Diversity and Design

1. Meaghan Pashen
University at Buffalo - State University of New York
American Diversity and Design - Spring 2017
Online Discussion Questions
https://img.clipartfest.com/8f3526de43c9a4c83ad915a2cd72e6c7_-tips-for-bridging-the-gaps-bridging-the-gap-clipart_420-315.jpeg

2. Introduction
This thread provides you with an opportunity to "meet" each other and initiate a connection with participants in your group. In responding to
this discussion thread, please introduce yourself and provide us with one interesting fact about yourself. After posting your introduction, take a
look through and reply to some of the others. The purpose of this exercise is to develop a sense of community. You might find that you share
similar experiences and can help each other in many ways throughout the semester.
Diversity and Design has influenced me to think about things and view designs in a different way. As with any system or concept, there is more going on
behind the scenes than what meets the eye. As an engineering major, I must learn to think about problems from many different angles. Even though the
Diversity and Design course is not an engineering course, it allowed me to gain a new perspective. This course has helped me to understand the ways in
which our environments affect various populations in the U.S. and the ways that these populations effect our environments. The following pages document
my responses to the online discussion questions in the Spring 2017 version of ARC 211 American Diversity and Design at the University at Buffalo –
State University of New York.
(my photo)

3. Response to "What is design?" from Hello World
The author opened her chapter with the example of Ying Zheng, the ruler of the Qin empire, one of the most powerful and enduring empires I the
history of China. She explained how design innovation contributed to Ying Zheng’s success. For example, in the development of weaponry, he
resolved many problems by standardizing parts, and this single innovation gave his armies great advantage over other armies. For this
discussion, let’s move away from 246 B.C. China, and into the U.S. Describe an innovation or invention (can be current or historical) that gave
advantage to a group of people in the U.S. or to the population. What were the social impacts of this innovation? Were any groups negatively
impacted by this innovation? For example, the telegraph, developed and patented in the United States in 1837 by Samuel Morse, permitted people
and commerce to transmit messages across both continents and oceans almost instantly, with widespread social and economic impacts. This
heightened communication speed allowed business persons to make decisions with up-to-date information, often resulting in big profits. Those
without access had to rely on outdated information, which put them at a disadvantage.
An example of an innovation that has given advantages to the population is the Internet. The world wide web has helped to connect people from all over
the world and ease communication between people. It has also allowed people to access resources and knowledge they would have otherwise not have
been able to experience. The Internet has also changed the way that businesses and consumers interact. While there are many positives to this innovation,
there are also several negatives. Some argue that Internet access ruins the way that we interact with each other; conversations are through a screen rather
than face to face. Internet crimes such as hacking and swindling for money are also negatives of this invention.
http://cdn.makeuseof.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/internet-2017.jpg

4. Response to "Introduction" from Diversity and Design
On “Introduction” from Diversity and Design: Understanding Hidden Consequences
The editors state that “diverse participation in the design process, from both professionals and public citizens alike, yields more equitable
results.” This makes sense, but typically has not been the case. Nonetheless, many marginalized groups have impacted design in ways that have
changed our visual and physical worlds as well as our systems, policies, and institutions. For example, in the 1960s, disability rights advocates
designed media events to raise awareness about barriers in the physical environment. They persisted with their efforts for decades, and, finally, in
1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act became law. It mandated accessibility in public accommodations such as restaurants and stores, public
transportation, communication, and other areas of public life. This dramatically changed our physical environment (from curb cuts to ramps to
automatic doors) and the results made public life more equitable. Now it’s your turn. Describe a design that was impacted by a diversity group.
How and why did it change form and/or circumstances? (Note that a design can be anything requiring planning and development prior to the
production of an action, system, visual, material object, or environment. Also, keep in mind that, for our purposes, a diversity group is a group of
individuals who are underrepresented in society in some way—children, older adults, the economically disadvantaged, those with cognitive
disabilities, etc.)
Some prescription pills are unsafe for children to consume. Due to this hazard, prescription pill bottles have child locks on them. Other products that are
unsafe for children have utilized a child lock design feature as well. Cars even have child locks for safety. The design of the bottle was adapted so that you
must push down and then twist them open. Since it is a lot harder to open the prescription pill bottle, any small child that should not be ingesting the pills
cannot get to them.
http://biorxlabs.com/images/front_page/vials-group-animation2.gif

5. Response to Media/Society Chapter and TED Talk on Photographs
Where would you place the images shown in Photos That Changed the World into Croteau and Hoynes' diagram entitled “Model of Media and
the Social World”? Identify a mass media photograph taken in your own lifetime that has served as an icon of an event. (Feel free to add an
attachment.) What roles does this photo play in the communication of the event?
I would place this image on the media message or media industry section of the diagram. This is a photo that circulated through the media around the time
of the Democratic National convention and the Presidential Election of 2016. During the convention, Khizr Khan, the father of a Muslim American army
captain who was killed in Iraq in 2006, spoke out against Donald Trump. In response to Trump’s anti-Muslim rhetoric, the father spoke of his son’s
patriotism and displayed his own by holding up his own constitution and asking the nominee if he had even read it. This photo demonstrates that “being
American” is not determined by your race or religion. America was founded by a group of people who had been oppressed for their religious views. They
were refugees, they were different. A Muslim man, whose people were deemed un-American by Trump, standing up in front of the entire country and
questioning his patriotism, is very powerful.
http://static.politifact.com.s3.amazonaws.com/politifact/photos/Parents.jpg

