design303reflections

[design303reflections]

Week 10 Reflection – DES303

Theme: Accessibility, Layout Refinement & Final Presentation Planning

Present Situation: Achieving a Significant Milestone

Pulse: Freedom in Motion experienced a major change in momentum this week. After putting the app's basic framework in place, I concentrated on improving accessibility, honing the user interface, and getting ready for the final presentation. This stage of development has felt more like purposeful refinement than starting from scratch, with every modification based on usability and inclusivity.

I started rearranging the interface to make it more logical and easy to use, especially for new users. Improved navigational consistency, larger font sizes for readability, and more deliberate spacing between UI elements were all implemented. In order to demonstrate the user experience from onboarding to important features, I also started working on the presentation format and made the decision to make a video walkthrough. As we approach the last stages, obtaining video and making a storyboard for this has taken centre stage.

Using accessibility as a basis for design

I've begun to incorporate accessibility into every design choice rather than treating it as an afterthought. I incorporated text-to-speech functionality that enables users to tap any element and obtain an audio description, drawing inspiration from Google's I/O resources on inclusive design (Google, 2023). This gives users with dyslexia or vision impairments a multimodal way to interact and navigate, which is especially helpful.

In order to modify contrast ratios, button sizes, and element spacing, I also referred to the WCAG 2.1 framework and Material Design's accessibility guidelines. The layout is now more user-friendly, both aesthetically and interactively, with a focus on clear content hierarchy and screen reader compatibility. Regardless of age, skill level, or level of tech experience, the app should feel friendly and easy to use.

Iterative Solutions and Technical Difficulties

Even so, I ran into a few technical difficulties. When video content was directly integrated into the app, compatibility and file size issues were discovered. In order to find a reliable solution, I'm currently testing various formats, including.mp4 and.webm, across Android versions. In the meantime, the text-to-speech API caused overlap problems when users navigated quickly, despite its effectiveness. In order to avoid confusion and sensory overload, I created logic that, if a new element is tapped too quickly, cancels out previous speech.

Considering Self-Development and Feedback

Many of the improvements made this week were influenced by prior feedback that focused on enhancing new user usability and onboarding. Two significant changes that were well received during informal user testing were simplified menus and consistent audio feedback. With audio guidance verifying their choices, users found the app more comforting and easier to understand.

This week, I've felt both stretched and focused. It has been difficult to juggle accessibility modifications, layout updates, and video planning, but I'm learning to divide the work into smaller, more doable tasks. I've been able to stay calm and productive by adopting a "one challenge at a time" mentality.

Above all, this week made me appreciate inclusive design even more. It's simple for us designers to fall back on what suits us. However, we create better and more human products when we take into account a larger spectrum of users, such as those with visual impairments, neurodivergence, or varying literacy levels.

Evidence of Learning

The following factors directly impacted this week's changes:

Designing for accessibility is discussed in Google I/O, with a focus on multimodal input and output.

The Material Design Accessibility Guidelines for responsive elements, contrast, and spacing.

The World Wide Web Consortium (2018) established WCAG 2.1 guidelines for visual hierarchy, screen reader compatibility, and keyboard navigation.

What Next Week I'll Do Differently

In anticipation of my final submission in Week 11, I intend to:

To control complexity, divide tasks into brief, testable milestones.

For the purpose of video syncing tests, record all narration audio beforehand.

Complete the screen captures of every app for the presentation video.

Before committing to design changes, get additional input from tutors and peers.

Verify compliance by comparing all accessibility features to the Material specifications and WCAG tools.

Conclusion

I firmly made the shift from building to refining this week. The app's usability, inclusivity, and warmth are now more important than its functionality. Accessibility is now a key component of my strategy, not just a feature but a way of thinking. I have a new opportunity to tell the story of Pulse, not just how it looks, but also what it means for users navigating movement, wellbeing, and digital engagement in their own unique way, by choosing to present my finished product as a video walkthrough.

References

Google. (2023). Designing for accessibility - Google I/O. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BuYKPVUiwPs Material Design. (n.d.). Accessible design overview. https://m3.material.io/foundations/accessible-design/overview World Wide Web Consortium. (2018). Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1. https://www.w3.org/TR/WCAG21/

[design303reflections]

Week 9 Reflection – DES303

Theme: Accessibility, Feedback, and Iterative Redesign

What I Did This Week

Analysing user feedback and turning it into useful design enhancements for Pulse: Freedom in Motion was the focus of this week. Earlier, I held a targeted user feedback session where participants provided input on four main areas: content, navigation, accessibility, and visual design. I started redesigning the app's main features based on their feedback, giving accessibility and clarity top priority. My objective was to make the app more inclusive and user-friendly while improving the user experience based on practical insights.

