Project 3 -- GO PUBLIC: Publishing your D+D Experience

1. University at Buffalo – State University of New York
ARC 211 – American Diversity and Design – Spring 2017
Online Discussion Questions
Madelaine Ong
http://ncu.edu/images/diversity-
typography_adj.jpg

2. INTRODUCTION
Hello, my name is Madelaine and I'm a freshman majoringin
architecture. I was born and raised in New York City. I enjoy going to art
galleries, reading, watchingmovies, and always going on food trips in my free time!
After coming to a close in being a part of American Diversity and Design,I developed
and grown an understanding towards essential aspects of my future profession—
becoming a licensed architect. Diversity and Design has opened upmajor conflicts and
important topics to discuss and be aware about. This course has made me think about
how design can have both positive andnegative impacts from ourenvironment to the
diverse world we live in. Being able to see my other classmates’ perspectives has
opened my viewpoint on certaindiscussions. Fromour weeklymodules and discussions
I believe in the future there will be designs that would not only helpus physically but
mentally and socially.
The following pages document my responses to the online discussionquestions in the
Spring 2017 versionof ARC 211 American Diversity and Design at the Universityat
Buffalo – State University of New York.

3. RESPONSE TO “WHAT IS DESIGN?” FROM HELLO
WORLD
https://static01.nyt.com/images/2016/05/06/business/06
STEWART2/06STEWART2-master675.jpg
On “What is design?” from Hello World: Where Design Meets Life by Alice Rawsthron
The authoropened her chapter with the example of Ying Zheng, the ruler of the Qin empire,
one of the most powerful and enduring empires I the history of China. She explained how
design innovation contributed to Ying Zheng’s success. For example, in the development of
weaponry, he resolved many problems by standardizing parts, and this single innovation gave
his armies great advantage over other armies.
For this discussion, let’s move away from 246 B.C. China, and into the U.S. Describe an
innovation or invention (can be current or historical) that gave advantageto a group of
people in the U.S. or to the population as a whole. What were the social impacts of this
innovation? Were any groups negatively impacted by this innovation? For example, the
telegraph, developed and patented in the United States in 1837 by Samuel Morse, permitted
people and commerce to transmit messages across both continents and oceans almost
instantly, with widespread social and economic impacts. This heightened communication
speed allowed business persons to make decisions with up-to-date information, often resulting
in big profits. Thosewithout access had to rely on out-dated information, which put them at a
disadvantage.
During the late 19th century and early 20th century, the invention of the television gave families the
opportunity to spend their leisurely time at home relaxed. When the new medium was introduced in the late 1930s at
the World’s Fair, radio broadcasters were still adjusting to the new invention. People were finally able to not only
listen but visualize huge events occurring all across the nation and be instantly alerted. The innovation brought forth
an exciting new freedom and entertainment that changed the societal norms throughout the century. Americans are
more than attached to their televisions and producers are continually finding new ways to bring TV to smaller
screens whether it be our smartphones or tablets.

4. RESPONSE TO “INTRODUCTION” FROM DIVERSITYAND
DESIGN
http://www.dynavoxtech.com/products/eyemax/
The editors state that “diverse participation in the design process, from both professionals and
public citizens alike, yields more equitable results.” This makes sense, but typically has not
been the case. Nonetheless, many marginalized groups have impacted design in ways that have
changed ourvisual and physical worlds as well as our systems, policies, and institutions. For
example, in the 1960s, disability rights advocates designed media events to raise awareness
about barriers in the physical environment. They persisted with their efforts for decades, and,
finally, in 1990, theAmericans with Disabilities Act became law. It mandated accessibility in
public accommodations such as restaurants and stores, public transportation, communication,
and other areas of public life. This dramatically changed our physical environment (from curb
cuts to ramps to automatic doors) and the results made public life more equitable.
Now it’s your turn. Describe a design that was impacted by a diversity group. How and why
did it change form and/or circumstances? (Note that a design can be anything requiring
planning and development prior to the production of an action, system, visual, material
object, or environment. Also, keep in mind that, for our purposes, a diversity group is a group
of individuals who are underrepresented in society in some way—children, older adults, the
economically disadvantaged, thosewith cognitive disabilities, etc.)
The DynaVox EyeMax system has been a huge breakthrough for the mentally disabled who are
unable to grasp written language. The new design allowed individuals the ability to be apart of communication
with the only the eyes. Phrases are translated into spoken text with an onscreen keyboard through the device’s
text-to-speech mechanism. This innovation became instantly accessible for those who have difficulty with spoken
language.