6. Response to Articles on Hats as Communication Design
Typically, we do not think of hats as elements of mass media or social media. However, the two hats (red and pink) discussed in the articles
certainly have taken on that role. Why are the two hats (red and pink) mentioned in the articles vehicles of communication design? What
meanings do each of the two hats carry? In terms of communication design, how are they similar? And how are they different from one another?
Both hats symbolize ideas and a movement. The red “Make America Great Again” trucker hats, though they may be poorly designed, are simple,
universal, succinct, and ultimately give the message that their target audience wants to hear1
. Trump realized that to win the election, he needed to appeal
to the most average of Americans, especially in middle America. Donald Trump needed to win over any American who longed for a greater America,
whatever their definition of a “great America” might be. The pink “pussyhats” are a response to the popularity, actions, and election of Donald Trump2
.
These hats were inspired by remarks made by President Trump about grabbing women by their genitals. They certainly grab the attention of any onlooker,
which was their purpose. Also, these hats symbolize issues on female reproductive rights. Like Trump’s hats, the pink, knit hats are simple; they were
handmade by a group of knitters across the country for the Women's March. Both hats demonstrate how what you wear, no matter how simple or intricate,
can communicate a message or make a statement.
http://static6.businessinsider.com/image/5883a9a5f10a9a98468b8f81-480/womens-march-on-washington.jpg
1
Budds, Diana. "The Worst Design Of 2016 Was Also The Most Effective." Co.Design. Co.Design, 03 Jan. 2017. Web.
2
Rogers, Katie. "Fashioning Protest for the Women's March on Washington." The New York Times. The New York Times, 18 Jan. 2017. Web.

7. Response to “Industrial Design” by John Heskett and "The Incredible Inventions of Intuitive AI" by Maurice Conti
In his chapter on industrial design (written in 1987), historian John Heskett claims that the methods of mass production introduced by Henry
Ford in the U.S. involved new concepts of the standardization and integration of the production line that were adopted across the world. With
Ford’s method, work could be completed by relatively unskilled workers; it was more efficient and with this method, products were made more
quickly and cheaply than previously possible. What were some of the social consequences of Ford’s production line? In other words, how did this
system change our U.S. society? Do any of those changes remain with us today? Now consider Maurice Conti’s TED Talk, and the predictions he
makes about production. How do you think manufacturing processes will change in the next twenty years? How do you think these changes will
affect our U.S. society?
Henry Ford's production line further contributed to America's increasingly industrial society3
. The assembly line employed unskilled workers because all
that they were required to do was one task over and over as a product was passed down the line. This allowed Ford to mass produce cars. Ford's
development the assembly line allowed other businesses to implement the same practices, creating more identical items in bulk. A consequence of this
mass production of not only cars but other industrial products is its negative effect on the environment. The changes made to our society by the
development of the production line remain in our society today. Products are mass produced now more than ever. But, machines are starting to replace
humans in the factory. Over the next twenty, machines will become even more advanced than they are today and will replace the workers who do the
arbitrary repetitive tasks. Our society will be affected because there will be less jobs available, and this type of machinery might expand into other
occupations, and replace even more workers.
http://www.assemblymag.com/ext/resources/Issues/September2013/asb1013line5.jpg
3
Heskett, John. Industrial Design. New York: Thames and Hudson, 2004. Print.

8. Response IDEA Awards and Cradle-to-Cradle Video
Which of the 2016 IDEA Gold Award products seems to defy the Cradle-to-Cradle concept developed by architect William McDonough and
chemist Dr. Michael Braungart? How does this product resist or disregard the concept? Do you know of any products that embrace Cradle-to-
Cradle design? If so, please describe
Many of the 2016 IDEA Gold Award products defy the Cradle-to-Cradle concept developed by architect William McDonough and chemist Dr. Michael
Braungart. Very few of the products reuse materials, though they be simply or luxuriously designed or easy to use. For example, the Rolls Royce Dawn is
beautifully designed and comfortable for its riders, its design does not work to circulate materials back into the environment or work to reduce emissions
or reuse and materials. The Rolls Royce is also a product that very few consumers can afford. The Swater, on the other hand, embraces the Cradle-to-
Cradle design for than the other products in this category. It is a sensor faucet made of all recyclable materials and leadless copper. It also creates water
saving awareness in public spaces.
https://www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com/content/dam/rollsroyce-website/dawn-refresh/00.FB_social_image.jpg

9. Response to All Module 4 Materials
Your readings and viewings this week present different ways of thinking about architecture. Mies Van der Rohe describes architecture as “The
will of the epoch translated into space.” Andrew Ballantyne describes architecture as the background for life. Jeanne Gang describes it as the act
of building relationships. All agree that architecture can change based on context and culture. Choose two works of architecture from any of your
materials this week—one with sensibilities about the past and one with sensibilities about the present and/or future. How do each of these
buildings either reflect or challenge their cultural contexts? (Use the SEE-IT method to respond to this question.)
One work of architecture that has sensibilities to the present and future is the Southdale Center in Edina, Minnesota. The Southdale Center, which is
essentially Austrian architect designed the first modern mall/indoor shopping center, Victor Gruen. He wanted to translate the pedestrian environment of
Vienna to the suburban landscapes of the United States. Gruen wanted to create spaces where suburban people could interact with each other, rather than
staying in cars and "social isolation". He saw the challenge that this brought and he designed the Southdale Center. It contained over 50 stores, a goldfish
pond and even a sidewalk cafe. This indoor shopping mall laid the ground work for many malls to come. One work of architecture that had sensibilities to
the past was the Virginia State Capitol building. It was designed, by Thomas Jefferson in 1788, to be reminiscent of Roman temples. Thomas Jefferson,
not only wanted to declare America's independence from Great Britain but also from its Georgian architectural style. This governmental building inspired
by the past, would influence many of America's governmental buildings to come4
.
https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/01/50/ee/14/virginia-capitol-building.jpg
4
http://www.pbs.org/program/ten-that-changed-america/10-buildings-changed-america/

