Project Kaleidoscope

Project Kaleidoscope aims to prepare designers for the rapidly changing pluriverse. It does so by offering a conversation framework which prompts critical self reflection. The reflection centres around 1; unpacking one's worldview and biases, and 2; to reflect on how these might influence the design process. The framework forms a training ground for designers, to build their critical self reflective muscles.

This project was later shaped into a research paper which you can read here.

Video describing why designers need to prepare for the pluriverse.

Project Kaleidoscope helps designers shed light on their own identity and power positions, and encourages reflection on how they can prepare to navigate more sensitively within different cultural contexts. This dialogue could lead to changes in how designers approach their practice, navigate different social configurations and ultimately contribute in shaping a more inclusive society.

Two designers using Project Kaleidoscope to discuss and reflect.

The framework is shaped in the form of a website which is easy to use and share.

7_ProjectKaleidoscope-Prototype-OdaHeier&ShivaniPrakash.jpg

The landing page of the project.

 

User journey to support reflection

The reflective journey starts by jumping into a fictional design project, and exploring our lens and biases. There are written instructions and intentions ensure that participants know what to expect from the conversation. 

Then participants will go through 3 exercises grounded in concrete design activities. Artefacts that are typical for each stage to make the reflections more practice oriented 

To support reflection, there are different artefacts, for example, cards to externalise different points of view to challenge the participants