5. RESPONSE TO MEDIA/SOCIETY CHAPTER AND TED TALK
ON PHOTOGRAPHS
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2013/04/lessons-
learned-from-superstorm-sandy/index.htm
From: Chapterin Media/Society and TED Talk Photos that Changed the World
Where would you place the images shown in Photos That Changed the World into
Croteau and Hoynes' diagram entitled “Model of Media and the Social World”?
Identify a mass media photograph taken in your own lifetime that has served as an
icon of an event. (Feel free to add an attachment.) What roles does this photo play in
the communication of the event?
The images shown in Photos That Changed the World would best be placed
in Croteau and Hoynes' section called "Relationships Between the Media and the Public."
The photographs were taken at a certain moment in history to capture a message to the
audience. Super storm Sandy was one mass media occurrence that has served as an icon
of event. This photo represents how intense the hurricane was and led to huge need for
reconstruction of neighborhoods and housings.
Klein, Jonathan. "Photos that changed the world." Jonathan Klein: Photos that changed the
world | TED Talk | TED.com. Accessed May 1, 2017.
https://www.ted.com/talks/jonathan_klein_photos_that_changed_the_world.

6. RESPONSE TO ARTICLES ON HATS AS COMMUNICATION
DESIGN
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/
18/fashion/womens-march-
washington-fashion-
protest.html?_r=0
From: “Fashioning Protest for the Women’s March on Washington” and “The
Worst Design of 2016 Was Also the Most Effective”
Typically, we do not think of hats as elements of mass media or social media.
However, the two hats (red and pink) discussed in the articles certainly have
taken on that role. Why are the two hats (red and pink) mentioned in the articles
vehicles of communication design? What meanings do each of the two hats
carry? In terms of communication design, how are they similar? And how are
they different from one another?
The two hats refer to two different political views in our current society. The redhats
indicate showing the support for President Donald Trumpwhile the pink hats symbolize “cat-eared hats”
worn by women marching in protest of our newlyelected president. The hats take on the symbolic roleof
displaying which side you are with. Wearing eitherone of these youcan tell one’s political views and
unified individuals with shared beliefs.
Rogers, Katie. "Fashioning Protest for the Women's March on Washington."The New York Times. The New
York Times, 18 Jan. 2017. Web. 01 May 2017.
Budds, Diana. "The Worst Design Of 2016 Was Also The Most Effective."Co.Design. Co.Design, 03 Jan.
2017. Web. 01 May 2017.
https://www.fastcodesign.co
m/3066599/the-worst-design-
of-2016-was-also-the-most-
effective

7. RESPONSE TO ALL MODULE 4 MATERIALS
http://studiogang.com/project/arcus-center-for-social-
justice-leadership
Your readings and viewings this week present different ways of thinking about architecture. Mies
Van der Rohe describes architecture as “The will of the epoch translated into space.” Andrew
Ballantyne describes architecture as the background for life. Jeanne Gang describes it as the act of
building relationships. All agree that architecture can change based on context and culture. Choose
two works of architecture from any of your materials this week—one with sensibilities about the past
and one with sensibilities about the present and/or future. How do each of these buildings either
reflect or challenge their cultural contexts?
From “10 Building that Changed America,” the video introduces one of the oldest buildings
that shaped America--the Virginia State Capitol designedby one of our Founding Fathers, Thomas
Jefferson. He disliked the idea of Britain’s Georgian architecture and wantedto avoidas much colonial
architecture as possible and turn towards the concept of classical architecture.He enjoyed the clean lines,
simple ionic columns, and symmetry.This new design, “createda statement about America beingapart of
the western world but not being beholdenby Great Britain.” In other words, Jefferson’s fresh perception of
the Capitol shaped their cultural context andin the futurebecame the model to follow towards the design of
other famous government buildings.
In “Buildings That Blend Nature and City,” Jeanne Gang introduces architecture as the act
of building relationships. Within the video, Gang discusses a space like the Arcus Center and residential
structure Aqua in which a building can form positive social relations within the occupants. For the Arcus
Center her goal was to create a community meeting house where students can see each other in a central
space. This would create the act of making social activity and enhance a space for cultural exchangeto exist
breaking down certainbarriers. Jeanne Gang’s design was to developa different approachtowards the
architecture and bringingpeople together rather than isolatedin their own world.