10. Response to Ballantyne and Zumthor Articles
Andrew Ballantyne and Peter Zumthor present ideas about architecture that seem to value the sensorial and material elements of life. How are
Ballantyne’s and Zumthor’s viewpoints on architecture alike? More importantly, how do they differ.
Ballantyne and Zumthor's viewpoints on architecture have several similarities and differences. For example, both believe that architecture and designs
should impact a person’s emotions. A space should fulfill whatever the intended needs of the individual are as well. Ballantyne believes that comfort is the
most important element of a space5
. Zumthor's ideas differ in that he believes that aesthetic and the look of a design are the most important aspects6
. While
Ballantyne's ideas are more focused on physical aspects of buildings, Zumthor's are more focused as visual aspects.
5
Architecture, Life, and Habit by Andrew Ballantyne
6
A Way of Looking at Things by Peter Zumthor

11. Response to Levy Article
John Levy’s article, “An Overview: The Need for Planning,” discussed ways in which planning can determine the characteristics of a place. For
example, some smaller towns restrict the heights of buildings to maintain a certain scale. How did planning define the character of the place in
which you grew up?
I grew up in a very unique place. I live in Babylon Village on Long Island. My town does not really look like most towns. There is a village, which is
made up of 2 main roads perpendicular to each other. They hold many bars, restaurants, shops, and other small businesses. It is a local ordinance that there
are no chain stores in my town, only locally owned, small businesses. Babylon is centered around a train station, making travel and transport easy. Also,
we have Argyle Lake in the middle of town, where people can walk, bike, run and hang out with friends. Outside of the center of town, there are different
neighborhoods laid out in a grid like fashion, making it easy for navigation. Babylon is also right on the water, so the southern neighborhoods are all
linked by a series of canals. These carefully planned characteristics of my town defines the character of where I grew up.
https://www.libertymoving.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Babylon-Movers.jpg

12. Response to Pruitt Igoe Project, Talen, and Larson
Imagine that you are part of a urban planning and design firm working with Emily Talen (author of “Design That Enables Diversity”) and Kent
Larson (who gave the TED Talk "Brilliant Designs to Fit More People In Every City" The thee of you have been tasked with developing a plan to
rebuild Pruitt Igoe in St. Louis. City officials told the three of you that that they want to do it right this time. Identify three strategies for
rebuilding Pruitt Igoe in ways that promise to be more successful. What would Talen do? What would Larson do? What would you do? How
would your strategies differ from those of the original urban planners/designers of the project? Why would your strategies be more effective?
There are several reasons as to why the Pruitt Igoe project in St. Louis failed7
. Firstly, the complex was not diverse enough. This is a non-technical factor
that planners and architects might not often consider. Since the complex consisted of only people of a certain race and socioeconomic status,
discrimination occurred. Also, the buildings were poorly maintained and very unsanitary. One change that Larson would make would be to make the
spaces more practical and efficient. To house a lot of people, the spaces of the rebuilt Pruitt Igoe would have to be small. Larson would implement
movable walls and tables to make a small space seem twice as large and increase the livability and comfort of the residents8
. This is one strategy to
successfully rebuild Pruitt Igoe. Talen would address the diversity and segregation problem. She would create communal spaces for people to increase a
sense of community and interactions9
. This is another strategy to successfully rebuild the complex. It is important for people to have the opportunity to
coexist peacefully in a space. I would probably work to keep a steady line of communication with the federal government, to ensure that a maintenance
and operational breakdown, like what occurred with the original establishment, would not happen again.
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b9/Pruitt-igoeUSGS02.jpg/350px-Pruitt-igoeUSGS02.jpg
7
The Pruitt Igoe Myth, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKgZM8y3hso
8
Brilliant Designs to Fit More People in Every City by Kent Larson
9
Design That Enables Diversity: The Complications of a Planning Ideal

13. Response to F.L. Olmsted
Displaying his plan at the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia, Frederick Law Olmsted stated that "Buffalo is the best planned city, as to
its streets, public places, and grounds, in the United States, if not in the world." What was the basis for this claim? Would Olmsted still make
that claim today? Why or why not?
When Frederick Law Olmsted came to Buffalo to construct a park, people were picturing it to be the "Central Park of Buffalo". Rather than a large, park in
the center of the city, Olmsted constructed a park system or interconnected landscapes, so that one could travel from one to another easily10
. He designed
the modern-day Niagara Falls State Park as well. Olmsted stated that "Buffalo is the best planned city, as to its streets, public places, and grounds, in the
United States, if not in the world." Since Olmsted's time, industrialization has increased. For infrastructure has been created, as well as more motorways
that have interfered with the spaces he once designed. Some of his parks have diminished due to maintenance issues. People no longer go to his parks for
the same reasons. People drive to Niagara Falls, get out of their car, take pictures and leave. Olmsted thought Buffalo was the best planned city because of
its potential for people to be connected; connected to each other, nature and to other areas of the city. Now, areas of the city are not in as good of shape and
crime has increased. So, no, I do not believe that Olmsted would still make the same claims today. Hopefully, a few years from now, he would.
https://cache-graphicslib.viator.com/graphicslib/thumbs360x240/5515/SITours/niagara-falls-canadian-side-sightseeing-tour-in-niagara-falls-190428.jpg
10
Olmsted, Designing Western New York

