I find it interesting seeing how the writers are writing about big data without being analytical of how this data is being used and manipulated in some cases to get desired results and/or significant results, and how the studies with no significant results does not get reported. The readings about the big data reminded me of another set of readings I read for one of my research methods class, and how it was critical of the way we approach research as whole and the integrity of the analysis of the big data and the ways it gets manipulated. This is something I always keep in mind while thinking of big data. Also, the way capitalism was accepted as a system and bitcoins was shown as a way of resistance or social capitalism is very problematic in my perspective. Since I believe that capitalism must be rejected as a whole and there should not be a way to reform a current oppressive system or working within that system. The idea of bitcoins as a social capitalist concept is corrupt and must be reassessed.
Human-centered design accepts the believe that all problems are solvable while ignoring bigger issues like the big systems we live under. Maybe if we can think of the solutions as a way to resist and keep us going to dismantle these oppressive systems, I would accept the idea. These solutions must include an awareness piece that helps people understand the evil powers they are facing and maybe provide some tools of resistance and organizing. Without having these umbrella concepts in design, solving problems becomes like a band aid that only solves a problem temporarily. I wonder if there is a radical anarchist way to approach design problems and if that should be included in the syllabus as an option. Although the human-centered design steps and approach seems helpful to start solving problems in our communities, without keeping the bigger picture in mind, we could contribute to the problems of capitalism without realizing the damage our designs may cause, especially when it comes to loans, lending, borrowing, etc.
After I addressed all these concerns that roam in my mind while I was reading, there are a few steps that I learned about how to approach a design problem and different techniques and methods to solve it. Most of the techniques seem like they fall under a “common sense” category, but since they are arranged in a book, it makes it easier to follow the process and see how one can learn different ways to approach design. This can also be illustrated in thinking of designing play and how the rules are set to serve a different purpose (play.) Also understanding the possibilities that the word “design” can mean is interesting. This will help me when I am thinking of ways to transform my research from a text form to different forms of visual art. Also, keep the cultural practices in mind will help me shape my design.
Thinking of the process of design, it feels like writing. There is brainstorming, an outline, a first draft, edits, final draft, critique, and modifications. Thinking of the design process as fluid as the design problem is, and how it depends on what is needed. This process may seem linear, but it is more complex than that. Breaking down the process to small steps seems like it will help moving from a vision to an actual prototype, but it seems like there must be some sort of designing skill that I do not possess, and I am not sure how digital my design will be.
While I am reading all of this, I am thinking that I will be creating prototypes for people who cannot read or write mostly. This pushes me to think that I may understand the culture and the norms in my community, but I do not understand this specific experience, nor do I know what these people need to process information and retain it without being able to read. The first idea that comes to mind is to ask for help from the potential users and see how they handle life and electronics without the ability to read.
"The Conditions of Possibility" created a new possibility of a form of a webpage where a person is very interactive and takes part in the order of the info consumed. The term cryptodocumentary is very new to me but very fascinating. I may think of creating something like this one for my research. This made me miss home a bit, but it is also a sad reminder of the current situation there. I am not interested in learning the technological techniques, but I am satisfied by knowing what is possible, and maybe one day asking a tech expert for help to use an algorithm to blur a video or an image.
"common sense" category...LOL