Noticing Nature

Given limited prior research experience, my goal for this project was to explore research methods and understand my relationship to them. I learned the value of mixed-methods research: how first-person research is beneficial for developing an intuitive understanding of the design space, and how documentation can extend that understanding into rigorous research. Second-person methods, which foster a more empathetic understanding, complement this well, thereby relating the project more closely to a specific user group. This project did not emphasise third-person research. However, it has made me curious to combine methods more often to obtain a multifaceted understanding of the design space.
Reflecting on the project, I particularly enjoyed the second-person research component. I enjoyed reading several methods to eventually develop a workshop tailored to the particular research question. It is beautiful to me to see how we are all so similar while also so different. This is what truly inspires me. First-person research, on the other hand, does not inspire me as much. However, I believe its qualities are highly valuable to the design process. During my FMP, I used first-person perspective less thoroughly and with a focus on the user. This approach suited me more, but would have benefited from better documentation. Something I should keep in mind.