8. RESPONSE TO BALLANTYNE AND ZUMTHOR ARTICLES
http://sharedesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Peter-
Zumthor_03.png
Andrew Ballantyne and Peter Zumthorpresent ideas about architecture that seem to
value the sensorial and material elements of life. How are Ballantyne’s and Zumthor’s
viewpoints on architecture alike? More importantly, how do they differ?
Ballantyne and Zumthor’s viewpoints on architecture both discuss the sensory
elements of the human body in correlation to the environment of architectural spaces. Peter
Zumthor’s initial thought towards architecture is how one’s past experiences with familiar
sounds/senses in previous surroundings can shape the feeling of another architectural building.
Zumthor discusses how the interior occupancy of a space and the small details frame the
essence of the habitual structure. Andrew Ballantyne explores how architecture is created by
one’s experience and how each piece of architecture acts as its own. He indicates how when we
create buildings based off of everyday habits the space becomes ignored and we tend to focus
more on the tasks we need to do inside. When we become prone to using the building constantly
we lose the initial feeling we get when we first experience the architecture.

9. RESPONSE TO LEVY ARTICLE
http://www.nyhabitat.com/blog/wp-
content/uploads/2014/03/queens-borough-new-york-nyc-
queensboro-bridge.jpg
John Levy’s article, “An Overview: The Need for Planning,” discussed ways in which
planning can determine the characteristics of a place. For example, some smaller towns
restrict the heights of buildings to maintain a certain scale. How did planning define the
character of the place in which you grew up?
For the majority of my life, I was raised in East Elmhurst a city that’s in Queens,
New York. I live in more of a suburban type of neighborhood with quiet houses and not much of
any traffic. The most noise you would probably hear would be the airplanes flying past every
now and then since I live really close by the airport. Although New York City can be quite lively,
my neighborhood is situated in an isolated place with barely any grocery stores, delis,
restaurants, and other small stores to browseabout. So while I grew up in this neighborhood with
not many stores around, I would hop on the bus and train to travel to other parts of Queens or the
city to either be able to get food, shop, or meet with friends/family. When I was young I used to
not really like where I live because there wasn’t much of any kids to hang out with around but as
I grew older I recognized that it’s a very nice and quiet environment you learn to appreciate.

10. RESPONSE TO PRUITT IGOE PROJECT
http://www.pruitt-igoe.com/YAMA/wp-
content/uploads/2010/09/P-I99.jpg
Imagine that you are part of a urban planning and design firm working with Emily Talen
(authorof “Design That Enables Diversity”) and Kent Larson (who gave theTED Talk
"Brilliant Designs to Fit More People In Every City" The three of you have been tasked with
developing a plan to rebuild Pruitt Igoe in St. Louis. City officials told the three of you that that
they want to do it right this time. Identify three strategies for rebuilding Pruitt Igoe in ways that
promise to be more successful. What would Talen do? What would Larson do? What would you
do? How would your strategies differ from those of the original urban planners/designers of the
project? Why would your strategies be more effective?
The Pruitt Igoe was established to be a large housing place for St. Louis residents. The
project soon declined when the plumbing system started to go downhill and the area became an
unsanitary housing environment. Gang affiliation and violence soon erupted causing toe housing
project to be a dangerous place to be about. In rebuilding Pruitt Igoe I would suggest designing the
area to be based upon what the residents around would want rather than shoving in 12,000 people in
such a closed environment. If I were to work with Emily Talen she would want to redesign the
housing complex to be an environment with much diversity in social class and form stronger bonds
upon each other. Working with Kent Larson, he would want to focus on the quality of the needs
residents want while also being smart about how much construction we would need. By combining
such ideas from these planners I would want Pruitt Igoe to be an open yet intimate space for residents
to be able to enjoy.

11. REPSONSE TO FREDERICK LAW OLMSTED
http://www.pbs.org/wned/frederick-law-olmsted/learn-
more/olmsteds-buffalo-park-system-and-its-stewards/
Displaying his plan at the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia, Frederick Law
Olmsted stated that "Buffalo is the best planned city, as to its streets, public places, and
grounds, in the United States, if not in the world.” What was the basis for this claim? Would
Olmsted still make that claim today? Why or why not?
In the 19th century, Frederick Olmsted created a vision for the residents to be more
connected with Buffalo’s vast rural landscape, away from the city’s growing industrialization.
Through his claim Olmsted was able to successfully group a park system that would create a
feeling that you never left from one park to another. He envisioned a city within a park where
people would want to come live near these places claiming Buffalo had the best planned city. I
think Olmsted would not still make this claim today because certain factors of the city do not
create that “natural” feeling it once held. For instance, Niagara Falls should be an area where
people are able to trail through to get to the Falls in finding the beauty at the end of the travel.
Now, tourism has erupted and people are so easily quick to drive directly to the Falls take their
pictures and leave. Although Olmsted has connected nature with the landscape people aren’t
driven to use the parks as much; the parks seem rather like abandoned green areas of patches
within the city.