Feelings: From Uncertainty to Confidence

At first, I experienced a mixture of curiosity and anxiety. There was a subdued fear of how people would react to something I had spent so much time creating. But after I started reading their thoughts and recommendations, I felt inspired and reassured. Not only was the feedback critical, but it was also involved and constructive. The process felt collaborative because it was clear that people were interested in the app and wanted it to be successful. My perspective changed as a result of the experience from supporting design decisions to supporting iterative growth.

Evaluation: What Feedback Revealed

The comments pointed out both areas that needed improvement and areas that were strong. The idea of integrating progress tracking, mental health, and movement was well received by users. The general idea and variety of dance content were well received. But there were three main areas of worry:

The homepage's visual clutter made it difficult to concentrate.

For mobile-first interaction, sidebar navigation felt strange.

The sense of ownership was lowered by the lack of personalisation options.

More importantly, several users brought up accessibility issues, confirming the importance of going beyond superficial inclusion. More careful design was required in the areas of button sizes, colour contrast, screen reader support, and visual hierarchy.

Analysis: Insights from Redesigning with Empathy

Replacing the sidebar menu with a bottom navigation bar was one of the best ideas. This design decision is supported by research, as bottom navigation is more frequently utilised in mobile UX patterns and is simpler to reach with the thumbs (Babich, 2017). User interaction may significantly improve as a result of this minor change.

The desire for content personalisation was another significant realisation. Users desired the flexibility to change the tempo, tone, and level of difficulty. As a result, I started creating a special settings page that enables users to alter content based on their mood, energy level, and ability. Adaptive design theory, which supports a variety of users by providing flexible pathways instead of fixed tracks, is the direct inspiration for this (Clarkson et al., 2013).

The comments regarding colour schemes also caused me to reevaluate how inclusivity is impacted by visual tone. Despite its popularity, palette 4 was overly feminine and saturated. In order to achieve wider appeal while preserving visual character, I'm moving towards a neutral base with subdued accent colours going forward.

Examining the WCAG 2.1 accessibility guidelines was the most revolutionary element (World Wide Web Consortium, 2018). I started using best practices, such as clear text hierarchy, adequate contrast ratios, and larger tappable targets. I now view usability as a lens for moral, human-centered design rather than as a checklist after designing with universal access in mind.

Conclusion: Designing with Empathy and Openness

I've learned this week that conversation, not just inspiration, is the source of good design. The app has become more inclusive, targeted, and based on actual needs as a result of hearing user feedback and acting upon it. Pulse is developing into a genuinely human-centered tool, not just an expressive idea. Accessibility is a way of thinking, not a feature. This redesign process reaffirmed how design that is considerate, flexible, and sympathetic can reach a larger audience and foster greater interaction.

Plan of Action: Next Steps

My next actions to build on this week's progress are:

Complete the redesign of the home/dashboard and the updated bottom navigation bar.

Create a working settings page to customise the content.

Use the updated colour scheme for all user interface components.

Use WCAG tools to perform initial accessibility audits.

To get feedback on the redesign and find any lingering issues, conduct a brief usability test.

References

Babich, N. (2017). Bottom navigation: What it is and why it's useful. UX Planet. https://uxplanet.org/bottom-navigation-what-it-is-and-why-its-useful-d1f06f9a7ca0

Clarkson, J., Coleman, R., Hosking, I., & Waller, S. (2013). Inclusive design: Design for the whole population. Springer. https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-1-4471-0001-0

World Wide Web Consortium. (2018). Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1. https://www.w3.org/TR/WCAG21/

[design303reflections]

Week 8 Reflection - Des 303

Theme: Competitor Research, Homepage Design, and Vision Refinement

What I Did This Week

User interface development and competitor analysis were the main topics of discussion this week. I looked at a number of popular dance apps, including Body Groove, Just Dance Now, Steezy Studio, and Dance Reality, to learn about the latest trends in user experience, accessibility, and engagement tactics. I started improving Pulse: Freedom in Motion's homepage and Recent Songs screen based on this research. The homepage was made to lead users through three main sections: a statistics panel that shows both emotional and physical progress, a motivational dance feed, and their most recent tracks. In addition to motivational prompts and visual feedback on completion status, the Recent Songs panel now has buttons for posting a reflection or continuing a session.