14. Response to Walter Hood's Work
Identify something that should be memorialized either on UB's campus or in your hometown. Imagine that you are the person who will oversee
this project, and that you are using Walter Hood's 'triad of investigations' as your approach to the project. What would your landscape
intervention commemorate/memorialize? How will you use Hood's 'triad of investigations' to design a new landscape intervention? What do you
imagine that the design will be? (Either written or visual descriptions are acceptable).
In my hometown, there is a park called Southards Pond. It connects 3 areas of my town. Throughout Southards, there are many trails and streams and
woods. People can walk, bike, run and fish in the park. My town is very busy but Southards provides a break from it all and the opportunity to enjoy
nature. The park is quiet and never changes, which can be quite comforting. If I were to memorialize Southards Pond using Hood's 'triad of investigations,
I would make sure that my design was timeless and simple too. Sometimes a break from excitement can be refreshing. I also would want my design to be
in an unexpected or even mundane place, like Southards is in the middle of my suburban town. I would also want my commemoration to be central to the
community. Southards is a place where people interact and connect. It blends to any person’s way of life and it is whatever you want it to be.
http://thumbs.imagekind.com/4568445_650/Path-To-Southards-Pond-Babylon-New-York_art.jpg?v=1392304440

15. Response to the Brookes
The abolitionist poster, the Brookes, is an iconic image that often is included in exhibits that explore issues of race and power. It was
commissioned by Thomas Clarkson in 1788, and the Committee of the Abolition of Slavery used it to inform and shock the public. While some
consider the poster as an important component of the abolitionist campaign, it recently “has been strongly criticized by some individuals and
groups of African heritage as providing a very limited view of the history of the transatlantic slave trade, resistance and abolition (Hudson
2007).” The lesson here is that how a viewer sees an image is dependent upon his/her social, economic, and cultural position. Keeping this in mind,
find another iconic graphic that addresses racial issues and post it for others in your group to view. (Add it to your response by clicking on the
picture in the tools section. Do not add it as an attachment that needs to be opened.) How do you interpret the graphic? What is its meaning?
Now imagine that someone from a racial and cultural background different than your own is looking at the same graphic. Briefly describe this
person. How might s/he interpret its meaning? How might this differ from your interpretation? What are the possible reasons for these
differences? (Consider the three assessment principles mentioned in the article to help you: a technology of vision, an instrument of empathy, and
a symbol of control.)
This photo was taken after the detonation of a nuclear bomb over on the city of Nagasaki by the United States. This was the second and final nuclear
weapon used in warfare to this day. This photo, as well as others depicting the bomb's devastation, are certainly enough to shock the public and evoke
sympathy and emotion. It is estimated that anywhere from 60,000 to 80,000 people were killed by the bomb. Though the United States government saw
this as a necessary act to end World War 2, thousands of innocent men, women, and children were murdered by this weapon. The nuclear bombs dropped
in Hiroshima and Nagasaki are ugly examples of what humans are capable of. On the other hand, the power that these nuclear weapons yielded served as a
cautionary tale for the world. We have the power to destroy each other. This concept of mutually assured destruction can be argued as a reason these
nuclear bombs were the last to be detonated. Someone fighting in the war, or their family members, friends, or more militaristic people, might have seen
this bomb as unavoidable. It is estimated that without these weapons, the war might have gone on for more months, or even years. It can even be argued
that the outcome of the war might have been different without the bombs. Racist propaganda is one main device that was used by the American
government to justify the bombings on Japan11
. There were large amounts of anti-Japanese sentiments, that were further bolstered by the attack on Pearl
Harbor at the beginning of the war. During World War 1, thousands of Japanese Americans were placed in internment camps by the American
government. These racist feelings existed before the war as well. The United States government placed several immigration restrictions on the Japanese
11
"Why Japan? The Racism of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki Bombings." The Ecologist. N.p., 12 Aug. 2016. Web.

16. people. People who possessed these feelings toward Japanese Americans and were angered by the events at Pearl Harbor would have supported the
droppings of the nuclear bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki as well.
http://www.atomicheritage.org/sites/default/files/Nagasaki%20bomb%20Wikimedia%20Commons%20small.jpg

17. Response to Charles Davis and equityXdesign's Work
Critique either the MLK Memorial or the National Museum of African American History and Culture using equityXdesign’s core beliefs and/or
design principles. (Use the beliefs or principles that are most relevant to your critique rather than all of them.)
One of the core design principle of equityXdesign is to design at the margins12
. This principle argues that designs should be inclusive, not exclusive, and
that they should not only be available to the powerful and privileged. To start off, the National Museum of African American History and Culture has free
admission, as well as all the Smithsonian museums. Anyone can experience it and learn from it. The museum is not a place where only people of a certain
socio-economic status or of a certain race or ethnicity can visit, it is a place for everyone to learn about and appreciate a culture. It is important to learn
about people who are different from you to gain a perspective or lens that is different from your own. Another core design principle of equityXdesign is to
start with yourself. This principle talks about how a person’s identity creates their lens through which they see the world. The museum, as well as any
design, needs to do a better job at accounting for people's own personal biases, so that they can engage better with the design.
http://blogs.smithsonianmag.com/aroundthemall/files/2013/11/NMAAHC-Car1200-brochure_Final_25Aug12_b.jpg
12
EquityXdesign. "Racism and Inequity Are Products of Design. They Can Be Redesigned." Medium. N.p., 15 Nov. 2016. Web.

