Gentle Guide
2002-2003
Is guidance through feeling possible? Could first-year university students present their findings in a conference paper?
INDUSTRIAL DESIGN
Background
In September 2001 Eindhoven University of Technology started a five-year Industrial Design course with a focus on designing intelligent products, systems and services.
The educational model was based on competency development in 9 areas. Assessments were based on a self-reflection by the students.
Competencies
1. Ideas & Concepts
2. Integrating Technology
3. User Focus & Interaction
4. Socio-Cultural Landscape
5. Multidisciplinary Teamwork
6. Market Orientation
7. Visual Perception
8. Self Directed and Continuous Learning
9. Specialisation
Outcome
The industrial design curriculum was entirely project or assignment based which was unique at the time. This case study of Gentle Guide indicates that an academic level could be achieved using this approach to learning.
The first prototypes were merely strings. Later prototypes using mobile phone vibration motors wired to the hand and later to both wrists.
Wireless prototype used for carrying out testing.
Route map of one location and part of the test protocol.
40 second video indicating how the tests were carried out.
Our findings were presented at the Mobile HCI 2003 in Udine, Italy