Emotional Reaction to the Procedure

I was initially intimidated by how well-developed and well-known many of these rival apps were. It was simple to start comparing, especially since sites like Steezy provide slick navigation and cinematic tutorials. But that initial fear quickly gave way to inspiration. My idea gained a physical presence when I designed my homepage; it seemed as though the app was progressing from conception to reality. I was inspired by the potential impact my unique approach could have on users who are underserved by current apps and started to see its value.

Evaluation: Learning from Competitors

Analysing existing dance apps helped me identify both what’s working in the industry and where gaps remain. Each app has a clear focus—Steezy on skill-building, Just Dance Now on entertainment, Body Groove on free-form movement—but few offer a sense of personalised progress or long-term adaptability.

Just Dance Now is fun and accessible but doesn’t help users track their growth meaningfully.

Body Groove emphasizes feel-good movement, which is great, but lacks structured progression.

This revealed some key opportunities for Pulse:

Beginners or users with limited mobility are often overlooked by apps.

Not many platforms monitor user progress beyond video completion or streaks.

Adaptive movement patterns and emotional well-being are not given enough attention.

As a result, I made sure my homepage prioritises accessibility and customised feedback. I want to help users understand their own development as well as "do the dance" by visualising metrics like movement style, mood tracking, and rhythm accuracy. The layout hierarchy needed to be carefully considered when designing this; it took multiple design iterations to get the user's attention to move from "Recent Songs" to the motivational feed and then to their stats. Although striking a balance between functional depth and visual clarity was difficult, the end product feels solid and practical.

Analysis: Theory and Insights Applied

My knowledge of inclusive and values-driven design has grown as a result of this process. Taking inspiration from Norman's (2013) focus on affordance and visibility, I created an interface that is instantly comprehensible and easy to use. Completion markers like "65% learned" or "You've danced 4 times this week!" are in line with the principles of motivational design and promote what Fogg (2009) refers to as "tiny habits" brief, frequent feedback that fosters sustained user engagement.

Also, considering inclusive design frameworks gave rise to the concept of adaptive content (Clarkson et al., 2013). By offering both standing and sitting options, digital fitness spaces can move away from ableist defaults and support users with varying physical capabilities. In order for the app to clearly and respectfully serve users ranging from early teens to older adults, I'm also starting to implement age-inclusive design techniques, such as tone variation, content filtering, and simplified visual hierarchies.

One important foundation is still psychological motivation. Designing for autonomy, competence, and relatedness was my main focus when I revisited the Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 1985). Each action strengthens the user's sense of control and personal development. Users can review dances, share reflections, and monitor their own progress.

Conclusion: Insights and Evolving Vision

The core of my app became clearer this week. Pulse is a hybrid space that combines creativity, movement, and wellbeing to provide an inclusive means of self-expression. It is not just another dance platform. I've improved my comprehension of what makes my app unique and why it matters by researching the competition. I design not only for dancers but also for people who use movement to navigate their mental and physical health. I've also come to realise how strongly empowerment is ingrained in my design values. Every user should feel seen, supported, and celebrated on Pulse, whether they are a child gaining confidence or an adult getting better from an injury.

Plan of Action: Next Steps

To proceed, I intend to:

Complete the storyboards for the adaptive video's standing and sitting versions.

Add contextual hover information to the stats screen, such as what "rhythm accuracy" means.

To test layout and flow, create an interactive prototype with Adobe XD or Figma.

Start conducting light usability testing with colleagues, paying particular attention to visual hierarchy, layout clarity, and user motivation indicators.

References

Clarkson, P. J., Coleman, R., Keates, S., & Lebbon, C. (2013). Inclusive design: Design for the whole population. Springer. https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-1-4471-0001-0www-edc.eng.cam.ac.uk+5SCIRP+5CiteSeerX+5

Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (1985). Intrinsic motivation and self-determination in human behavior. Springer. https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-1-4899-2271-7SpringerLink+3SCIRP+3SpringerLink+3

Fogg, B. J. (2009). Creating persuasive technologies: An eight-step design process. Persuasive Technology, 1–6. https://dl.acm.org/doi/10.1145/1541948.1542005ACM Digital Library

Norman, D. A. (2013). The design of everyday things (Revised and expanded edition). Basic Books. https://www.basicbooks.com/titles/don-norman/the-design-of-everyday-things/9780465050659/

[design303reflections]

Week 7 Reflection – DES303

Theme: Second Round of Prototyping Experiments

What I Did This Week

This week, I made solid progress on the first interactive prototype of Pulse: Freedom in Motion. I designed and built key interface screens: the lock screen, login page, sign-up screen, and an animated loading screen styled as a glowing dance floor. The animation is meant to convey rhythm and energy, key values in the app’s identity.

