| Tangible user interfaces for learning systems thinking | |||
| Key words : Physical prototyping, screen prototyping, Tangible manipulatives, children, play, learning, nature | |||
| Skills used: Physical prototyping, Flash prototyping, Illustration, game design, interaction design | |||
User testing, Eco-Pod prototype |
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| Abstract |
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My thesis explores how manipulable objects in the context of games can A tangible user interface (TUI ) typically uses manipulable 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 appealto 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 Thesis Committee Done with InstantSOUP and Wiring |