ARC 211 Experience

1. Review and Revise
University at Buffalo – State University of New York
ARC 211 - American Diversity and Design - Spring 2017
Online Discussion Questions
Ryan Cortazzo

2. 2
Table of Contents
● Week 1 Thread 1: Introduction……………………....………………………………………………………………….….……4
● Week 1 Thread 2: Response to "What is design?" from Hello World……………………...…………………………….…..…5
● Week 1 Thread 3: Response to "Introduction" from Diversity and Design………………...……………....………….….…….6
● Week 2 Thread 1: FROM: Chapter in Media/Society and TED Talk Photos that Changed the World………….…….…...…..….7
● Week 2 Thread 2: FROM: “Fashioning Protest for the Women’s March on Washington” and “The Worst Design of 2016 Was
Also the Most Effective”..............................................................................................................................................................8
● Week 3 Thread 1: Response to “Industrial Design” by John Heskett and "The Incredible Inventions of Intuitive AI" by Maurice
Conti…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….9
● Week 3 Thread 2: Response IDEA Awards and Cradle-to-Cradle Video………………………………………......……..….10
● Week 4 Thread 1: Response to All Module 4 Materials…………………………………………….………………….……..11
● Week 4 Thread 2: Response to Ballantyne and Zumthor Articles…………………………….…………………………...….12
● Week 5 Thread 1: Response to Levy Article………………………………………...………………………………………..13
● Week 5 Thread 2: Response to Pruitt Igoe Project, Talen, and Larson……………………………………………………….14
● Week 6 Thread 1: Response to F.L. Olmsted………………………………………………..………………………………..15
● Week 6 Thread 2: Response to Walter Hood's Work…………………………………………………....………………..…..16
● Week 7 Thread 1: Response to the Brookes…………………………...……………………………………………………...17
● Week 7 Thread 2: Response to Charles Davis and equityXdesign's Work………………………………………………...…18
● Week 8 Thread 1: Response to "Landscape Stories" Chapter………………………..……………………………………….19
● Week 8 Thread 2: Response to Article on Sports Branding……………………………………………...……………..…….20
● Week 9 Thread 1: Response to "Visualizing Gender" Chapter………………………………………………………………..21

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● Week 9 Thread 2: Response to Bathroom Bill………………………………………………………………………………..22
● Week 10 Thread 1: Response to Hidden Ways……………………………………………………………………………….23
● Week 10 Thread 2: Response to People Like Us……………………………………………………………………………..24
● Week 11 Thread 1: Response to Carroll Article: “(Re)forming Regent Park: When Policy Does Not Equal Practice”…….25
● Week 11 Thread 2: Response to Enriquez TED Talk: “What Will Humans Look Like in 100 Years?”.................................26
● Week 12 Thread 1: Response to PPT, Smithsonian, and Roy…………………………………………………………….….27
● Week 12 Thread 2: Response to Survey, FIXED, and Stelarc…………………………………………………………….....28
● Week 13 Thread 1: Response to Titicut Follies……………………………………………………………………...……….29
● Week 13 Thread 2: Response to PPT, The Architecture of Autism, Public Space…………………………………………..30
● Week 14 Thread 1: Response to The Connection Between Religion and Urban Planning by David Engwicht…………......31
● Week 14 Thread 2: Response to Prospects for the Future of Diversity and Design………………………………………….32
Cover Photo: http://fabulouswinefashion.com/how-to-move-on-from-a-relationshiprelationship-and-dating-advice/