Functionally, I added interactive input fields for email and password, checkbox options, and sliding toggle buttons that shift position and colour when clicked.

Feelings: Emotional Response to the Work

A range of emotions were sparked by the process. After weeks of brainstorming, there was undoubtedly excitement to watch my interface come to life. However, attempting to create responsive interactions brought aggravation, particularly when input fields broke on smaller screens or toggles didn't work as intended. But there was a real sense of accomplishment when they started to function properly. It brought to mind how a project might feel "real" for the first time through tactile interaction.

Evaluation: What’s Working and What’s Not

The visual harmony between the screens pleases me. The UI fits in nicely with the lively, expressive tone I'm going for and feels planned and unified. The animation and toggles provide little bursts of happiness, which encourage user participation.

Nevertheless, I encountered problems that caused me to slow down:

After being clicked, certain toggles lost their colour status.

There was irregular spacing on mobile breakpoints.

The loading animation was annoying and moved too quickly.

These were fixed after some trial and error and peer review, but they made me see how crucial testing is as I develop.

Analysis: Connecting Practice and Theory

I was able to apply key concepts from Don Norman's (2013) user-centered design theory this week thanks to the prototyping, particularly those pertaining to feedback, visibility, and mapping. I discovered when creating toggle buttons that basic visual clues, such as colour change and position movement, can significantly increase user comprehension. These modifications support Norman's contention that simple and intuitive usage actions are a result of good design.

I also began thinking about how user experience could be enhanced by motivation theory. I specifically looked into the Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 1985), which emphasises relatedness, competence, and autonomy as necessary for meaningful engagement. With user autonomy in mind, the app's customisation features, such as toggle preferences and profile setups, give users command over how they use the app.

I've started incorporating basic checks against WCAG 2.1 standards, even though accessibility wasn't a top priority at first (World Wide Web Consortium, 2018). I assessed contrast, responsiveness, and mobile friendliness using Google Lighthouse (Google, 2024), and I made notes to enhance keyboard navigation and screen reader compatibility in subsequent versions.

Reflection on Feedback

I showed my prototype to colleagues during a studio session this week, even though there was no official critique. Among the comments I got were:

"Try slowing down the toggles a little bit."

"There is a little confusion in the sign-up labels."

"The animation is cool, but it might repeat a little too much."

I responded by adding floating labels and placeholder text to the input fields and slowing down the timing of the toggle transition. Though visually striking, the dancefloor animation may need to be toned down for usability.

Conclusion and Learnings

I was reminded this week that iteration is the key to polish. In retrospect, I should have made a more conscious wireframe map of the screen transitions before diving headfirst into development. That would have improved coding efficiency and decreased layout bugs.

Here, the interaction between theory and prototyping became very tangible. Norman's ideas felt more like useful tools I could utilise in my code than they did like abstract concepts. The same is true of motivation theory, which focuses on making decisions that give users a sense of empowerment when interacting with digital content.

Week 8 Action Plan

Next week, I'll:

Complete the dance animation sample.

Start out by mapping and testing the onboarding processes.

Do beginning responsiveness tests on a variety of devices.

Conduct an initial accessibility audit.

Get two to three users' opinions by conducting a brief usability walkthrough.

References

Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (1985). Intrinsic motivation and self-determination in human behavior. Springer. https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-1-4899-2271-7 Google. (2024). Lighthouse. Chrome Developer Tools. https://developer.chrome.com/docs/lighthouse/ Norman, D. A. (2013). The design of everyday things (Revised and expanded edition). Basic Books. World Wide Web Consortium. (2018). Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1. https://www.w3.org/TR/WCAG21/

[design303reflections]

Week 6 Reflection, Des 303

My Work's Current Status

I focused primarily on my crit session this week, where I gave the team a presentation of my app idea. I gave my detailed plan and got constructive criticism. Additionally, I kept working on my app wireframes, of which I've included a screenshot below:

Step by step plan:

Open app screen will have 2 options to login or sign up

If you choose sign up, it will ask you all the normal questions like name, age and then it will ask you questions about your physical condition to adjust your suggestions

The login page will have normal username and password options

Once either of those pages is submitted, you get to the loading screen which will be a dance floor animation

It will then bring you to the home page which will display youe recent songs, stats from your dance progress, feed from what others have been doing

If you select recent songs, It will show you all the songs you have recently looked at or started but not finished and will give you an option to continue or to post your progress