18. Response to "Landscape Stories" Chapter
Describe a place in your home (indoors and/or outdoors) that you think of as representative of your own ethnic background and discuss why you
consider this place to be ‘ethnic’. –OR-- Describe an object in your home that you think of as representative of your ethnic background and
discuss why this object is considered to be ‘ethnic’. (If possible, add photo/s.) Is this object or place something that you will keep or continue when
you establish your own home? Why or why not? Now let’s move into your community. In “Landscape Stories,” the authors show how landscape
architects develop a historical narrative that sifts through and interprets the culture and material of underrepresented groups. Think about the
community where you grew up. Describe and discuss any evidence of cultural influences on the physical environment in your community. If
possible, describe evidence of the cultural influence of an underrepresented group. (If possible, add photo/s.) Is this cultural influence being
acknowledged or preserved from future generations? Why or why not?
In my house, as well as my grandmother and my uncle's, we have a framed picture of John F. Kennedy hanging on the wall. JFK was the first Irish-
Catholic president of the United States. To the Irish, who were discriminated against when they first began immigrating to the United States, JFK is a
simple of courage, inspiration, and accomplishment. The picture that we have in my home was passed down from my grandfather. It exemplifies my Irish
American heritage. The town where I grew up, Babylon Village, lacks diversity. It is very small and made up primarily of white, Christians. There are 11
churches in my town and my town in total is only 3 square miles large. There is only 1 temple, and no mosques. This clearly demonstrates the domination
of one culture over another in my town. Being anything other than Christian is pretty much unheard of in Babylon. On days where there are confirmations
being had or other religious celebrations, the schools are empty. Due to the large number of Christians in my town, and large availability and
encouragement to continue to worship the faith, this cultural influence is most being preserved for future generations.

20. Response to Article on Sports Branding
Recent controversies about sports branding focus on ethnicity. The Washington Redskins team is just one example of the larger controversy, but
it receives the most public attention due to the name itself being defined as derogatory or insulting in modern dictionaries, and the prominence of
the team representing the nation’s capital. Should sports team branding designers use ethnic references (Fighting Irish, Boston Celtics, Atlanta
Braves, etc.)? Why? Why not? What are some of the complexities of this issue?
I think that everyone can view or perceive things in different ways. There are some people that are offended by things, and others who are indifferent.
Also, there are aimed to offend and things that do by accident and ignorance. I do believe that the Washington Redskins is a derogatory and offensive team
name. Most NFL and other sports teams are branded by animals and beasts, so the name equates Native Americans to these things. Also, the term redskin
in general is offensive. I also think that ignorance plays into this controversy. There are a lot of terms out there that exist in people's vernacular, that they
are not even aware that they are offensive. There are also some people who are more easily offended than others. I think that sports team brand designers
should steer away from using ethnic references, especially if they don't understand their caliber.
http://vignette4.wikia.nocookie.net/collegefootballmania/images/b/b4/NFC-Logo-WAS.png/revision/latest?cb=20120328004118

21. Response to "Visualizing Gender" Chapter
In their chapter “Communicating Gender,” Maya Ganesh and Gabi Sobliye discuss two primary visual advocacy approaches: 1) get the idea,
and 2) stories in data. Find a new example of either of the two visual advocacy approaches to gender issues, and post it in this thread.
First, identify the approach. Then explain how the designer uses the approach to communicate a gender issue. Is the approach effective in this
example? Why or why not? How could this graphic be improved?
The approach that I am using is "get the idea". The goal of this technique is to evoke emotions from an audience using a controversial or shocking image
or expression to change their views and actions. In this image, which is a part of a 4-picture series done by the United Nations, the designers effectively
provoke feelings from the viewer while also informing them on a gender issue. These auto-completed Google searches demonstrate misogynistic attitudes
displayed toward women around the world. Many have a stereotypical picture in their heads as to what a woman's place in the home, workplace, place of
worship and world should be. But, the reality is that it is a new, and long overdue era. Women and men should be given the same opportunities. No woman
should be tied down to these stereotypical views. As it is succinctly summed up at the end of the image, "women should have the right to make their own
decisions". This image also demonstrates how far women must go in the fight for gender equality, and to be viewed in an equal light. Overall, it is a simple
and easy to understand graphic that effectively conveys a point and evokes emotion from the viewer.
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/8b/2f/ef/8b2fef72163db33a9b036fa1cea1379f.jpg

