Mariana Tamashiro, an independent designer with a diverse background in creative learning and technology, recently led a workshop titled “In Their (Small) Shoes: A Journey Into Child-Computer Interaction Design” at the Institute for Futures Technologies (IFT), of De Vinci Higher Education.
This workshop offered a fresh perspective on child-computer interaction design.
The intersection of design and education
Mariana Tamashiro’s journey into design and learning began in Brazil, where she was drawn to the potential of technology as a medium for expression at the country’s first independent FabLab.
This passion propelled her to the MIT Media Lab, where she delved deeper into the intersection of design and education. This culminated in her doctoral thesis at Aarhus University, Denmark, where she explored innovative methods of teaching teenagers about emerging technologies through fiction.
Understanding the nuances of Child-Computer Interaction (CCI)
The workshop she conducted at IFT was a culmination of her expertise and dedication to understanding the nuances of Child-Computer Interaction (CCI).
Lasting for two hours, participants were invited to embark on a journey into childhood, tapping into their memories and experiences to gain insights into the evolving landscape of CCI. The workshop was divided into two parts:
1. Reflective Journey: Participants were prompted to reflect on their childhood experiences, connecting them to the historical trajectory of Child-Computer Interaction. From the rudimentary interfaces of early educational software to the immersive virtual worlds of today, the session provided a comprehensive overview of the field’s evolution and its implications for design.
2. Collaborative Prototyping: In the second part, participants were actively involved in a prototyping session, guided by constructionist and creative learning perspectives. They worked together, designing artefacts that catered to children’s unique needs and sensibilities. This interactive and collaborative approach fostered empathy and understanding in the design process, making it a truly engaging experience.
Thinking as a child and its benefits towards research
The workshop wasn’t just a one-time event but a transformative experience. It was about more than designing for children; it was about thinking like them.
By immersing themselves in childhood, participants sharpened their design sensibilities, paving the way for more thoughtful and grounded practices in technology and education.
Mariana Tamashiro’s workshop was not merely an event; it was a catalyst for change—a reminder that the future we envision is shaped by the choices we make today, especially for those who inherit it: our children.
IFT engaged in research spread
The Institute for Futures Technologies (IFT) is not just a space; it’s a mindset—a commitment to forging paths towards a sustainable, inclusive, and human-centric future.
Nestled within the De Vinci Research Center (DVRC), it serves as a beacon for transdisciplinary education and innovation, supported by the collaborative efforts of the three schools under the De Vinci Higher Education umbrella: EMLV, ESILV, and IIM.