4. 4
Week 1 Thread 1: Introduction
This thread provides you with an opportunity to "meet" each other and initiate a connection with participants in your group. In
responding to this discussion thread, please introduce yourself and provide us with one interesting fact about yourself. After posting
your introduction, take a look through and reply to some of the others. The purpose of this exercise is to develop a sense of
community. You might find that you share similar experiences and can help each other in many ways throughout the semester.
Hi, I am Ryan Cortazzo and I'm a freshman architecture major. I was born on Long Island and I have been living there all my
life. English is my first language but after growing up with my family I've have come to learn how to speak Italian as well. I enjoy
reading and drawing, so basic nerdy stuff. I also love playing soccer as well. This project has taught me to look at the world in a new
way. I learned that there is more than one way that things can be effected in the world. This includes architecture, art, society, politics,
and more. This coarse compels you to thing in a new frame of mind that allows you to see the views of multiple fields of influence.
What I learned here will stick with me throughout my architectural experience.
The following pages document my responses to the online discussion questions in the Spring
2017 version of ARC 211 American Diversity and Design at the University at Buffalo – State University
of New York.
Photographer: My mother

5. 5
Week 1 Thread 2: Response to "What is design?" from Hello World
On “What is design?” from Hello World: Where Design Meets Life by Alice Rawsthron
The author opened her chapter with the example of Ying Zheng, the ruler of the Qin empire, one of the most powerful and enduring
empires in 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 advantage to 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. Those without access had to rely on outdated information,
which put them at a disadvantage.
During the second world war, technology began to flourish, especially technology for home owners such as refrigerators,
ovens, blenders, and toasters. At this time in US history more families were moving into suburban homes, and these innovations in
technology have allowed more families to live comfortably in their new homes. This impacted the society by moving more people into
neighborhoods, allowing people to interact more often with each other.
https://envisioningtheamericandream.files.wordpress.com/2012/05/america
n-dream-home-46-scan_pic00282.jpg
https://img0.etsystatic.com/054/1/9430690/il_fullxfull.751743842_dk16.jpg

6. 6
Week 1 Thread 3: Response to "Introduction" from Diversity and Design
On “Introduction” from Diversity and Design: Understanding Hidden Consequences
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 our visual 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, the Americans 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, those with cognitive disabilities, etc.)
The design of the mass-produced arm grabber extenders allows users to grab objects that are
either too high or too low for the user to reach. This design is highly useful for the disabled because in
some cases, certain users may not physically be able to stand up or stretch out to reach a desired object.
So, this design allows for them to live more comfortably.
https://i5.walmartimages.com/asr/551efb56-64a8-41a9-8738-
fff8d5b91d07_1.59a718b32cf2098e6ad972b1da861414.jpeg?odnHeight=450&odnWidth=450&odnBg
=FFFFFF

7. 7
Week 2 Thread 1: FROM: Chapter in 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?
I would place the images from the TED talk into the media message portion of Croteau and Hoynes' diagram. These images all
make the viewer feel a certain way while viewing the image. Whether it compels the viewer to feel sorrow or fear or joy, the images
are meant to manipulate the viewer's feelings to make them come together for a common support. A very iconic example of this is the
image take after the events of September 11, 2001. The iconic photo of multiple firemen rallying together to re stand the flag of
America. This photo gives Americans pride in the nation and unites people under the common theme of nationalism.
http://www.heraldnet.com/news/911-ground-zero-flag-mystery-is-partially-solved-in-everett/

8. 8
Week 2 Thread 2: FROM: “Fashioning Protest for the Women’s March on Washington” and “The Worst Design of 2016 Was
Also the Most Effective”
NOTE: Use the first three part of the SEE-IT method of critical thinking (State, Elaborate, Exemplify) to address the following
questions:
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?
Both of these hats have symbolic meaning in the world of politics. Even
though each hat stands for something very different they are both targeted to support a
certain political view. The famous red hats are worn to show support for the newly
elect president of the united states. This hat shows that the person wearing the hat
supports the president's thinking. While the pink hats are worn in defiance to oppose
no only the president but the supporters who wear the red hats as well.
http://vesselnews.io/sjw-freaks-student-wearing-hateful-pro-trump-hat-stolen/
http://www.mercurynews.com/2017/01/20/bay-area-womens-marches-where-
when-and-why/