If you select stats, it will show you your style of dance stats, fitness levels and then goals you can set for yourself

If you select Feed, it will take you to where you can see all different people posting about their dance journey using both photos and videos to get inspiration

Then if you click the menu bottom in the top left then it will open the side bar where you can look at your saved songs, look up songs you like for dances, do some warm ups, or log out

If you select search then it will take you too the search window where you will be able to look up different songs and either learn the dance then and there or save it for later

You then have your saved collection which you can choose the song you'd most like to learn from there

If you select warm up then it takes you to a page with all the different warms ups you can do, each one focsuing on different elements and for different abilities

When you learn a song, it will take you to the song page and this is where you will select the level you wanna learn at, it will recomend you a level but you can override this is you would like

It will then start playing the choreography video, it will have step by steps for you to follow along too, not adding the next step until you have the last

It will have a feature where you can film yourself and before moving onto the next step it will test you with doing the move you just did at the same time as the instrutor just to make sure you got it

After you finish the dance, you can record it and it will then show you the video as well as your stats from the dance you just learn't like your time, your calories burnt, your progress in that dance style and so on. It will also show you the 2 options of saving the dance onto your phone and then also the option to post onto the feed page

The Experience

I spent most of this week getting ready for and giving my critique session presentation, in which I presented my app idea and went over a thorough user journey. The app is made to accommodate users' varying skill levels and physical capabilities, allowing them to learn dance at their own speed. As I advanced through the main features of the app, I also kept working on wireframes in Figma. The criticism I got during the crit phase improved my comprehension of the holes in my idea and guided my next phases of development.

Reflection on Action

I became more aware of my current design's advantages and disadvantages after presenting my concept. My peers' questions forced me to consider aspects I hadn't given enough thought to, like accessibility, age inclusivity, and long-term scalability, even though I was confident in my concept and planning. I was able to change some of my decisions thanks to their advice. I also came to the realisation that, even though I've advanced significantly in Figma, I can still sharpen my design thinking, particularly in the areas of user engagement and safety.

Theory

The comments are directly related to the theory of user-centered design, especially when it comes to adaptive user experience and accessibility. After our critique, it became clearer how important it is to design for a variety of bodies and abilities. By encouraging users to share milestones and track their progress, the app also incorporates ideas from motivation psychology, gamification, and iterative learning. I'm starting to more intentionally incorporate inclusive design frameworks as I go along, which is in line with industry best practices for developing digital products.

Preparation

My next plans include improving the interactive features of the app and adjusting the wireframes in light of user feedback. I intend to:

To improve accessibility, incorporate both seated and standing dance variations.

Introduce age-based user experience customisation during the sign-up process.

Examine options for future-proofing like smartwatch integration or heart-rate tracking.

Continue honing my Figma skills so that next semester I can do more complex prototyping.

Proof of Learning

I learned this week how crucial early feedback is to creating inclusive and well-considered design work. I now have a better idea of how to advance my idea after my peers helped me identify blind spots I hadn't thought of. I've learned to approach every user interface choice with empathy and purpose, as well as to strike a balance between creativity and pragmatism.

Personal and Professional Insight

I'm beginning to realise how important user accessibility and inclusivity are to my work. I am now a more deliberate designer as a result of this project, especially in terms of foreseeing a range of needs. As I've come to understand that sharing an unfinished idea can be a powerful step in strengthening it, I've also learned to value collaboration and critique more. I feel more assured when I present, more committed to designing with a purpose, and more confident in my skills with Figma.

[design303reflections]

Week 5 Reflection, Des 303

The Experience

I had to catch up during this week. I went over the brainstorming framework from the course material again and concentrated a lot on the ideation phase of my project. I went through important phases, such as determining my own interests, relating them to more general social concerns, and honing my own concepts. Additionally, I got input that improved and shaped my ideas. The drawings and images I've created illustrate how my concept, an app that blends my interests with purposeful design objectives, has evolved.

After thinking about some ideas, I looked deeper into these ideas and grew apon them, getting feedback along the way

Considering Action

I gained direction and clarity by following these methodical ideation steps. The process felt less daunting thanks to the guided approach, which included everything from enumerating interests to connecting them to social movements. I came to see how important it was to get feedback in these early phases because it allowed me to refine and broaden my ideas. I did, however, still have some difficulty catching up and putting everything in order. In the future, I'll need to address my propensity to become sidetracked by pursuing too many avenues at once.

