Interaction Design (Citizen Science)

Within this weeks studio we took the time to really understand the concept behind interaction design and how to apply it to this weeks assignment. We were to create an app to involve citizens in scientific studies on plants within there county. As we usually do, we first began by brainstorming the possible users as well as what specific needs they may have. As a college student I decided to target this age group because I feel I have the most knowledge and understanding of the things they may be interested in. In result of this I became very inspired by the game “Pokemon Go”, and decided to create an app similar to this one. The app would be called “Plant Takeover”, and the goal of the game is to collect as many invasive plants as possible. As they collect or “capture” an invasive plant it would then be collected as data for scientists to be aware of the amount and different kinds of invasive plants within their county.

This project was the most fun I’ve had on a class assignment in a really long time. I enjoyed not only thinking of the technicalities of the app but also the overall designs and look of the app. It made me really appreciate all the apps I have on my phone because I don’t really think I’ve ever thought about how much work goes into creating them. Although I just created a prototype of a possible way the app would be laid out, it definitely was a ton of work. I do wish I had put a bit more time into the brainstorming process because I would not have run into a couple of the problems I had if done so. When I finished creating each page showcased for the app, I realized how many things I wanted to add but was too late to do so. If I had put in a bit more time on brainstorming I think I would have been more satisfied in my final product.

I think this project was a huge success for me not only because I am happy with my final product but because I enjoyed the time that went into creating it. It really made me realize the things in life I find joy in doing and I would definitely say design is one of them. Through the ups and the downs of this project I wouldn’t change a thing.