9. 9
Week 3 Thread 1: Response to “Industrial Design” by John Heskett and "The Incredible Inventions of Intuitive AI" by
Maurice Conti
In his chapter on industrial design (written in 1987), historian John Heskett claims that the methods of mass production introduced by
Henry Ford in the U.S. involved new concepts of the standardization and integration of the production line that were adopted across
the world. With Ford’s method, work could be completed by relatively unskilled workers; it was more efficient and with this method,
products were made more quickly and cheaply than previously possible. What were some of the social consequences of Ford’s
production line? In other words, how did this system change our U.S. society? Do any of those changes remain with us today? Now
consider Maurice Conti’s TED Talk, and the predictions he makes about production. How do you think manufacturing processes will
change in the next twenty years? How do you think these changes will affect our U.S. society?
The introduction of Ford's production line lead to a decrease of social interaction within the working community. Ford's
production line forced workers into specific stations which require a great deal of focus and dedication. For example, during the
production of a car there are workers assigned to assembling different parts. Because of the separation of workers, they are ultimately
less likely to socialize with one another within the work space. This idea is starting to decrease in working areas today due to the
automation of the production line. This idea will continue to rise throughout the upcoming years due to the increase in technological
advances. In twenty years, most manufacturing processes will make the transition from human workers to automated assembly bots.
This change will allow people to get out of the concealed
workplace and go socialize more in public.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=plJklnMNjPg

10. 10
Week 3 Thread 2: Response IDEA Awards and Cradle-to-Cradle Video
NOTE: Use the first three part of the SEE-IT method of critical thinking (State, Elaborate, Exemplify) to address the following
questions:
Which of the 2016 IDEA Gold Award products seems to defy the Cradle-to-Cradle concept developed by architect William
McDonough and chemist Dr. Michael Braungart? How does this product resist or disregard the concept? Do you know of any
products that embrace Cradle-to-Cradle design? If so, please describe.
Cradle to Cradle is a very interesting concept that consists of using all material of a product from production to waste and to
reuse what's left over so that the material is used from the products production to its reproduction. One product that I believe defies
this concept is, the 2016 IDEA Gold Award product, the Miracle 360 Cup. It's a sippy cup that's designed for toddlers who tend to
spill their drinks often. The 360-lid design prevents the child from spilling their juice. However, the cup is made with multiple kinds
of plastics, which cannot easily be recycled and will have to get turned into waste when the toddler outgrows sippy cups. A product
that does a great job at following Cradle to Cradle is the TetraPOT. It uses concrete and sea plant roots to help sea plants thrive more
against the force of the crashing waves. This product reuses the decayed roots of plants to remake more plants through the introduction
of the product in the environment. Products like this are meant to use minimal
amount of materials while giving back to the planet through the product's use.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bD_ut_ZJMGA
http://shenghunglee.wixsite.com/design/tetrapot

11. 11
Week 4 Thread 1: Response to All Module 4 Materials
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? (Use the SEE-IT method to respond to
this question.)
From Jeanne Gang's "Buildings that blend nature and cities" we can understand how architecture creates relationships with its
occupants. In Gang's presentation she talks about the Archi-House commission. She aimed to create social relationships within the
architecture to strengthen social justice and cultural exchange. This is done by creating a social space that promotes social gathering.
Gang gathered ideas from past architecture, including the Togu na meeting house in Mali, that seats all its occupants at the same eye
level. The design in this architecture is to promote social aspects through the design of the structure.
From Neri Oxman's "Design at the intersection of technology and biology, we see that the use of materials can change the way
architecture is produced. Oxman focused on creating structures from one continuous material, without the need for assembly. In her
design of a singular material structure she uses silk worms to create a structure without the need of assembly. This design allows for a
more environmentally friendly approach while taking methods used in the past. The use of silkworms dip into the ancient Chinese
methods of production while also furthering our present and future research on dependable and eco-friendly material.
https://africa.si.edu/exhibits/resonance/1lg.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCG0M6T5s
MU