Theory

This week reinforced the importance of reflective and iterative ideation in the design process, as emphasized in user-centered design and social impact design theory. The process of mapping interests to societal issues mirrors the principles found in participatory and values-driven design, where meaningful change starts with authentic engagement. The structure we followed, broad to focused, mirrorss the divergent-to-convergent thinking model seen in design thinking frameworks. Reflecting on Bassot’s model, I noticed that my assumptions about needing a “perfect” idea held me back, but the cycle of exploration and feedback encouraged a more flexible mindset.

Preparation

I intend to complete my selected concept and enter the planning and development stage the following week. This will entail outlining the main features of my app, creating preliminary wireframe or interface element sketches, and setting up a precise prototyping timeline. I want to keep my scope reasonable and believe in the importance of testing and developing the concept rather than perfecting everything at once in order to stay on course. In order to ensure that the project remains in line with my creative objectives and its potential impact, I will also continue to solicit feedback as I move forward.

Proof of Learning

I've discovered the advantages of organising brainstorming around one's own interests and societal significance. This approach helps produce ideas with practical potential in addition to maintaining my interest. Additionally, I've discovered how important it is to get feedback early on because it helped me see things differently and kept me from getting stuck. I feel more equipped to approach the planning and design stage of my project with confidence and focus now that I have a strong base upon which to build.

[design303reflections]

Week 4 Reflection, Des 303

The Experience

I concentrated on my project's conception phase this week. Despite being a little behind schedule, I've been actively investigating many concepts and avenues. I've been thinking about how my hobbies, such as acting, singing, baking, fashion, and cultural preservation, mayay relate to more general societal concerns like mental health, sustainability, and climate change. So far, my design process has included idea mapping, brainstorming, and the start of identifying major topics that appeal to both me and possible audiences:

Considering Action

Experiencing this brainstorming stage has been both thrilling and daunting. Thinking imaginatively and keeping an open mind to different methods was beneficial. However, I discovered that when it comes to making judgements, I have a tendency to overthink and delay. This has hindered my progress and made it more difficult for me to focus on a single goal. This delay has caused me some concern, but it has also inspired me to keep going. I was able to make sense of my ideas and identify the ones with the most promise by discussing them with mentors and colleagues.

Theory

According to human-centred and systems thinking paradigms, this step emphasises the importance of ideation in the design process. Divergent thinking is beneficial during the ideation process before settling on a single solution, according to design thinkers like Tim Brown and Nigel Cross. According to Bassot's model, it's critical to identify preconceptions, and I've found that my hesitancy frequently results from a fear of selecting the "wrong" notion. Realising this aids in my understanding of my own workflow and areas for improvement. My investigation of well-being and sustainability-related initiatives relates to more general design concepts that emphasise socially conscious design.

Preparation

I want to narrow down my areas of concentration and stick to only one major concept going forward. I'll look more closely at current initiatives in that field to see what functions well and what needs improvement. I want to evaluate the viability and appeal of early concepts by sketching and prototyping them. Above all, I want to make judgements more quickly, trust my gut more, and avoid becoming bogged down in the planning stage. This will keep me moving forward in the upcoming weeks and help me gain confidence in my creative judgement.

Proof of Learning

I've discovered that, even though I like to explore a variety of creative possibilities, I want structure in order to proceed efficiently. I've learned from mentors, peers, and outside examples, which is assisting me in creating a more polished and significant path. This contemplation has inspired me to view the brainstorming process as a place for learning and development, both personally and as a designer, rather than as a challenge.

[design303reflections]

Week 3 Reflection - DES 303

Description

This week, I gave a live demonstration of Photoshop editing skills, focusing on duo tones, path blur, and pattern overlay. I found the experience of exhibiting these strategies to be both hard and enjoyable because it allowed me to showcase my knowledge and talents in a practical situation.

My peers provided mostly favorable feedback, complimenting my clear and structured approach, confident delivery, and intense interaction with the audience. They appreciated how I broke down the phases of Photoshop editing, making the concepts simple to understand. Most people thought the live demo to be the most compelling element of the presentation since it exhibited my confidence in my abilities and allowed them to watch the editing process in action.

However, a few comments indicated that certain parts of the demo were slightly unclear due to pre-prepared pieces, making them difficult to understand at times. There were also complaints about small technical glitches throughout the live demonstration, which slowed the pace. Additionally, it was suggested that I incorporate more of my own examples to demonstrate the entire variety of how these techniques could be used.

Overall, the feedback met my expectations. I believed I had delivered the information in an entertaining and structured manner, but I was also aware that live demonstrations have risks, such as unexpected difficulties that might break the flow.

