Toward a Public Rhetoric Through Participatory Design: Critical Engagements and Creative Expression in the Neighborhood Networks Project

• Published in: Design issues 2012-07, Vol.28 (3), p.48-61
• Main Authors: DiSalvo, Carl, Louw, Marti, Holstius, David, Nourbakhsh, Illah, Akin, Ayça
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Design; Design volume; Environmental technology; History of technology; Neighborhoods; Participatory design; Robotics; Robots; Sensors; Technology
• ISSN: 0747-9360; 1531-4790
• DOI: 10.1162/DESI_a_00161

Describes the development of the Neighborhood Networks Project in Pittsburgh, USA, a Participatory Design research project investigating the facilitation of political action through computing. By promoting critical engagement with technology, the authors intended to provide people with experience to allow them to make informed judgements about the possible capabilities and role of technology in examining their urban environment, and to affect issues of concern. Community workshops were set up with the initial phases designed to familiarise participants with sensing and robotics technology through 'scavenger hunt' activities, using professional sound-level and air quality platforms; a second session introduced users to a robust low-cost sensor, which they compared with the professional versions. Storyboards of possible prototypes of sensors and how they would be used were prepared for presentation at a public event. One participant developed an idea for a robot camera to capture noise from passing vehicles which prompted further discussion of the feasibility and legality of this technology. The authors conclude that the project allowed participants to develop tools to analyse local problems and capture the attention of others in support of their agendas.