12. 12
Week 4 Thread 2: Response to Ballantyne and Zumthor Articles
Andrew Ballantyne and Peter Zumthor present 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? (Use the SEE-IT
method to respond to this question.)
Ballantyne's and Zumthor's viewpoints on architecture both focus on how the human body reacts to the surrounding
architecture. Each writer explains in their articles that the human experience when admiring a building differs from building to
building. However, they both state that after time the human body starts to experience less of the original feeling upon admiring the
architecture. The initial experience that the architecture gives off can never be repeated. Ballantyne believes that because of this, we
often forget about our experiences with architecture and just blend the sight into our daily routines. While Zumthor believes the
architecture still has an effect on the human body, it just becomes subtler to the occupants over time.
http://poison-dv.deviantart.com/art/Perspective-Architecture-3-8264260

13. 13
Week 5 Thread 1: Response to Levy Article
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?
I grew up in Suffolk County in a town called Commack. This area is very suburban town. Because of this there are large
housing communities there are a lot of people who live very closely together. This was a great way in which I was able to meet new
people and enhance my networking skills. Because of the abundance of suburban families, the need for stores and restaurants are high.
These developments are designed to be very close to one another, so you can do your shopping all in one day. With this town set up
there are very little entertainment places like museums or malls. This leads to me having to travel out of my town in order to partake in
any social activities that aren't shopping related.
https://www.fetpak.com/blog/about-commack-and-fetpak/
http://www.newsday.com/long-island/towns/commack-mall-request-draws-anger-from-neighbors-1.5040837

14. 14
Week 5 Thread 2: Response to Pruitt Igoe Project, Talen, and Larson
Imagine that you are part of an urban planning and design firm working with Emily Talen (author of “Design That Enables Diversity”)
and Kent Larson (who gave the TED Talk "Brilliant Designs to Fit More People In Every City" 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?
Pruitt Igoe was designed to house the lower-class citizens of St. Louis. This idea was poorly executed because the housing
settlement was very clustered and created ghetto like conflicts between the occupants. My plan for redesigning this building would be
to focus on resident quality rather than quantity. The original design focused on packing as many people into the building as possible.
This lead to many sanitation issues along with social issues within the building. With Larsen's plan, we would clean up the traffic
around the building to make the exterior appeal more to residents. The introduction of smart objects would also help the residents live
more comfortably within the building. Lastly, with Talen we would design the architecture to look less dull than the original design.
By creating a facade that appeals to all social classes many more residents will feel comfortable moving into the building. These
redesigns will correct the flaws within the first Pruitt Igoe by creating a welcoming space for all people to feel welcomed in and live
comfortably within.
http://www.pruitt-igoe.com/urban-history/

15. 15
Week 6 Thread 1: Response to F.L. Olmsted
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?
Olmsted's claim about Buffalo was valid at its time. Olmsted created a way for the community to become connected through
the parks within the city of Buffalo. These parks were designed to draw people out of their homes and meet new people in socially
engaging parks around the city. However, the claim that Olmsted makes cannot be valid now because the Buffalo parks have been
disrespected throughout the recent years. Present Buffalo's parks are very run down and very barren. The parks now do not encourage
people to be social anymore. With the redesigns of the city throughout the recent years made it more difficult for people to get out of
their homes and meet up at these parks. Olmsted now would be very disappointed in what his parks have become.
https://www.buffalo.edu/ccr/services/services/visualization/urban-visualization/olmsted-parks.html

