The cycle of generating many ideas, distilling general themes from
the ideas, and then devising quick tests to learn about the themes is a
very effective way to ensure that a project starts off in a good direction.
The invaluable step of performing quick tests using simple models is often
overlooked altogether!
Structured methods can facilitate this process, helping us to rapidly transition between the right and left brain centered activities. Time constrained ideate-select-prototype exercises are a good way to improve our technique and develop skills. In this 1 hour exercise, teams of ~6 students were challenged to brainstorm, select, and prototype an interactive, carnival-style game that does not require user instructions. The prototypes were then tested with unfamiliar users. See the results from class! |
Materials Construction paper Tongue depressors Rubber bands String Assorted balls Aluminum foil Cellophane Pipe cleaners Sack of pennies Empty soup cans Cardboard tubes Toilet paper White paper 2'x3' foam core 1" foam insulation Balloons Wire |
Duct
tape Tools |
