Sentient House: Designing for Discourse

TL;DR

This paper explores participatory design methods to involve the public in critically examining pervasive home technology, aiming to foster transparency and societal engagement in technological development.

Contribution

It introduces a framework using Interaction Design approaches to enhance public participation in critical design discussions about home technology.

Findings

Public is receptive to active involvement in designing digital futures.

Designers can reveal hidden consequences of technology.

Participatory approaches foster critical debate on pervasive tech.

Abstract

The Sentient House project is an investigation into approaches that the artistdesigner can take to better involve the public in developing a critical perspective on pervasive technology in the home and the surrounding environment. Using Interaction Design approaches including workshops, surveys, rapidprototyping and critical thinking, this thesis suggests a framework for developing a more participatory atmosphere for Critical Design. As the world becomes more connected, and smarter, citizens concerns are being sidelined in favour of rapid progress and solutionism. Many of these initiatives are backed by government and commercial concerns who may not have the publics best interest at heart. The designs and approaches generated from this public participation seek to provide an outlet for a more agonistic debate and to develop tools and approaches to engage the public in questioning and addressing how technology affects them in the future. The outcomes of this research suggest that the public is receptive to a more active involvement in designing their digital future, and that the designer can be a critical component in revealing hidden consequences and alternative pathways for a more transparent and desirable future.