Reflection

Overall, I am quite happy with my progress and final deliverable for the Physical Computing Project. In terms of my physical prototype, significant improvements could be made with further resources, however, considering the project was completed during a global pandemic, I am satisfied with the prototype I was able to develop. The prototype still manages to embody my vision for the concept and intended functionality and interaction. The main differences between the 'ideal' and 'actual' outcomes, again lie in the physical aspect of the concept as opposed to the goals and desired outcomes. The main drawback is the lack of a large touchscreen to be used as the digital interface, however, my laptop functions well in place of this element and still allows similar interaction. The final prototype also includes pre-existing shapes as the subjects to be coloured in, as opposed to users being able to colour their freely drawn images. I understand that for me to implement the desired functionality, it would have taken significant time away from other aspects of the project and I am therefore happy sacrificing this element.

I am very confident in my project outcome as I feel that Twisted adheres well to the team and studio domains, whilst also effectively bringing about my experience outcome goals. The studio domain called for concepts that could be used in everyday life and allowed for playful, open-ended interaction, criteria which I believe Twisted strongly satisfy [7]. When I look back to the outlined problem space and necessary requirements identified through background research and exploration of related works, Twisted aligns well with the identified gaps in the system and clearly targets the intended demographic. The project outcomes I strived to facilitate throughout the process were ultimately to enhance knowledge of colour theory, the ability to collaborate, creativity fostered through learning and provide an open-ended environment for learning. I feel that my project outcomes strongly align with all of the identified goals and desired outcomes. Additionally, user testing with target users corroborated this through positive experience interacting with Twisted, where active learning, engagement, communication and collaboration was constantly evident. The users also came away from the interaction reciting colour combinations and the related colour outcomes, displaying perfect evidence that the academic outcomes of interaction were achieved.

Exhibit

The virtual exhibit was a great success, especially considering that it was the first ever interaction design exhibit run solely online. Team Twisted experienced a lot of traffic through our Discord channel which meant we were able to present our concepts to a diverse range of visitors, and in turn, gain insightful comments and feedback. Overall, vistors voiced very positive thoughts regarding our individual concepts and collective domain.

The Discord channel allowed us to present our concepts through a combination of screen sharing and using another device to stream live footage of the physical prototype in use. Through this method, I was able to easily depict the form, functionality and interaction of Twisted to visitors and teaching staff. As the finale to the Physical Computing Project, I was really impressed with how the exhibit went and how Team Twisted's concepts came together and complimented each other to present a comprehensive undertsanding of the overarching problem space.