Feelings

I was quite encouraged by the response, particularly the recognition of my confidence, clarity, and ability to engage the audience. It was great to hear that my demonstration helped my peers gain new skills and feel confident in their ability to apply them. That being said, I was a little confused by the comments regarding the unclear moments caused by organized aspects. I hadn't considered that this would make some parts more difficult to follow. The suggestion to include more personal examples was also a great idea that I hadn't previously considered. This criticism prompted me to think about how I mix live demonstrations with pre-prepared elements. It also made me more aware of how little technical errors, even if they appear

Evaluation

The most useful feedback was regarding my planned and straightforward approach, which comforted me that my planning and preparation were successful. The feedback on my confident delivery and ability to engage the audience was also helpful, as it proved that I successfully connected with my peers and kept their attention.

The recommendations for enhancement, such as smoothing out the live demo flow and providing more personal examples, were smart. While I initially assumed my pre-prepared elements would increase efficiency, I now realize they may have caused confusion. This is something I can modify in future presentations.

There were no comments that were wholly unhelpful or inconsistent, but I would have preferred more specific suggestions for improving the tempo during technical difficulties.

Analysis

The assessment indicated that my presentation was engaging, well-structured, and easy to follow. The live demo was impressive, although technical problems occasionally interrupted the flow. Another common theme was the significance of explaining concepts using personal examples.

The outsider perspectives made me realize that, while I am confident in my knowledge and delivery, the clarity of the audience's experience is as vital. Even if I understand the content completely, I must ensure that my explanation techniques are widely accessible.

My background in Photoshop and experience with the software may have influenced how I interpreted the criticism. Because I already knew the processes, I might not have noticed when steps weren't as clear to someone less familiar with the tools. This is an outstanding perspective that will help me adjust my teaching style in the future.

Conclusion

This feedback process taught me that, while my presentation skills and engagement were great, I needed to be more careful of clarity during live demos. The balance between efficiency and audience understanding is critical, and I should find ways to ensure that pre-prepared elements do not make things more difficult to follow.

The criticism validated my ability to successfully convey and teach Photoshop methods, but it also highlighted areas where I may improve my approach. In the future, I plan to make the transition between pre-prepared pieces and live demos more seamless, as well as include additional personal instances.

Action Plan

Improve clarity in live demos - I'll practice transitioning between pre-prepared and live pieces to ensure they complement each other rather than cause confusion.

Prepare for technical issues - I'll have backup plans in place if something goes wrong during a live demo, allowing me to keep the presentation running smoothly.

Include more personal examples - I'll use more of my own work to demonstrate the full range of what the techniques may do.

Refine tempo - I will work on maintaining a consistent flow, even when unexpected obstacles develop, in order to keep the audience involved without disrupting comprehension.

[design303reflections]

Week 2 Reflection – DES 303

1. Description (What happened?)

I spent this week working on the Tech Demo project's ideation exercises. Prior to examining connections between various interests, social issues, and challenges, the process entailed brainstorming and classifying them. We used a methodical process that involved flipping viewpoints to discover original angles and coming up with ideas through a "What if" experiment.

I used sticky notes to record my ideas and made a visual mind map as part of this process. This made it easier for me to see connections and patterns among concepts. I have now gathered a wide variety of possible ideas and begun to refine them in order to concentrate on the most promising ones for my Tech Demo strategy.

^ Some photos from this workshop collaboration

2. Feelings (How did you feel?)

I felt both excited and frustrated during the planning and ideation stages. The sheer volume of concepts and options initially overwhelmed me, making it challenging to choose a clear course of action. But as I developed and began forming deep connections, I became more assured of my way of thinking.

There were fascinating times, especially when I found random connections between various ideas. The brainstorming process felt rewarding and engaging because of these moments. However, I also experienced periods of uncertainty when I found it difficult to decide between conflicting ideas or when some concepts felt too abstract to further develop. Other people also collaborating on this Miro board really helped because if I was stuck, I would look and see what others had done and get inspiration for my ideas, or I'd build on others ideas.

3. Evaluation (What was good and bad?)

The structured approach was one of the most effective parts of the process because it made it easier for me to better arrange my ideas and investigate connections. The decision-making process was somewhat guided by the ideas that naturally stood out as promising candidates for additional development. I was also inspired to think creatively by the brainstorming exercises, which produced some fascinating and unexpected discoveries.

But there were difficulties as well. One of the hardest things for me to do was to focus my thoughts because there were so many intriguing paths. It was challenging to figure out the strength of some ideas since they didn't seem to fit the Tech Demo's requirements. I also had trouble striking a balance between creativity and practicality; although some of my ideas were novel, they weren't always possible for execution given the restrictions of the project.