22. Response to Bathroom Bill
Last year, North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory signed into law a bill that repealed local LGBT anti-discrimination laws, and required people
to use the bathroom that corresponded with the biological gender written on their birth certificates. This prompted massive backlash. McCrory
stated, “You know, we all have to make adjustments in life. And we’ve had the proper etiquette situation for decades in our country, and
suddenly through political correctness we’re throwing away basic etiquette.” Just this past Thursday, the North Carolina General Assembly
passed a bill to repeal the law while placing a moratorium on nondiscrimination measures. Should people be required to use the bathroom that
corresponds with the biological gender written on their birth certificate? State why AND state why not. In other words, to receive full credit for
this question, you need to present an argument for both sides of the issue. As a designer, how would you solve this gender dilemma?
People should be allowed to use whatever bathroom that corresponds to the gender that they identify with. LGBT people, as well as any other citizen of the
United States, should be protected under the law. Discrimination against any group or individual should not be enabled by the government. The availability
of transgender bathroom will decrease bullying as well and allow for further acceptance of these citizens in society. On the other hand, people opposed to
the availability of either bathroom to transgender people could feel off put by this and it could lead to a rise in hate crimes. Also, it would be like
eliminating bathroom gender distinctions all together. It can also be argued that this would violate rights to privacy as well. This may open the door for sex
offenders and perverts to enter any restroom that they choose. To counter this point, there are no locks on the doors to public restrooms, so anybody can
just walk into the bathroom that they desire anyway. As a designer, to solve this issue I would create the availability for both male, female and all gender
restrooms, like there are in some of the buildings at UB. This way, there is a choice for every bathroom goer which room they would like to do their
business in.
http://images.dailykos.com/images/242333/story_image/gender-neutral-restroom-sign.jpg?1461282284

23. Response to People Like Us
After almost two decades of public assistance, Tammy Crabtree took herself and her family off the welfare rolls. But her job cleaning bathrooms
at a local Burger King barely paid the bills. Crabtree wanted to do better and hopes to go to college and become a teacher.
Imagine this scenario. You are a designer who works at the well-known firm, iPD (Integrated Planning and Design). You work on a team with
planners, urban designers, policy designers, architects, and social designers. You have been tasked to develop/design a way for Tammy Crabtree
and her family (and others with situations similar to Tammy’s) to move themselves out of poverty. What will your team to do to help Tammy and
her family achieve their goals? What approach will your team take to address this difficult problem?
If I were a designer from iPD, I would make sure that Tammy's sons are going to school and applying themselves. They also should focus on studying and
going to extra help sessions to hopefully attend college after high school. They may even be able to qualify for scholarships or financial aid. Any part time
jobs that the sons could get would be a huge help also. Tammy's older son shows a lot of ambition and interest in college and making a better life for his
family already, and this would help him to achieve this goal. This would not only provide extra money for the family, but it would help to take some of the
stress off Tammy. Tammy should consider another part time job as well, perhaps something closer to home. This might even allow Tammy some time and
money to fix her car, or even start a few classes at a local community college, to achieve her goal of going to college and becoming a school teacher.
Tammy’s position may help her to qualify for financial aid or grants as well to help her to attend college.
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/37ZpauS5Doo/hqdefault.jpg

24. Response to Carroll Article: “(Re)forming Regent Park: When Policy Does Not Equal Practice”
The development of Regent Park is phased, and there are several more phases to the project. What actions could be taken to ensure more social
integration for the older people living in the ‘new and improved’ Regent Park?
There are several actions that could be taken to ensure more social integration for the older people living in the 'new and improved' Regent Park. Firstly,
residents of the park should be kept connected to the process. Hazel M. points out that her and fellow residents had good ideas about the development but
they weren't listened to. This also will help designers and policy makers had better understand the populations that they are serving, and help to keep those
groups in mind during the process. It is also important for designers to develop shared communal spaces that are easily accessible to aid in social
integration. The old Regent Park community felt a strong sense of community and all relied on each other for support. These bonds would be preserved if
spaces like this existed as well.
http://urbantoronto.ca/sites/default/files/imagecache/display-slideshow/images/articles/2013/05/7608/urbantoronto-7608-26570.jpg

25. Response to Enriquez TED Talk: “What Will Humans Look Like in 100 Years?”
For this question, we will focus on Juan Enriquez’ Life Two civilization, which alters fundamental aspects of the body. We are living longer than
ever before in human history. Enriquez argues that, because of advances in bio-medical technology, the possibility of living to 120 years of age
and beyond is quite possible for many of us in this D+D class. Assuming that his assertion is accurate, how do you think extended life spans will
change our societies and built environments? What new issues might designers face because of extended life spans?
If people's lifespans are increasing, the amount of people in the "elderly" demographic ultimately increases. This would absolutely change our societies
and built environments because the population would be increased. People living longer would mean more people on social security and pensions for
longer and a drastic increase in healthcare costs. Not only will designers have to account for elder people in their designs, they will have to account for
more people overall. Designers would have to find ways to keep communities and spaces equitable and linked, despite the increase in the amount of
people. Designs would have to be more efficient, using similar strategies discussed by Kent Larson in the week 5 module, conserving space for more
practical uses. Designers could implement movable walls, tables and other features discussed by Larson to make a smaller space seem twice as large and
increase the livability, comfort and ultimately the amount of the residents that exist in a space. This would help to account for the increase in population in
our societies. Also, a dominance of elderly people would increase the need for wheelchair accessible buildings with ramps and other features. Home based
healthcare technologies would become more prominent as well, perhaps as a response to the rise of healthcare costs and limited access to healthcare.
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26. Response to PPT, Smithsonian, and Roy
The two most frequently mentioned models of disability are the ‘social’ and the ‘medical’ models. The medical model of disability views disability
as a medical ‘problem’ that belongs to the disabled individual. The social model of disability, in contrast, draws on the idea that it is society that
disables people, through designing everything to meet the needs of most people who are not disabled. There is a recognition within the social
model that there is a great deal that society can do to reduce, and ultimately remove, some of these disabling barriers, and that this task is the
responsibility of society, rather than the disabled person. In the Smithsonian online exhibition, the story about the superhero hand, and Elise
Roy’s TED Talk, you saw examples of ways to engage disability that use the social model rather than the medical model. In the Disability and
Design PowerPoint, you were introduced to the concept of Universal Design (UD) (sometimes called inclusive design, design-for-all, or human-
centered design). In this same PowerPoint, you saw positive and negative examples of each of the seven principles of universal design. For the
Module 12 Thread 1, please select one of the seven universal design principles, and post photographs that show both a positive and a negative
example of the principle. Then address the following question: How do your examples empower or disempower various people? Describe the
specific features of the positive example and the specific features of the negative example. Discuss ways that the positive example could be even
further improved.
The one of the seven universal design principles that applies to these photographs is tolerance for error. This principle covers designs that eliminate, isolate
and shield hazards. They also minimize inconvenience and anticipate accidental or unintended actions. This first photograph violates this universal design
principle. Infrastructure should be designed universally, so that anybody of any ability level can navigate it in the same way. This broken sidewalk
provides no path of best travel for a person in a wheelchair, walking with a cane or even an able-bodied traveler. This leaves any traveler, especially a
traveler with a disability at a disadvantage. Sidewalks should be void of any large cracks or breaks, and should be at a level grade for easy travel.
http://doniganmerritt.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/buenos_aires_city_of_potholes_and_cracked_sidewalks.jpg

