Research methods

This week I began looking into research methods in order to test another deliverable: The Sofia Workbook. Consulting the book Universal Methods of Design by by Bella Martin and Bruce Hanington has been instrumental in this task. So far, I’ve narrowed it down to three methods:

1. Experience Prototyping
   Experience prototyping facilitates active participation in design through subjective engagement with a prototype system or service, product, or place.

   This method would be useful once completed the book. I could have a group of students or teachers take the book with them for a period of time, and then collect their impressions and opinions. This method would require a prototype to be made.

2. Fly on the wall observation
   Fly-on-the-wall observation allows the researcher to unobtrusively gather information by looking and listening without direct participation or interference with the people or behaviors being observed.

   I could also observe a group of girls using the workbook, or a classroom with a teacher using it during class. This method would be more intrusive, but might allow me to gather more data.

3. Focus Groups
   The dynamic created by a small group of well-chosen people, when guided by a skilled moderator, can provide deep insight into themes, patterns, and trends.

   I have already used this method during the development of this thesis and it has been extremely powerful. I could have a focus groups with the participants of the “fly on the wall” or “experience prototyping” in order to gather their impressions and opinions.

Still many decisions to make and a lot more to research!