Film in design research

There are two ways that I use film. Firstly as a way of advancing a prototyping. Film can communicate conceptual design ideas that don't necessarily exist in reality, but that can be made believable or credible on screen. Done in this way, film allows deign researchers access to the public to test out ideas and concepts without making them real. It's therefore an essential way of enabling public engagement with an issue.

Secondly, I use film for design documentaries. Such documentaries are used to share the findings of a research stage, document a particular behaviour, or record people's engagement with a design outcome or event. 

 

film as design prototype: Reality reorientation

As this research project developed our focus turned from those with dementia to the family and friends of those with dementia, and specifically to the physical and emotional journey these people go on when visiting their friend or relative. We wanted to suggest a conceptual future where there was a more supportive framework in place for these people. 

This video isn't trying to suggest that the designs that prompt a change in behaviour would work for everyone, but we want people to believe that this is how it could be for one person. By focusing on the individual we hoped for a credible engagement in our project from those affected by dementia. 

 

Research documentary: Dementia interviews

Film is a great way of engaging people in the research process and getting to the heart of the matter.

In this post-graduate research project we interviewed six experts in the field of dementia, from clinical psychologists, carers, music therapists, through to family members of those with dementia. Alongside an in-depth research paper this film looks to summarise the findings of our research and provide a focus for the project to come. 

 

Documenting a behaviour: Inaccessible space

As part of a project looking at use of public spaces this film documents a specific behaviour around how people use public spaces when there is something blocking their way.

The film looks to communicate with one simple example how people avoid something in their way.