Part 1: Students will analyze the user experience of ADM building. Carefully observe and document with photos the way finding of the building (location, entrances/exits, signage, spatial organization etc.). Look at its ease of use. Observe how the design of the building affects behavior. Be thoughtful and critical about what works and doesn’t work. Prepare a group presentation to share findings in class and discuss observations in the class.
Part 2: Find two maps of a building or place you have visited – one map is badly designed and the other is well designed. Be prepared to explain your examples and bring maps to class. Think of a time you were lost in a place and write in your journal how and why you got lost. What about the user experience didn’t work for you?
Part 3: Choose two objects that you use every day (you cannot pick mobile phones or laptop/computer) and analyze their design using the principles described in Chapter 1 of The Design of Everyday Things. Imagine describing what the object is and what it’s designed to do to someone who has never seen it before. Is it intuitive or frustrating? Come up with three ways to alternate the design for that object and see how it changes its function. Make drawings and notes in your journal.
Part 4: Write a response to the reading and write TWO questions on the writing. Write a minimum one paragraph to be emailed no later than midnight Saturday before the next class.