Rahel Wollenberger
Reminder
A Mobile Memory Extension
Studiengang Interfacedesign
Mentoren Prof. Reto Wettach, Prof. Dr. Frank Heidmann
Präsentation voraussichtlich im März 2011
Introduction to the topic
Digital devices and applications can act as an interface between people and the environment they move in. Every physical space has a corresponding informational space (Broadbent and Marti, 1997) and through the user’s location in physical space, it is possible to determine which information is relevant for the user and then provide the user with this information. The location of the user is in a sense a way of filtering information, much in the same way a filter is used to narrow down results from a search engine.
According to developmental psychologist Vygotsky »the development and the use of tools extend cognitive processing beyond the biological dimension of the nervous system« (Marti et al, 2001, p. 262). I would like to deal with how digital tools can be used as memory extensions.
This leads to several interesting topics such as people’s trust in machines and the consequences of this. An interesting aspect is for instance the effect on our organic memory. One could image that through the extensive use of machines to store information, our own memory will begin to lack the workout it needs to function properly. But also social implications that come with using digital applications in our daily lives need to be taken into account. A question to ask would be whether the interaction with our environment diminishes our social interaction when we rely on digital devices or applications to provide us with information rather than sourcing information from friends or other people.
Project aim
I would like to develop a device to remind users of oncoming events or tasks, based on factors such as location and time. My approach is for the tool to be highly practical and not substitute or interfere with any social interactions. Instead I see the tool as a way to ›free up space‹ in the user’s brain that can then be used for social interactions or other activities.
I would like to focus on the reminding function itself and explore possibilities of how people can be reminded of events without disturbing possible social or other interactions. The clues that the user receives should be able to communicate the kind of event that they are being reminded of and how important it is. Users should then be able to decide whether or not to discontinue any action they might be engaged in.