16. 16
Week 6 Thread 2: Response to Walter Hood's Work
Identify something that should be memorialized either on UB's campus or in your hometown. 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 use Hood's 'triad of investigations' to design a new landscape
intervention? What do you imagine that the design will be? (Either written or visual descriptions are acceptable).
Hood's way of memorializing projects allows people to connect to the past while still being able to interact with the display in
the present. Using this approach, I would like to memorialize my hometown playground back in Suffolk, Long Island. The way I
would link the playground to the past would be by keeping the same playground equipment on the site. The equipment made now is
very different than the ones produced years ago, creating different memories for the kids who play on them. By keeping the old
designs, I would be allowing other children to experience the memories I experienced in the past. And by allowing children to still
play on it will let people connect to it in the present and continue to make memories on the playground.
http://activerain.com/blogsview/197168/a-day-in-the-park--hoyt-farm--commack--ny-
http://www.lifamilies.com/chat/topic-playdate-at-hoyt-farm-sprinklers-this-week-just-heard-about-new-rules-for-non-residents-62328-
1.html

17. 17
Week 7 Thread 1: Response to the Brookes
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 the Abolition 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 another iconic graphic that addresses racial issues and post it for others in
your group to view. (Add it to your response by clicking on the picture in the tools section. Do not add it as an attachment that needs
to be opened.) 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? (Consider the three
assessment principles mentioned in the article to help you: a technology of vision, an instrument of empathy, and a symbol of control.)
(NOTE: Limit your response to less than 250 words.)
This graphic is a strong representation of segregation in the public. I see that this graphic clearly shows how the colored
community was mistreated. They were segregated from the rest of the society, even on public transportation. They are physically
being separated from the rest of the bus by being blocked by these large boards. I feel that if someone from a colored background were
to look at this graphic they too would feel that this type of behavior is very wrong. This view does not differ from my own because I
too think that this act is very wrong. Regardless of one's skin color of cultural descent, we are all human beings and should be treated
equally. No human has the right to be treated on a higher standard because of the color of
their skin, especially in public.
http://skicenkovice.info/skijnew-jim-crow-laws-bus.adp

18. 18
Week 7 Thread 2: Response to Charles Davis and equityXdesign's Work
Critique either the MLK Memorial or the National Museum of African American History and Culture using equityXdesign’s core
beliefs and/or design principles. (Use the beliefs or principles that are most relevant to your critique rather than all of them.) (NOTE:
Limit your response to less than 250 words.)
Martin Luther King Jr. fought for social equality among skin color. His fight was memorialized in the MLK Memorial to
remind the public what we had to go through in order to get to the form of equality that we have today. This stems from
equityXdesign's idea that in order to understand the problems of the past they must be reinserted into the present. The MLK Memorial
does a good job at this by emphasizing the people of the troubled times of the past and reminding us on how to act in the present.
http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2013/08/mlk-memorial-may-be-unfinished-for-opening/

19. 19
Week 8 Thread 1: 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 your own home? Why or why not?
Now let’s move into your community. In “Landscape Stories,” 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. (If possible, add photo/s.) Is this cultural influence being
acknowledged or preserved from future generations? Why or why not? (Limit your response to 250 words.)
Being part of a large Italian family I value my dining room table in my household. This is because my entire extended family
and I usually eat dinner during special events here. This is a very important part of my family because we all love to eat and talk
together here. This room is a very important part of my family because it brings us all together. However, my landscape around my
home does the same thing. Because I live in a white suburbia I have lived very closely with my neighbors. Just ling my dinning room
table, my neighborhood brings all my neighbors together and allows me to have a closer relationship with all of them.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/01/07/suburbs-carbon-emissions-_n_4556474.html

20. 20
Week 8 Thread 2: Response to Article on Sports Branding
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?
(Limit your response to 150 words.)
I believe that ethnic branding can have negative consequences, but only if used irresponsibly. These brandings are nothing
more than words, and do not have any power until the community give it to them. Because of the society that we live in today, I do not
see ethical branding being possible without any complexities. Ethical brandings should be a compliment to the culture when used.
However, people bring the worse out of them and strip them of all their credibility. Personally, I would like to see more ethical
brandings to give the culture more exposure to others, sadly though our society cannot handle it.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/472385448395345259/

