks with the object under these constraints, identifying challenges and designing a low-fidelity prototype to improve usability.
Instructions
- Pair up with another student (5 mins) Form pairs to explore the affordances of everyday objects.
- Choose an Object (5 mins) Each pair selects one objects to examine (e.g., mug, scissors, smartphone).
- Perform Tasks (10 mins) Have your partner perform typical tasks with the chosen objects under the simulated limitations * (e.g., thick gloves for handling a mug, blurred glasses for using a smartphone). Identify specific challenges related to the chosen object's affordances based on your observations ( What actions became more difficult? How did the object's design hinder or help in completing tasks?).
- Design Prototype (60 mins) Work with your partner to design and build a simple, low-fidelity prototype that enhances the affordance of the object for the identified task using the provided materials.
- Test Prototype (10 mins) Test the prototype with the simulated limitations in place.
- Iterate Design: Refine the design based on feedback and observations to improve its effectiveness.
- Documentation & Reflection: Take photos of the simulated limitations and the designed prototype. In your post, describe the limitations you simulated, the tasks explored, and the design process for your prototype. Include photos and a brief explanation of how the prototype enhances affordance. Post your slides in the "Responses" tab at the top of this page.
*(meaning: temporarily and cautiously impair how they move or use their senses in the world).
Time 90 mins
Materials
- Common objects (e.g., mugs, scissors, smartphones)
- Low-fidelity prototyping materials: Cardboard, Tape, Scissors, Utility knives, Rulers, Pencils, Cutting mats, Optional: hot glue guns.
- Documentation supplies (cameras, notebook)
Examples
Mug/Cup:
- Problem: Difficulty gripping or holding, especially with limited dexterity or strength.
- Possible Solutions: Design handles or grips that are easier to hold, insulated to maintain temperature.
Scissors:
- Problem: Hard to use with limited hand strength or dexterity.
- Possible Solutions: Create a mechanism that requires less force or allows use with different grip styles.
Smartphone:
- Problem: Small buttons and screens can be challenging for those with visual impairments or limited fine motor skills.
- Possible Solutions: Design larger buttons or voice-activated controls, improve tactile feedback.
Remote Control:
- Problem: Small buttons and complex layouts can be confusing or difficult to use.
- Possible Solutions: Simplify button layout, enhance tactile differentiation between buttons.
Door Handle:
- Problem: Hard to turn or grasp, especially for those with arthritis or limited hand strength.
- Possible Solutions: Design handles that are easier to push or pull, or require less force.
Cutlery (Fork, Spoon, Knife):
- Problem: Hard to hold and use with limited grip strength or coordination.
- Possible Solutions: Create ergonomic handles that are easier to grip, add weight for better control.
Keyboard:
- Problem: Typing can be difficult for those with limited fine motor skills or repetitive strain injuries.
- Possible Solutions: Design larger keys or alternative input methods (e.g., voice typing).
Zipper
- Problem: Difficult to grasp and pull, especially for those with arthritis.
- Possible Solutions: Design larger, easier-to-grasp zipper pulls or alternative closure methods.
Chair:
- Problem: Hard to sit down or get up for those with limited mobility.
- Possible Solutions: Design chairs with supportive armrests, adjustable heights, or reclining features.
Pen/Pencil:
- Problem: Hard to grip and write with for those with limited dexterity.
- Possible Solutions: Create ergonomic grips, adaptive writing aids.
Jar Lid:
- Problem: Hard to open with limited hand strength.
- Possible Solutions: Design jar openers or alternative sealing mechanisms.