Design Fiction Play
How can design fiction be used to improve learning?
Themes: design fiction, prototyping, performance art, & learning
Background
French theorist Paul Virilio observed, “The invention of the ship was also the invention of the shipwreck”. ​
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With new technology also comes the responsibility to think through its consequences for society. Design fiction is a forward looking twist on science fiction in which its designers build a story around a yet to be developed prop that stimulates discussion on the positive and negative impacts of the new technology.
This new art form can help society think about problems and solutions before they’re created. Product designers can use the information gained to inform future product development. Governments can think through possible impacts on infrastructure, laws and regulations.
Project
Working in teams create a design fiction play about a new learning device. As part of this project you will build a prop of a tool that meets your objective.
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The idea for your project could be an expansion of an existing technology or something more futuristic. Think about what is frustrating about the way you learn today and how you might improve it with an advancement in technology.
Keep in mind that you don't have to worry about whether or not the solution is possible.
Your play should open up a discussion between you and your audience, with the goal of obtaining feedback on the things that you may not have thought of yet.
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Example of a design fiction short film from 2011: Fly me to the moon - video (2:51)
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