12. RESPONSE TO WALTER HOOD’S WORK
https://aslathedirt.files.wordpress.com/2013/
09/deyoung.jpg?w=500
Identify something that should be memorialized either on UB's campus or in yourhometown.
Imagine that you are the person who will oversee this project, and that you are using Walter
Hood's 'triad of investigations' as your approach to the project. What would your landscape
intervention commemorate/memorialize? How will you useHood's 'triad of investigations' to
design a new landscape intervention? What do you imagine that the design will be?
Walter Hood envisioneda place where culture andlandscape can come togetheras one and be
memorialized. Hood’s ‘triadof investigations’was to bring a community that existed at one time to exist once
again in the future. Since majority of mytime is spent on South Campus, I've noticed how much greenery is
exposed to oneself. There's onlya few buildings on South andso much emptybeautiful green space that isn't
being sufficiently used. Fromtime to time I've also noticed a few residents that walk around campus taking
their dogs for a walk. I'd like to incorporatea much morerelaxedplace for students and residents to enjoy
when they either have breaks or take a stroll from time to time. I think addingmoreinterestingpathways
displaying both the architecturestudents’ workand the medical students’recent studies/projects would be a
nice way of colliding the both making a gallery to appreciate each other’s work and hopefullydrawing
residents and inviting them to have a more interestingstroll throughcampus. An open gallery wouldexpose
the students’ work and allow people to also enjoy the nature surrounding themgiving offan alleviating
environment.

13. RESPONSE TO THE BROOKES
http://www.theplaidzebra.com/wp-
content/uploads/2015/02/3_Human-zoo.jpg
The abolitionist poster, the Brookes, is an iconic image that often is included in exhibits that
explore issues of race and power. It was commissioned by Thomas Clarkson in 1788, and the
Committee of theAbolition of Slavery used it to inform and shock the public. While some
consider the poster as an important component of the abolitionist campaign, it recently “has
been strongly criticized by some individuals and groups of African heritage as providing a very
limited view of the history of the transatlantic slave trade, resistance and abolition (Hudson
2007).” The lesson here is that how a viewer sees an image is dependent upon his/her social,
economic, and cultural position. Keeping this in mind, find anothericonic graphic that addresses
racial issues and post it for others in your group to view. How do you interpret the graphic?
What is its meaning? Now imagine that someone from a racial and cultural background
different than your own is looking at the same graphic. Briefly describe this person. How might
s/he interpret its meaning? How might this differ from your interpretation? What are the
possible reasons for these differences?
This graphic shows an African girl being put in a humanzoo in Belgiumwhile the white citizens
seem to be feeding her a banana as if she’s a monkey. The fact that the creationof human zoos were once a thing
and it has been diffused in history is simply unbelievable. Theimage portrays the deep forgottenracism that
once existed where colonizers saw themselves as superior to others and displayed themin such similar matters as
animals. European countries desired exhibitingexotic human“specimens” which I believe is quite morbid.If
someone from a coloredbackground viewedthis photograph theywould be extremelydisgustedwith how
people can portray other humans as an object. This perspective wouldalso be similar to mine because I myself
am apart of the minority communityand believe we aren’t muchdifferent fromone another.We’re all composed
of the same elements so why should one be able to act superior to another.

14. RESPONSE TO CHARLES DAVISAND EQUITYXDESIGN’S
WORK
http://a.abcnews.com/images/Politics/ap_mlk_memorial_quote
_kb_130723_16x9_992.jpg
Critique either the MLK Memorial or the National Museum of African American
History and Culture using equityXdesign’s core beliefs and/or design principles.
Martin Luther King Jr. was an empowering human being who fought for the
lives of African Americans and the injustice they constantly experienced in the 1950s. His
defense in social equality made him an influential figure that would inspire others to follow
his footsteps. The MLK Memorial is a giant sculpture in order to display that a time period
where segregation once existed and what others once witnessed and experienced.
Equityxdesign’s principle 4 can be seen through this sculpture. The sculpture includes a
side quote stating “I was a drum major for justice, peace, and righteousness” that exerts
making the once invisible visible. In other words, the work of art displays what MLK
fought for and voiced the thousands of lives that couldn’t be heard in American society.
The Memorial also includes principle 5: speaking to the future. The addition of this large
piece gives the viewer a sort of appreciation to what has been established and the social
justice that has come a long way.