21. 21
Week 9 Thread 1: Response to "Visualizing Gender" Chapter
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? (Limit your response to 200 words.)
This poster shares the unsettling truth about the gender wage gap in our society. Victoria Brown raises awareness of the severe
differences between male and female labor. It emphasizes the differences in wages
as well as the differences in occupations within the job market. Brown takes this
approach by visually showing the data on her poster through graphs and images.
These visuals highlight the gender differences and makes the audience draw their
attention to the struggles of the female worker. I find this approach very effective
because it clearly draws your attention to the female side of the spectrum. The
only improvement I see for this poster is the change the title to "Gender
Inequality".
www.posterfortomorrow.org/en/gallery/view/27856

22. 22
Week 9 Thread 2: Response to Bathroom Bill
Last year, North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory signed into law a bill that repealed local LGBT anti-discrimination laws, and
required people to use the bathroom that corresponded with the biological gender written on their birth certificates. This prompted
massive backlash. McCrory stated, “You know, we all have to make adjustments in life. And we’ve had the proper etiquette situation
for decades in our country, and all of a sudden through political correctness we’re throwing away basic etiquette.” Just this past
Thursday, the North Carolina General Assembly passed a bill to repeal the law while placing a moratorium on nondiscrimination
measures.
Should people be required to use the 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? Use the SEE-IT method to respond to this question.
(Limit your response to less than 250 words.)
Everyone has the right to comfortably use a restroom, regardless of gender. The addition of a
Gender-neutral restroom would allow those who would feel more comfortable in a neutral room
would solve the restroom dilemma. This design choice would introduce this third option to the
restrooms where no person should be judged for using the facilities. Those who do not feel that
gender identification is an issue can simply use their normal gender designated restrooms, while
those who do not feel like they can go to one comfortably can use these neutral ones.
Making people use the restrooms that correspond to their biological gender would be more
traditional in the sense that it would use the etiquette of the past. This choice would cause people to feel uncomfortable in many cases.
Both transgendered and biological gendered individuals would potentially feel uncomfortable in gender specific restrooms.
http://austin.blog.statesman.com/2016/05/25/austin-tells-alamo-drafthouses-tim-league-what-they-think-of-his-gender-neutral-
bathrooms/

23. 23
Week 10 Thread 1: Response to Hidden Ways
Author Steven 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.
Throughout the Buffalo Metro stations there are these signs that point out the
presence of security cameras. The sign states that they are active 24/7 and that all
activity is monitored. This system, even though it is safe, discriminates the homeless
throughout the city. These cameras prevent homeless individuals from taking shelter
within the stations because they will be recorded and then removed from the station.
Photographer: Me
This photo was taken outside a public transportation station in downtown
Buffalo. The bench in the photo consists of armrests, that do support the user in
sitting more comfortably, prevents anyone from laying down on it. As seen in the
photo, it is very uncomfortable to lay down on this bench. This design prevents
homeless, or even anyone for that matter, to relax and peacefully lay down for a
nap. The design is very discriminating against comfort in dire situations.
Photographer: Griffin Perry

24. 24
Week 10 Thread 2: Response to People Like Us
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
your team to do to help Tammy and her family achieve their goals? What approach will your team take to address this difficult
problem?
In order to fix this problem, multiple redesigns of the community must be put into place. First I would allow for a community
college that'd offer night classes that can accommodate for those who have to work throughout the day. These classes would be
offered to individuals at discounted prices for those trying to raise a family, and those
who are currently working jobs with a salary under a certain amount. By doing this,
Tammy would be able to gain an education without be hindered for trying to raise a
family off of a low salary.
https://www.pinterest.com/explore/college-mom/

25. 25
Week 11 Thread 1: Response to Carroll Article: “(Re)forming Regent Park: When Policy Does Not Equal Practice”
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?
In order to promote social integration amongst the differing generations there could be social activities that are hosted by the
faculty of the building. This would promote more interactions within the building rather than keeping residents cooped up within their
apartments. These activities should interest both the young and the old to allow for a mix of the two. Events such as cook-offs, arts
and crafts, guest visitors, standup comedy shows, etc. should interest all members of the building to come and be social. The activities
must not be overly athletic however because the elderly may have difficulty participating.
http://www.rodalesorganiclife.com/home/why-young-people-are-moving-into-senior-homes

