My work – highlights
My development
During my Master’s, I have developed in five expertise areas (EAs): Math, Data & Computing (MD&C), User & Society (U&S), Creativity & Aesthetics (C&A), Technology & Realisation (T&R), and Business & Entrepreneurship (B&E).
My skill level in MD&C has grown from beginner to intermediate during my Master’s. I have discovered diffractive data-driven design [13], designed with existing data, and integrated computing into my high-fidelity prototypes. However, I want to integrate the use of data more systematically into my design process, especially when validating prototypes. During my Master’s, I have mostly relied on my skills and knowledge in U&S and C&A to validate my prototypes. I usually let people interact with my (low-fi) prototypes and ask reflective questions about their experience, guided by my natural social sensitivity and knowledge from my Sociology minor. I also discovered the Magic Machines workshops [5][6] in the first year of my Master’s. This method changed my perspective on engineering, as I learned how low-fi prototyping can be used for self-expression and self-understanding. This relates to U&S and C&A, but also to T&R, because it helped me develop a better understanding of how materials, levels of fidelity, and context can influence engagement and participation. My aesthetic decisions are not just about form, but about creating accessible and inviting entry points for participation, which connects back to both U&S and B&E.
In addition to low-fidelity prototyping, I have become more confident in high-fidelity prototyping during the second year of my Master’s. Before that, I used to avoid programming and working with hardware. This is why I am especially proud of my growth in the expertise area T&R. During the course Innovation Through Art & Design, my group and I developed an interactive art installation for the Neuron building at the TU/e, and I took on the role of electrical engineer for the team. When it became clear that our concept needed more complex circuitry and programming, Team IGNITE got involved and they helped realise the finished artwork. For my Final Master Preparation project, I designed a community crafting intervention at Codam, a software engineering school in Amsterdam, and I showcased my Final Master Project at the METAMORPH exhibition, which both strengthened my competence in B&E. Additionally, I have worked as the student assistant for the Expertise Centre Dementia & Technology (ECDT) throughout my Master’s. I manage their communication channels (website, newsletter, LinkedIn), and in September I will start working there full-time. I will be responsible for organizing their presence at Dutch Design Week, in collaboration with Alzheimer NL and the Sint Anna Hospital.
Go to my M1.1–M2.2 overview to see how specific courses, projects, and extracurricular activities have contributed to my development.
References
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Dana Starmans 