15. RESPONSE TO “LANDSCAPE STORIES” CHAPTER
First, let’s start with your own home. Describe a place in your home (indoors and/or outdoors) that you think of as representative of your own ethnic
background and discuss why you consider this place to be ‘ethnic’. –OR-- Describe an object in your home that you think of as representative of your ethnic
background and discuss why this object is considered to be ‘ethnic’. (If possible, add photo/s.) Is this object or place something that you will keep or continue
when you establish yourown home? Why or why not?
Now let’s move into yourcommunity. In “LandscapeStories,” the authors show how landscape architects develop a historical narrative that sifts through and
interprets the culture and material of underrepresented groups. Think about the community where you grew up. Describe and discuss any evidence of cultural
influences on the physical environment in your community. If possible, describe evidence of the cultural influence of an underrepresented group. Is this
cultural influence being acknowledged or preserved from future generations? Why or why not?
My father is half Filipino and half Chinese while my mother is full Filipino. Growing up I always noticed how my father surrounds the house with
Chinese zodiac statues, Buddha statues, and other Feng Shui accessories. Many of these accessories are quite heavy and expensive since they are mostly made of gold.
Having these items in our house is a way of representing my own ethnic background because it symbolizes the traditions of my Chinese roots and how we aspire to
always carry good luck, peace, and positivity in our lives. These objects will continue to be carried on in my own home because it is a reminder of where I came from
and to preserve the essence of enduring good fortune and strength in my family.
Where I live in New York City, Queens, I would say is the most diverse out of all the boroughs. Every tiny district contributes to having all cultural ethnic
backgrounds being represented in the society whether it be from our wide variety of different types of restaurants coming from all sorts of different cultures to churches
and mosques for all ethnic groups. Here, there is a place for everyone and it is being shown all throughout the streets of the physical environment giving preservation to
the future generations.

16. RESPONSE TO ARTICLE ON SPORTS BRANDING
http://prod.static.redskins.clubs.nfl.com/nfl-
assets/img/gbl-ico-team/WAS/logos/home/large.png
Recent controversies about sports branding focus on ethnicity. The Washington Redskins team is
just one example of the larger controversy, but it receives the most public attention due to the
name itself being defined as derogatory or insulting in modern dictionaries, and the prominence of
the team representing the nation’s capital. Should sports team branding designers use ethnic
references (Fighting Irish, Boston Celtics, Atlanta Braves, etc.)? Why? Why not? What are some
of the complexities of this issue?
Although executives of pro sports clubs might believe names such as The Washington
Redskins indicate honor and respect, history shows that the term ‘redskin’ meant those Native
Americans who were inherently ignoble or, in other words, those who were murderous and harbored a
malevolent nature. Some of the complexities with this name is the fact that it produces a noble logo but
an ignoble team name. Like Kevin Govor states, “It is sort of the ongoing descent of this white
supremacist version of history that the United States had created for itself that found open expression in
the early 20th century.” Schools back in the day would try to change the Native American culture
mocking the religious rituals and hindering them from speaking their language in order to “civilize”
them. Sports team branding designers should change the name and use ethnic references such as the
Atlanta Braves or the Boston Celtics because at least these represent cultures in a non-derogatory
terminology.

17. RESPONSE TO “VISUALIZING GENDER” CHAPTER
http://www.transstudent.org/transvisibility
In their chapter “Communicating Gender,” Maya Ganesh and Gabi Sobliye discuss two primary
visual advocacy approaches: 1) get the idea, and 2) stories in data. Find a new example of either
of the two visual advocacy approaches to gender issues, and post it in this thread. Cite the source.
First, identify the approach. Then explain how the designer uses the approach to communicate a
gender issue. Is the approach effective in this example? Why or why not? How could this graphic
be improved?
This poster showcases how the empowerment of trans people should be made aware for
justice in the LGBT community. The designer gives us statistics and visual graphics of data to supply
the audience with the harassment, violence, and discrimination trans people experience consistently in
their lives and wishes that with more visibility of these conflicts there is more understanding. Like in
the chapter by Maya Ganesh and Gabi Sobliye, “Data visualizations help contain and simplify a story
so it is accessible for a wide range of people.” With large percentages on the demographic, it’s exposes
the reader with strong emotional responses and grabs his/her attention to the matter at hand. The
graphic could be improved by removing the statistic of women being incarcerated by providing more
information on the types of violence trans people struggle with.