26. 26
Week 11 Thread 2: 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 fundamental aspects 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?
I believe that life should not be extended past its natural limits. We all have a specific lifespan that dictates how long we can
live. If we have become infected by a disease or physical disability that technology can help fix to allow us to live out our lifespan to
its fullest then so be it. However, extending our lives just for the sake of doing so
is wrong. We are already having issues worldwide with population. By increasing
lifespans there would have to be more products produced to efficiently maintain all
of us. And because of this there would be more waste created which will further
destroy our environment. Unnecessarily extending our lifespans is a bad idea, if
I'm set to die after 80 years then so be it, the world cannot support all of us paste
our predetermined lifespans.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/350647520957820200/

27. 27
Week 12 Thread 1: Response to PPT, Smithsonian, and Roy
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 disempower
various 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 is an example of the seventh principle of design: size and space for approach or use. I see this closet
design as a dis-empowerment toward the disabled community. Any individual who uses a wheelchair on a daily
basis would be significantly hindered by this design. They would be unable to reach the shelves that are up higher
than their reach, and the top most hanger rack would be out of reach as well. This design is not very inviting for
the disabled community.
http://domainfat.com/d2FsbWFydCBjbG9zZXRtYWlkIG9yZ2FuaXplcg/
This design is significantly more user friendly for the disabled community. There are hanger racks on a
lower level to allow easier access while still keeping the shirts suspended above the bottom of the closet so they
do not wrinkle and dust up on the bottom floor. This design empowers the disabled community to change
comfortably in their homes without feeling restricted in their wheelchair. This design can be improved however
my possibly adding draws that can slide out at a lower level to add more storage at an accessible height.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/211106301253417781/

28. 28
Week 12 Thread 2: Response to Survey, FIXED, and Stelarc
Currently, we have the technology for you to choose many of the survey characteristics in your future child, and this ability to choose
poses some ethical questions. Of course, we all want the best for our own child. However, as we move into a more collective situation,
we need to consider how the consequences of majority choices for children might change who we are as a species.
In the film trailer FIXED, you were introduced to the dilemma of living in a culture in which the “science-fiction of human
enhancement” has become almost a way of life, from prenatal genetic screening to bionic body parts. In the video, “A Man with Three
Ears” you are introduced to an artist who is using current technology to move humans beyond their current abilities. Last week, Juan
Enriquez asked us if it is ethical to evolve the human body. All of these videos suggest that the concept of disability ‘as we know it’
could cease to exist in the future.
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?
Personally, I do not believe that genetically modifying your child is beneficial in any way other than for personal gain. You
should love your child no matter how creative they are or how strong their memory is. Being able to modify these traits before the
child is more takes away the individuality of the human race. Yes, we all want to be the ideal human who is super attractive, athletic,
and creative. The majority of the human race is not like this, which is why the idea is so appealing to us. If we were to start modifying
newborns to be the "perfect" combination of traits and skills then there will be nothing for us to strive for as a species. We are
motivated to work out so we can get in better shape, we are intrigued to learn a new talent
because we want to be more creative, by being handed these qualities from birth however
takes away the hard work from these goals and makes the less special. If modifying the
newborn was to become a regular thing the human race would become very lack luster with
no individualism.
http://cdn.darkhorizons.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/david-
ayer-keen-to-do-a-superman-film.jpg

