Ruge’s journal  23fall

- Semester one 👾

  1. Human sense
  2. Air
  3. Pigeons
  4. Shadows
  5. Skin




UX of  Digital  ShadowYuning, Saranya, Ruge, Xiaolin, Dina
We conducted a memorial interview in the college, measuring the numerical shadows of memories.

Collecting data
Final project
(Please forgive me for using multiple languages to describe this project; it has evoked many emotions and reflections.)


Process


Interviews and Storytelling
The Director's Story Research Site
When employing the directed storytelling research method, we initially set eight questions, each specifically focused on digital heritage, yielding rich responses. However, feedback revealed that this format leaned more towards 'interviews' and 'surveys' rather than 'storytelling.' Later, after consulting psychology books, I learned that in such conversations, we should act as a 'mirror,' using guiding words to let users complete their stories independently, aiming for minimal interference and guidance. This was enlightening for me, suggesting that our previous questions were too 'directive,' possibly predefining answers rather than listening to users' genuine and complete voices. It's in these authentic emotions and narratives that tremendous value lies.



Digital Interaction and Emotional Linking
Digital Interactive Map
Saranya, Yuning, and I playfully created portraits of each other ( really cute). I crafted a digital interactive map attempting to explore our digital interactions, revealing a certain level of 'closeness' in our relationships. The intertwining of relationships between individuals is not only evident in the physical world but also extends into the virtual realm, showcasing the complex interconnections between people in both the real and online worlds.



Light and Shadow with Occlusion

At the beginning, our project presentation methods were uncertain; we experimented with flashlights and paper to create 'shadows.' However, for the final exhibition, we opted to hang the project on the window, allowing natural light to complete our design. Due to time constraints, the final presentation may not have been as perfect as desired, but I still cherish this presentation style. I believe we were inspired by 'In Praise of Shadows.'


Reflections on data collection


It was a school-wide survey where we used five sheets of paper as our data collection boards, prominently placed at the entrance corridor of the college. Initially worried about participation, our concerns quickly faded as hundreds of flower cutouts were all used up! While collecting memories, many people shared their own stories with us, some of which brought tears to our eyes (we even collected tissues touched by tears). Writing down my memories on paper and resonating with others was a strangely wonderful feeling. It made me feel connected to others through this shared memory event, creating a deeper and broader emotional link.

Research site1
Research site2
Of course, there are many areas where we need improvement. During the data collection process, I felt our early preparations were insufficient, such as the placement of props (we simply used a chair for stickers and other items). Our task instructions were casually placed on the collection board's edge (too many words on the task prompts!), and so on. At the beginning, the scene was a bit chaotic! However, these aspects genuinely influenced people's experience of our project.


Future developments

Production process
Tissues touched by tears
I believe there is room for improvement in this project, both in the mid-term rehearsals and the final presentation. The collection of tissues touched by tears at the end was a poignant display, but we didn't have more time to refine the project. I hope to continue this project someday in the future.



Other photos



Summaries

Week1
The first week always passes by joyfully and swiftly. The reading list for this week provided me with a lot of inspiration. Junichiro Tanizaki believes that under natural light, the shapes and textures of objects become more prominent, while in shadows, they exhibit a mysterious and profound beauty. He emphasizes how the presence of shadows imparts depth and a sense of layers to things. This understanding of light and shadow is intriguing, and I want to apply it to our project. The main focus of this project is relatively challenging for our group; we need to complete the work within many frameworks and constraints.


Week2
Admittedly, the second week was quite challenging for our group. We faced daily obstacles in advancing our plan. Nevertheless, despite the difficulties, the Shadow project has become one of my favorites. It prompted significant reflections for me, not only in terms of learning and project-related insights but also in contemplating group collaboration. In the short span of two weeks, we experienced moments of frustration, yet Yuning, Saranya, and I consistently supported each other. We frequently questioned our decisions, wondering if our choices were correct or if we were deviating too far from the theme of 'shadow.' However, I believe these moments of struggle and contemplation were a result of our in-depth consideration of the topic. Our open communication and willingness to question and appreciate each other's ideas created a comfortable atmosphere for collaboration. While I don't want to delve too much into learning reflections in this project summary, as important as it is, I feel the most valuable takeaway is encountering exceptional team members.


UAL_LCC_MA-UX2023-2024