18. RESPONSE TO BATHROOM BILL
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/st
oryimage/CG/20150716/NEWS07/150719878/AR
/0/gender-neutral-restroom-
sign.jpg&maxw=708&q=100&cb=201704290057
46&cci_ts=20150716162129
Should people be required to usethe bathroom that corresponds with the biological gender written on
their birth certificate? State why AND state why not. In other words, to receive full credit for this
question, you need to present an argument for both sides of the issue. As a designer, how would you
solve this gender dilemma?
The problem with bathroom bills is that they not only create fear but they also promote
transphobia. Separate bathrooms exist in order to provide comfort and protection towards the individual.
However, the only difference between male and female bathrooms is the fact the the male bathrooms have
urinals. Separate bathrooms have a way of protecting individuals from violence and harassment. At their
convenience, people who identify themselves as transgender should be able to use the bathroom they are
comfortable with because they are the gender they identify with and have every right to use that bathroom.
To solve this gender dilemma, I think implementing gender neutral facilities everywhere would be a huge
progressive step forward in providing contentment with everyone. We need gender neutral bathrooms
because non binary people exist and because we need them for safety. No matter what age or gender we are,
everyone should be treated equally and deserve the privacy to feel safe and happy. People should not fear or
find it weird that gender neutral bathrooms exist because odds are we already have one in our own homes.

19. RESPONSE TO HIDDEN WAYS
AuthorSteven Flusty categorized five types of disciplinary architecture that perpetuate what he
calls urban spatial injustice: 1) stealthy, 2) slippery, 3) crusty, 4) prickly, and 5) jittery. Go out
into the city of Buffalo, and find/photograph two examples from the list of five. Identify what type
of space you’ve photographed and why it might discriminate against a specific population.
Identify the location where you took the photograph, and make certain that you are in at least one
of the two photographs.
This photographwas when my friendand I visited the Buffalo andErie CountyBotanical Garden
one weekend. The gardencontaineda mix of stealthy and prickly environment. There wasn’t muchaccess to
seating areas around but typical parkbenches that are composed of uncomfortable seats designed to be only
accessible for a few minutes to enjoy/rest. The environment had a stealthy space because it was ostensibly public
to visitors but the design of the exterior and interior madeit feel like it was only accessible to those of higher
class citizens who hold a garden thumband thinkhighlyof plants. Theinteriorwas very open with highceilings
and fancy looking. In a way, I feel like the garden discriminates towards a population ofthe middle/lower class
from the architecture at view.
This photo is composed of a slippery and crusty space opento the people. I visited a few of the
parks Buffalo is widely known for and this environment was difficult to access because my friendand I had
barriers of trees and fences blockingthe way of this view. The groundwas quite damp and not so easily seen by
passersby. The park is open to the public but designed to keepcertain areas inaccessible to people walkingabout.
Madelaine Ong

20. RESPONSE TO PEOPLE LIKE US
http://i.vimeocdn.com/video/444924365_1280x720.jpg
After almost two decades of public assistance, Tammy Crabtree took herself and her family off
the welfare rolls. But her job cleaning bathrooms at a local Burger King barely paid the bills.
Crabtree wanted to do better and hopes to go to college and become a teacher.
Imagine this scenario. You are a designer who works at the well-known firm, iPD (Integrated
Planning and Design). You work on a team with planners, urban designers, policy designers,
architects, and social designers. You have been tasked to develop/design a way for Tammy
Crabtree and her family (and others with situations similar to Tammy’s) to move themselves
out of poverty. What will yourteam to do to help Tammy and her family achieve their goals?
What approach will your team take to address this difficult problem?
In Tammy’s heart aching situation, my team would redesign her community to
provide easy access for transportation into the city and her job. As you can see in the video, the
environment around her house seems to have a very vacant area lacking much stores and resources
to get a hold of. With the addition of public transportation, Tammy and her family can have reduced
time to travel to either work or school and at the end of the day be able to spend time with each
other. I would also advise my team for a community clean up. With a clean and healthy
environment, it can set the mood for a thriving motivation to achieve their goals. iPD would design
the community with additions of community organizations provided for anyone to enroll in classes
that would help them out of poverty with social services to support one.

21. RESPONSE TO CARROLL ARTICLE: “(RE)FORMING
REGENT PARK: WHEN POLICY DOES NOT EQUAL
PRACTICE”
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/91/
Regent_Park_001.JPG/1200px-Regent_Park_001.JPG
The development of Regent Park is phased, and there are several more phases to the project.
What actions could be taken to ensure more social integration for the older people living in
the ‘new and improved’ Regent Park?
Acknowledging the fact that there are groups such as the elderly and individuals
with disabilities is the first step to moving forward in social integration for Regent Park. By
including these groups as part of the mainstream signifies a real change in how officials will
perceive them. Like Hazel said, “We were surprised to be asked, it was nice to know that what we
had to say about our own homes mattered to administration.” The inclusion of these groups comes
to a realization that previous planning methods excluding resident input proved unsatisfactory
solutions leading to some failures. The addition of more organized social activities and events can
bring the community together to ensure more social integration for the older people to enjoy and
connect with one another while being active and healthy. The acknowledgement of including both
age and diversity can have progressive steps of having a new and improved park.

