The method for design research that I was assigned to research was Semiotics. Below is my contribution to the class’s body of research and collection. The full resolution PDF of my contribution can be downloaded here.

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Assignment: Collect 1 example of design research and 2 examples of projects that ask a question (or questions)

soak wash rinse spin

Design Research: The process Tolleson used to redesign their work space.

soak wash rinse spin by Tolleson Design

Operation Invisible Monument – a project by the Pocho Research Society.

Question: Whose history did you learn?

Image and additional info here

XO Laptop

Question: “If every child in the world had access to a computer, what potential could be unlocked?” – Nicholas Negroponte

The also leads to questions about functionality. How do you provide children with internet access where there is no infrastructure? How do you make a laptop portable, durable, and able to withstand the harsh environments of these developing nations? What can be done to make the introduction of the device about play as well as information? How do you make an interface for a culture that has little or no reference to things like instant messaging, internet access, western musical instruments, and maybe even cameras?

The XO Laptop from the One Laptop Per Child

More info at laptop.org