4. Analysis (Why did this happen?)

Research, discussions with peers, and my own interests all had an impact on my ability to come up with ideas. Making new connections through engaging with diverse viewpoints was crucial in forming my way of thinking.

It's possible that my struggle to focus on ideas stemmed from overthinking or not wanting to commit to a particular course of action. I have an impulse for big, abstract concepts, which can occasionally be challenging to ground in real-world delivery. Understanding this thought pattern will enable me to improve my strategy in the project's later phases and guarantee that my finished idea is both original and workable.

5. Conclusion (What can be learned?)

The ideation process this week served as a reminder of the value of organized brainstorming and considering various viewpoints before settling on a single concept. I discovered that even though I like coming up with original ideas, I also need to consider their viability and practical execution. I learned from the process of reducing my options that sometimes the most efficient tools are the ones that are easier to use and more familiar.

The methodical approach of separating interests, social issues, and potential connections was one that proved particularly efficient. I was able to think independently and examine concepts that I might not have otherwise. I was also able to make an informed and confident choice by balancing the advantages and disadvantages of various software programs.

In my next projects, I'll apply this individual approach, making sure I hit a balance between originality and practical thinking. In order to feel confident in my presentation, I intend to concentrate on enhancing my Photoshop skills and organizing my tech demo the following week.

6. Action Plan (What will you do next?)

I have determined that Photoshop will be more dependable and more appropriate for my abilities after comparing the benefits and drawbacks of Blender (3D modeling) and Photoshop. Compared to Blender, I feel more at ease using it. My next task is to rehearse the demonstration I'll be giving, which will highlight photo editing techniques. Having worked as a photographer for seven years, I want to meaningfully display my abilities.

[design303reflections]

Week 1 Reflection – DES 303

1. What Happened?

DES 303 members learned about the course framework while starting their initial project brainstorming sessions during this first week. The class focused on design profession routes while examining how our core beliefs affect our professional work. A team activity guided us to move beyond initial intimidation from the subject weight by helping us create a middle section between what we loved and hated. Together with our partners we exchanged information about our university experiences to generate design-related skills from our backgrounds.

2. Feelings (How Did I Feel?)

At the end of the week I experienced a mix of enthusiasm with mild anxiety. The brainstorming sessions were interesting to me yet the tasks' open nature made me feel uncertain about the methods. The discussion about career pathways became especially fascinating because it helped me think about my professional future. My confused state about choosing a career path results from my uncertainty about the available professional options. The game design industry along with medical design align with my passions so I would pursue these fields based on past employment experiences.

3. Evaluation (What Went Well and What Didn’t?)

Working with my classmates to exchange our idea development progress proved beneficial for imagination growth because we shared how we were doing in the course work. The process of choosing a single strong concept for my upcoming work proved challenging because I struggled to finalize my idea selection. My tendency to overanalyze decisions and doubt myself creates uncertainty during attempts to link my interests with both my demo and the overall program project.

4. Analysis (Why Did Things Go the Way They Did?)

Wanting everything to be perfect at first creation seems to be the primary source of my problem with choosing between ideas. The first concept isn't necessarily the best decision so I have learned that observation during my many years of experience. During this week I learned to build trust in the creative development process while letting projects evolve naturally beyond early-stage fixation on final results.

5. Conclusion (What I Learned?)

Learning to accept uncertainty becomes crucial for producing creative work during the class period. My approach should let me try new things and refine my designs through multiple rounds of testing instead of insisting on creating a faultless concept at the start. If I could redo the brainstorming stage I would focus on core concepts first while avoiding the construction of things without proper constructible plans.

6. Action Plan (How will I move forward?)

To avoid excessive ideation time next week I will establish time boundaries during brainstorming sessions. I must pause to review my progress when one idea consumes most of my attention so I can ask these questions:

Is it possible for me to implement this design considering the available time frame?

Do I have current abilities for the task or will learning new skills be essential?

During my work I will ask my classmates for feedback about my projects before the deadline to benefit from their insight and improve my work quality.

7. Demo Ideas

Coming up with a demo idea was challenging because I first had to reflect on my skills and whether they would be useful in a design setting. Using my Venn diagram, I identified areas where my strengths and interests overlap. I realized that I am really into 3D modeling and drawing, so I started narrowing it down to the programs I frequently use: Blender and Photoshop.

My next steps will be:

Weighing the pros and cons of each program

Determining which one aligns better with my project goals

Finalizing my decision based on feasibility and my current skill level