22. RESPONSE TO ENRIQUEZ TED TALK: “WHAT WILL
HUMANS LOOK LIKE IN 100 YEARS?”
For this question, we will focus on Juan Enriquez’ Life Two civilization, which alters fundamentalaspects of the body. We are living longer than ever before in
human history. Enriquez argues that, because of advances in bio-medical technology, the possibility of living to 120 years of age and beyond is quite possible
for many of us in this D+D class. Assuming that his assertion is accurate, how do you think extended life spans will change our societies and built
environments? What new issues might designers face because of extended life spans?
The extension of the human living span is not necessarily successful and beneficial. In many cases across the world, the population
as is, is already overcrowded. The environment becomes polluted and congested affected the country’s system as a whole. The advances in bio-
medical technology to alter the way us humans are able to handle all different types of diseases can be beneficial but the integration for us living
an extended amount of years than normal should not be necessary. Humans should be able to grow old in peace and Enriquez’s notion would just
integrate more problems in society. It would change our environment tremendously, it will change the popular cultural norms in society, the
population would even grow more congested than it already is, and there will be scarce/resources land to put more humans in. Designers might
have to face building more spaces in areas we don’t really use like the desert or the arctic to adapt to the rapid changes of trying to evolve the
human body into something it’s not yet capable of yet. Humans are capable of evolving throughout centuries without altering the human body
too extensively to the point where we rely solely on technological advances to keep us living.

23. RESPONSE TO PPT, SMITHSONIAN, AND ROY
http://www.sinotruken.com/student-
desk-chair/chair/beautiful-student-
desk-chair-in-interior-design-for-
home-s711-with-student-desk-chair/
For the Module 12 Thread 1, please select one of the seven universal design principles, and post photographs that
show both a positive and a negative example of the principle. Then address the following question: How do your
examples empower or disempowervarious people? Describe the specific features of the positive example and the
specific features of the negative example. Discuss ways that the positive example could be even further improved.
This image of a student’s desk can be seen throughout all classrooms and clearly
accommodates those of right-handed users. This example addresses Principle Design #2: Flexibility
in Use and #7: Size and Space for Approach andUse. Majority of the desks in universities tend to
be quite small and are appropriate to those of a much smallerfigure. This can be annoyingand
uncomfortable to those of different sizes as they cannot fit in the design suitable for slim bodies.
Desks like the one shown above empower onlyright-handed users and disempowerthose who are
left-handed. A positive of these student desks are the storage component found under that can store
one’s bag or other school supplies. They can be quiteuseful in having a much organized andclutter-
free zone.
Possible ways of altering the design of the student desk would be having adjustable
desktops that are convenient for bothright andleft-handed users and flexible seats that can move
whichever way suited to maintain contact with the professor. This would be beneficial in providing
more comfort to all students and having more focus in class.

24. RESPONSE TO SURVEY, FIXED, AND STELARC
What lessons do you think we should learn from history when thinking about emerging enhancement technologies and reproductive technologies? What are
some of the possible consequences (both positive and negative) of being able to design our bodies and the bodies of our children? What ethical quandaries do
these technologies pose?
As humans we tend to always be fixated on the alteration of appearance from the newspapers/magazines we are exposed to to the social media we all
acquire in our free time. From history, we have appeared to want to try and alter those we deem as ‘abnormal’ or those with a ‘disability’ and pretend to normalize
them. As technology has advanced and has fixated on what we can do to the human body for future generations we start to question whether these experiments are
ethical or not. Being able to design our body comes with both positives and negatives and designing the bodies of our children can be sensitive topic. It’s essential that
we look at different alternatives to try and keep our humans to be healthy and free from disease so our species can live on. However, these enhancement technologies
come with a price and humans that lean toward physical appearances will continuously strive to reach their goal in changing how they appear leading them to debt or
low on money. Altering our future children to suit our wants is like the same concept as why gender roles exist--society has considered what each of us should be
composed of even before we were able to form thoughts and feelings. It’s fair to have alternatives in changing the human race to sustain good health but I don’t think
we should alter on our children just for physical appearance. We gravitate towards the pressure on what we should look like but if we are able to accept those for who
we are then it shouldn’t be frowned upon if someone else doesn’t have the same qualities as you, we are all unique in our own way.

