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My thesis explores how manipulable objects in the context of games can
help children learn systems thinking. Inspired by existing methods
that use playful activities and tangible devices to teach logical and mathematical
operations, I designed a series of games that utilize tangible
interface s in a playful learning experience.
A “tangible user interface” (TUI ) typically uses manipulable
objects, rather than keyboard and mouse, to interact with software operations.
The main feature of TUIs is their ability to represent and control digital
information in a physical manner, mediating computational operation in a
fashion that is not identified usually as computer-based.
Systems thinking is a holistic way of looking at the world. It looks at
the world as an assemblage of interrelated components comprising a unified
whole. The relationship of elements in the system facilitates the flow of
data, matter or energy between them. Learning systems thinking at an early
age offers children new perspectives on the world, and develops the cognitive
skills needed to organize, represent and interpret how the world works.
My design methodology comprised a sequence of prototype games, each followed
by user testing. In each design session I started from an initial aim that
derived from my research or previous exploration, designed and built a functional
prototype, tested it with users, and drew conclusions that led me to the
next stage.
An adult can have a wonderful imagination, expressive powers and
tools that allow them create amazing things. However, adult cognitive
abilities are different then children abilities. To understand what will appeal
to children, how children perceive things and what does not work, one should
test their ideas at first hand. In my thesis, I tried to let children guide
my design process. I have done that with the games, drawing books and computerized
prototypes that they played with. The path I took led me to successfully design
the Power Eco-Pod, a TUI-controlled system that mimics nature and allows children
to learn through play the core principles of systems thinking.
Thesis Committee
Thesis Coordinator: Simona Maschi
Primary Advisor: Massimo Banzi
Secondary Advisor: Phil Tabor
Director and Chair of Examiners: Gillian Crampton Smith
Done with InstantSOUP and Wiring
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