27. This second photograph is a positive example of this universal design principle. This pedestrian curb ramp doesn't have any cracks or breaks. Also, its
slope isn't too steep so that a person in a wheelchair, walking with a cane or even an able-bodied traveler can easily move up it. There is also a clearly
marked crosswalk and detectable warning at the base or the ramp. These features shield people from hazards and minimize inconvenience. A way that this
design could be further improved is if the curb in front of the ramp was flatter, allowing for an easier transition onto the ramp from the street, and
minimizing trip hazards.
http://www.pedbikesafe.org/PEDSAFE/cm_images/CurRam1.jpg

28. Response to Survey, FIXED, and Stelarc
Currently, we have the technology for you to choose many of the survey characteristics in your future child, and this ability to choose poses some
ethical questions. Of course, we all want the best for our own child. However, as we move into a more collective situation, we need to consider how
the consequences of majority choices for children might change who we are as a species. In the film trailer FIXED, you were introduced to the
dilemma of living in a culture in which the “science-fiction of human enhancement” has become almost a way of life, from prenatal genetic
screening to bionic body parts. In the video, “A Man with Three Ears” you are introduced to an artist who is using current technology to move
humans beyond their current abilities. Last week, Juan Enriquez asked us if it is ethical to evolve the human body. These videos suggest that the
concept of disability ‘as we know it’ could cease to exist in the future. This leads us to this week’s discussion question: What lessons do you think
we should learn from history when thinking about emerging enhancement technologies and reproductive technologies? What are some of the
possible consequences (both positive and negative) of being able to design our bodies and the bodies of our children? What ethical quandaries do
these technologies pose?
I think that not only history teaches us important lessons about technology being taken to far, or being put into the wrong hands, but literature does as well.
This topic makes me think of the novel Brave New World by Aldous Huxley. In the book, the government uses technological advancements to control
reproduction. They use this technology to modify the way that people think and what they think, and are bred to do certain jobs and tasks. Nobody really
has an individual identity and are merely "cogs in the wheel" of a society. If we manipulate reproduction too much, we risk the elimination of diversity and
might see some consequences, as demonstrated by Brave New World. This novel raise some of the ethical quandaries of technological innovations. On the
other hand, reproductive manipulation can have some positive consequences. For couples or singles who wish to have a child and cannot conceive, there
are methods such as artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization. Also, technologies discussed by Juan Enriquez or displayed in "The Man with Three
Ears" demonstrate how these advancements and technologies can help us. Eliminating disability and modifying humans may be necessary for survival.
http://media.mercola.com/ImageServer/Public/2013/October/gmo-baby.jpg

29. Response to Titicut Follies
The state of Massachusetts tried to ban the 1967 documentary Titicut Follies, arguing that director Frederick Wiseman had violated the patients’
rights by not getting written permission to film them. The case went to court, and Wiseman argued that he had consent from their legal guardian,
the institution. After a judge ruled in favor of the state, the legal appeals carried on for several years: in 1969, Massachusetts allowed the film to
be shown to doctors, lawyers, and health care professionals; in 1991, a superior court judge ruled it could be released for the “general public,” as
privacy concerns were no longer at issue, so many years later.
Should Wiseman have been allowed to film the residents of Bridgewater Massachusetts Correctional Facility? Why or why not? How might this
film be of value to designers (communication designers, product, designers, architects, interior designers, planners, landscape designers, systems
designers, and/or social designers)? In other words, what might they gain from this film that they could use in their work?
Frederick Wiseman should have been allowed to film the residents of Bridgewater Massachusetts Correctional Facility. This is because as patients at a
state prison for the criminally insane, their legal guardian is the institution itself. Certain rights, such as the right to privacy and protection from search and
seizure, are stripped in prisons. Inmates retain their first amendment rights to free speech, religion, press, petition and assembly in prison though, if they do
not interfere with their status as inmates. This film exposes the mistreatment of patients by facility staff and the poor design of the complex. The film
might be of value to designers because it demonstrates to them wrongs that can be easily righted. In the "Design for Dementia" video, simple designs, and
techniques that aid in the living conditions of the patients are displayed. These kinds of solution can apply to other mentally ill patients as well, even at
places like Bridgewater Massachusetts Correctional Facility as well. Design solutions not only make the job of caretakers easier, but they can work to calm
patients down and improve their overall quality of life.
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/8/85/TiticutFolliesPoster.jpg