25. REPONSE TO TITICUT FOLLIES
https://theanthropodiaries.files.wordpress.
com/2015/04/titicut_follies_cover1.jpg
Should Wiseman have been allowed to film the residents of Bridgewater Massachusetts Correctional
Facility? Why or why not? How might this film be of value to designers (communication designers,
product, designers, architects, interior designers, planners, landscape designers, systems designers,
and/or social designers)? In other words, what might they gain from this film that they could usein their
work?
Documentaries like Titicut Follies, gives the audience insight on topics that are rarely discussed-
-mental institutions. Watching the documentary gave me access to what it’s really like for mentally ill patients
to experience on a day to day basis. Wiseman’s input on creating this was to inform the general public a unique
viewpoint of the correctional facility. If he had approval from the patient’s parents, I think Wiseman should be
allowed to film the residents. It not only helps designers and architects to visualize how these patients interact
with one another but it also helps with how the patients react to a specific part in the facility. Gaining access to
this, designers and planners can be able to design new comfortable areas accommodating to the patient’s
thoughts and feelings.

26. REPONSE TO PPT, THE ARCHITECTURE OF AUTISM,
PUBLIC SPACE
• The Scenario: Imagine that you and your four children live in Amherst, New York in a $650,000 home at the end of a cul-de-sac on the edge of a ten acre
woods. The town has purchased a one acre lot three houses away from yours, and plans to build a group home for ten intellectually challenged adults.
• As a resident of the neighborhood, would you support or opposethis proposal and why?
• You've learned additional information about the residents of the proposed group home in your neighborhood. In 2013, three of the ten intended residents
exhibited challenging behaviors including screaming, public masturbation, repetitive rocking, and echolalia (elective incontinence). However, these
behaviors have not occurred since then.
• How would this change your opinion about the construction of the group home in your neighborhood?
• The residents in your neighborhood voted (14-3) to reject the town of Amherst’s proposal to build a group home in the neighborhood. Town officials agreed
that the home would not be built in your neighborhood if you and your neighbors could develop a workable alternative.
• What are some possible solutions that would allow the residents of the home to be provided with “the same basic human rights as the rest of the
population”?
It would be a delicate situation to handle for this proposal but I would support this proposal to carry out. It is important now to be aware of the
disabled and accommodate for them to be treated as each individual should, equally. I would hold some concern for children to be exposed to such challenging
behaviors but I would also want to teach them at a young age that they are people just like them with thoughts and feelings too. The group home should be placed in
an open area for the residents to able to enjoy and not feel congested. Having attendants within reach should be essential in assisting them at all times.

27. RESPONSE TO THE CONNECTION BETWEEN RELIGION
AND URBAN PLANNING BY DAVID ENGWICHT
http://www.janstebbinsphotography.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/01/queens_baptism_04.jpg
Identify a place of worship with which you are somewhat familiar. Show a photograph of this
religious structure. What roles has this place served in the development of your city/town?
How has it influenced the design of the area around it? How has its role changed over time?
What roles could this place of worship play in the future development of your city/town?
This photo is of my neighborhood’s local church, Our Lady of Fatima Catholic
Church. Here is where I attended church school and spent most of my Sunday mornings when I was
younger. The church is located by my house which is mostly a suburban area so majority of the
houses are built close together. This welcomes all different types of families to attend mass, during
the early morning session when they have mass in Spanish and during the afternoon session when
they have mass in English. The church has brought a center within the small community and has
always been a friendly and peaceful environment towards the residents. Over time, the church will
continue to bring more of the community in and be kept a holy place.

28. RESPONSE TO PROSPECTS FOR THE FUTURE OF
DIVERISTYAND DESIGN
http://www.howeleryoon.com/admin/show_image.php?i=25_
2093_ChungR_060314.jpg&w=2000&h=1500
Think about yourown major and/orfuture profession. What is the biggest challenge,
problem, or question that your field needs to tackle right now? What do you plan to do to
address this challenge, problem, or question either as part of your studies or professional
life?
Studying to become a future licensed architect comes with manygreat challenges,
questions, and responsibilities that initially start with yourself. For one, as an undergradarchitect major
we often always want to challenge our capabilities and question what else can we add or deduct to make
this good design, a wonderful and solidlycomposed one. We must consider taking in the environment
that surrounds us, factor in the occupant(s), and createan atmosphere of balance with the senses. I’d say
as a whole in the architecture department we’re challengedwith created designs for ourever changing
society and environment. We need to factor in overpopulation in some areas over the worldand a lot of
areas that lack the buildings and resources the community needs in order to survive. In the future,I think
it’s essential to be able to interact with the environment and conjointhe human body andsenses in
designing and building.I want to be able to create an environment that’s beneficial to us as a growing
species and factor in all those who are underrepresented. I plan to use these four years of studyto
challenge myself, gain more knowledge on what I can work on,and create designs that will sway people
into having a startling experience.