Group Research Project - Report

Interaction Lab Documentation by Valery Magne

COOL 

Valery Magne-Ariel Jiang-Enes Sissenbi-Melissa Miao

PART ONE

1.PLANNING 

Team Members

• Valery Magne Merida

• Ariel Jiang

• Enes Sissenbi

• Melissa Miao

PROJECT OBJECTIVE 

The specific challenge our team is choosing is digital addiction. We know that as people increasingly rely on digital interactions and virtual experiences, face-to-face communication and real-world relationships are suffering. Our goal is to strengthen community ties and bring people together. We want to create an interactive project that helps people build real connections. Therefore, this project will combat social isolation and promote joy, helping citizens feel more connected to their neighbors and families.

teamwork dynamics

• Research and Ideation

  • Responsible Member(s): Valery, Ariel, Enes, Melissa

  • Description: Research the chosen challenge, Brainstorm potential solutions, Propose ideas and resources

• Design and Artifact Construction

  • Responsible Member(s): Enes, Ariel, Melissa, Valery

  • Description: Sketch initial designs, Plan the user interface and interaction, Create the physical artifact using available materials (cardboard, plastic bottles, chopsticks, paper, etc.), Build other props for performance as needed

• Performance Planning

  • Responsible Member(s): Ariel, Enes

  • Description: Write the script for the performance, Incorporate elements of drama, storytelling, and humor, Performance rehearsal and Identification of potential issues, Ensure the performance highlights both the functionality and limitations of the artifact

• Documentation 

  • Responsible Member(s): Melissa, Valery, Enes and Ariel 

  • Description: Document the project process, Take pictures and videos of everything you do.

Communication and Collaboration

• Weekly Meeting Day/Time: 1 time per week, saturday 14:00-18:00 PM

• Communication platform: Wechat, oflline(ima lab)

2. Cutting  and building the parts of the machine 

3.Paint the machine, Paste Buttons & microphones 

4.Decoration 

5.Final Prototype

4.Critical analysis and assessment of "cool"

Successes and the failures of the artifact

Successes

☑️ Create an interactive artifact to stop social isolation 

☑️ design a creative prototype to create real-world relationships 

☑️ invent a Interactive project to motivate people to have face-to-face communication

☑️ Develop an innovative project that helps society stay connected offline in a fun way

☑️ construct a interactive device that is capable to generate interpersonal bonds 

Failures 

✖️ Citizens might hesitate to use the machine due to safety concerns

✖️ Some people may feel overwhelmed or anxious interacting with others in public

✖️ The machine's limitation of only allowing two users at a time may discourage larger groups from participating

✖️ Technical issues could arise, leading to frustration or negative experiences for users

✖️ Weather conditions could affect the usability and enjoyment of the machine

Relationship between the identified interaction of research

The project "cool" effectively addresses the Connection Paradox, which illustrates how our dependence on digital interactions harms face-to-face communication and real-world relationships. As a result of spending more time online, many people feel increasingly isolated from their communities and families. To stop this issue, the project encourages individuals to sing and pose together at the interactive machine. Additionally, participants are rewarded with cool air conditioning for their efforts. This approach not only promotes engagement but also creates opportunities for meaningful in-person connections, strengthening relationships and rebuilding a sense of community.

clear demonstration of artifact functionality

In our performance, we clearly demonstrated the functionality of the machine. First, Melissa and Ariel participated in the pose game, showcasing one aspect of the artifact. Then, two other participants, Valery and Enes, collaborated to highlight the karaoke feature. This demonstration effectively illustrated the machine’s principal function: bringing people together and encouraging interaction.

critical analysis of technology's complexity

In our performance, there was a specific moment when Melissa and Ariel stopped using their phones while engaging with the machine. This highlights the project’s message that, even in a futuristic context, old machinery can be reintroduced to remind society that technology can connect people rather than distance them. By demonstrating how this interactive device encourages face-to-face interaction, we illustrated the complex nature of technology in a critical way. It shows that while modern technology often leads to isolation, older forms can foster meaningful connections and improve social bonds.

suggested changes for improvement 

After finishing our performance, we received some tough feedback from our professor, Andy garcia. He mentioned that we should have showcased our performance more effectively. If we were to make improvements to our project, we would definitely focus on creating a better script and practicing more. Additionally, we could develop a simpler prototype to allow us to dedicate more time to refining the script. Moreover, we should consider other possibilities for engaging the audience and enhancing the overall experience.

 PART two

5.Critical analysis and assessment of "opticonnect..." performance

name of the project

• opticonnect...

criteria of the assignment 

The group created an interactive artifact called OptiConnect, designed to help people in various aspects of their lives. However, the lenses associated with this technology were deemed very dangerous. Despite the risks, the government distributed these lenses to every family, promoting the idea that they could enhance connectivity and improve interactions within the community. While OptiConnect aimed to foster connections, the potential dangers of the lenses raised significant concerns about their safety and the implications for users.

performance quality 

The performance effectively demonstrated the quality and use of the lenses in an engaging manner. Specifically, it included a TV news segment that highlighted the impact of the lenses; however, the story took a dramatic turn when the person wearing the lenses died. This moment not only illustrated the dangers of technology but also emphasized the risks that remain even after many years of use. Overall, the performance was well executed and successfully conveyed the complexities of using the lenses, as it emphasized both their advantages and the significant risks involved. 

suggestions and improvements 

I found the moment when the man died to be engaging and dramatic. however, I believe it would have been beneficial to prepare the audience for this event. Since it happened so quickly, the audience didn’t have enough time to fully understand what was occurring. Therefore, providing more context and building up to this moment could improve the impact and clarity of the performance, allowing the audience to better understand the significance of the event.