30. The Architecture of Autism, Public Space
Prelude: Wolf Wolfensberger's seminal work "The Origin and Nature of Our Institutional Models" posited that society characterizes people with
intellectual disabilities as sub-human and burdens of charity, He argued that this dehumanization, and the segregated institutions that result
from it, ignored the potential productive contributions that all people can make to society. He pushed for a shift in policy and practice that
recognized the human needs of those with intellectual challenges and provided the same basic human rights as for the rest of the population.
The Scenario: Imagine that you and your four children live in Amherst, New York in a $650,000 home at the end of a cul-de-sac on the edge of a
ten acre woods. The town has purchased a one acre lot three houses away from yours, and plans to build a group home for ten intellectually
challenged adults. As a resident of the neighborhood, would you support or oppose this proposal and why?
You've learned additional information about the residents of the proposed group home in your neighborhood. In 2013, three of the ten intended
residents exhibited challenging behaviors including screaming, public masturbation, repetitive rocking, and echolalia (elective incontinence).
However, these behaviors have not occurred since then. How would this change your opinion about the construction of the group home in your
neighborhood?
The residents in your neighborhood voted (14-3) to reject the town of Amherst’s proposal to build a group home in the neighborhood. Town
officials agreed that the home would not be built in your neighborhood if you and your neighbors could develop a workable alternative.
What are some possible solutions that would allow the residents of the home to be provided with “the same basic human rights as the rest of the
population”?
I do not think that I would be comfortable with the construction of the group home. This facility would decrease the property value of my home, and I also
do not know if I would be comfortable, or if my children would be comfortable, living in proximity to this home. The behaviors displayed by some of the
intended residents of the home would warrant extra security in the home. Some solutions that would allow the residents of the home to be provided with
"the same basic human rights as the rest of the population" such as privacy would be monitoring residents with infrared cameras, so that their privacy is
maintained, but if they have any complications or need assistance, a caregiver can be alerted and will be ready to assist them. This is a noninvasive way to
look after residents while they can still maintain some independence. An accommodating and well trained staff would be needed to live in the home with
the residents as well. A combination of sensing, communicative and adaptive structures will strongly aid in the design and overall quality of life of the
residents of the home, and ultimately the surrounding community members.
https://www.parkviewservices.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/ParkviewServices-BigPhoto-1.jpg

31. Response to The Connection Between Religion and Urban Planning by David Engwicht
In his article, David Engwicht discusses the fact that religions (of all types) have played major roles in the development of our cities. Today, places
of worship are primary components of almost all urban centers. Author Lorne Daniel writes “From their often active role in supporting people
who live in city centers to their iconic influence on design and use of space, religious structures tell us a lot about our history, our current needs,
and where we might be headed in the future. This is an aspect of our urban future that planners and urbanists should attend to.”
Identify a place of worship with which you are somewhat familiar. (If you are not familiar with any places of worship, do a bit of research on one
in your own city or town.) Show a photograph of this religious structure. (You may use photographs from the web.) What roles has this place
served in the development of your city/town? How has it influenced the design of the area around it? How has its role changed over time? What
roles could this place of worship play in the future development of your city/town?
A place of worship that I am familiar with is St Joseph's Roman Catholic church. In my town, this church and its grounds take up a lot of space and it is
situated right in the center of town. St. Joseph’s is a central part of my community. The building is historic and well kept. It consists of not only a church,
but a social hall, a gymnasium, a soup kitchen, a thrift store, a preschool, offices, upper level classrooms and rectory housing. A lot of community events
take place at St. Joseph’s because a large majority of my town is catholic. It was very unlikely when I was little not to see everyone that I knew at church
on Sundays. The church also supports youth sport leagues. Until I was a teenager, I played basketball, volleyball, and ran track through my church. The
area around St. Joseph’s is well maintained as well. The sidewalks are all accessible and well structured so that older people, who tend to be frequent
church goers, have easy access to the buildings. The church is also well connected to the rest of town and its resources as well. Through not only its role to
keep faith in people’s lives, the church maintains its community outreach and charity, as well as its work to keep kids active and involved, St Joseph’s
church helps in the development of my town.
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32. Response to Prospects for the Future of Diversity and Design
Consider the quote in your syllabus from educator Michael J. Shannon: “Design, as vision in action--the intersection of understanding and
creation--is a universal human capability that can play a fundamental role in social evolution, in the process that transforms resources, energy,
and information to make our world.”
At the beginning of this course, we discussed the idea that we are all designers regardless of our profession or field of study. We’ve asked some big
questions along the way, and the conclusion section of our textbook raises additional issues that require input from people who might not consider
themselves to be part of the formalized design professions.
Think about your own major and/or future profession. What is the biggest challenge, problem, or question that your field needs to tackle right
now? What do you plan to do to address this challenge, problem, or question either as part of your studies or professional life?
My major is environmental engineering. One of the major challenges that my field needs to tackle is the deterioration of the environment. The planet is
becoming an increasingly more crowded place. We as a people are producing more and consuming more. Humans are negatively affecting the earth's
natural systems and resources at an increasing rate. Pollution harms not only the environment, but human health as well. Ways to address this problem are
raising awareness. Educating people on this problem will help to eliminate some of the things that people do in their daily lives that contribute to the
problem. Designing and building more environmentally friendly and sustainable systems will be beneficial as well.
https://blog.mint.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/earth-day.jpg