Using Schema to Inform Method Design Practices

TL;DR

This paper explores how schemas can support the development of design methods, especially for addressing ethical complexity, by providing frameworks, classifiers, tools, and interactive channels for method design.

Contribution

It introduces four innovative ways for method designers to utilize schemas in creating and refining design methods focused on ethical design challenges.

Findings

Schemas operationalize complex design constructs.

Classifiers help map and generate new methods.

Interactive channels facilitate engagement and exploration.

Abstract

There are many different forms of design knowledge that guide and shape a designer's ability to act and realize potential realities. Methods and schemas are examples of design knowledge commonly used by design researchers and designers alike. In this pictorial, we explore, engage, and describe the role of schemas as tools that can support design researchers in formulating methods to support design action, with our framing of method design specifically focused on ethical design complexity. We present four ways for method designers to engage with schema: 1) Systems to operationalize complex design constructs such as ethical design complexity through an A.E.I.O.YOU schema; 2) Classifiers to map existing methods and identify the possibility for new methods through descriptive semantic differentials; 3) Tools that enable the creation of methods that relate to one or more elements of the schema through creative departures from research to design; and 4) Interactive channels to playfully engage potential and new opportunities through schema interactivity.