29. 29
Week 13 Thread 1: Response to Titicut Follies
The state of Massachusetts tried to ban the 1967 documentary Titicut Follies, arguing that director Frederick Wiseman had violated
the patients’ rights by not getting written permission to film them. The case went to court, and Wiseman argued that he had consent
from their legal guardian, the institution. After a judge ruled in favor of the state, the legal appeals carried on for several years: in
1969, Massachusetts allowed the film to be shown to doctors, lawyers, and health care professionals; in 1991, a superior court judge
ruled it could be released for the “general public,” as privacy concerns were no longer at issue, so many years later.
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 use in their work?
Wiseman's goal for filming the residents was not to expose their conditions to the world in a mocking matter, but rather to
show a new perspective of the correctional facility. The film gives insight on how the residents react to the designs around them. By
watching this film, you gain a sense of what it is like for the occupant of your architectural designs. When space is designed, you
create it assuming how the average occupant would react, but with this film you get a clear response on how people directly interact
with the space around them. This gives the designer a new perspective to take into account for future designs.
http://www.zipporah.com/films/22

30. 30
Week 13 Thread 2: Response to PPT, The Architecture of Autism, Public Space
Prelude: Wolf Wolfensberger's seminal work "The Origin and Nature of Our Institutional Models" posited that society
characterizes people with intellectual disabilities as sub-human and burdens of charity, He argued that this dehumanization, and the
segregated institutions that result from it, ignored the potential productive contributions that all people can make to society. He pushed
for a shift in policy and practice that recognized the human needs of those with intellectual challenges and provided the same basic
human rights as for the rest of the population. 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 oppose this 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”?
Naturally I would be concerned about the development of my children if this building
were to be established close to home. If young children were to see the activities of these
challenged adults they may be scared and have their development altered. This is not a
wrong thing to do however, the introduction of the building within a public neighborhood.
Those challenged adults deserve the same rights as other humans, it's just that their behavior
can disturb young children. I say that their building be placed in a neighborhood with a very
low percentage of underdeveloped children. This way they can be involved in a normal
society while not affecting the growth of any non-challenged children.
http://kidswantplay.weebly.com/decline-in-neighborhood-play.html

31. 31
Week 14 Thread 1: Response to The Connection Between Religion and Urban Planning by David Engwicht
In his article, David Engwicht discusses the fact that religions (of all types) have played major roles in the development of our
cities. Today, places of worship are primary components of almost all urban centers. Author Lorne Daniel writes “From their often-
active role in supporting people who live in city centers to their iconic influence on design and use of space, religious structures tell us
a lot about our history, our current needs, and where we might be headed in the future. This is an aspect of our urban future that
planners and urbanists should attend to.”
Identify a place of worship with which you are somewhat familiar. (If you are not familiar with any places of worship, do a bit
of research on one in your own city or town.) Show a photograph of this religious structure. (You may use photographs from the web.)
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 is a photo of my town's church, Christ the King Catholic Church. This is
the church that I have attended for all my life and is located off one of my town's main
roads. Because the church is located in such an accessible location it hosts many
community events. These include fundraisers, holiday events, donation drop-offs, and
community workshop classes. Because the church is such a sacred and respected place,
the area around it is kept open. The buildings down this road are more spread out to
give the church more significance, it stands out more because you can see the full
beauty of the building. The role of the church has not changed over time. It will
continue to bring the community together through the years to come as well.
http://www.mykingspark.info/places-of-worship

32. 32
Week 14 Thread 2: Response to Prospects for the Future of Diversity and Design
Consider the quote in your syllabus from educator Michael J. Shannon: “Design, as vision in action--the intersection of
understanding and creation--is a universal human capability that can play a fundamental role in social evolution, in the process that
transforms resources, energy, and information to make our world.”
At the beginning of this course, we discussed the idea that we are all designers regardless of our profession or field of study.
We’ve asked some big questions along the way, and the conclusion section of our textbook raises additional issues that require input
from people who might not consider themselves to be part of the formalized design professions.
Think about your own major and/or future 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?
My dream is to become a licensed architect. The process of acquiring my license is a
long and challenging one. The idea of design plays a huge role in my profession. Personally,
the biggest challenge that I see myself having through my journey is designing in innovative
ways. As an architecture student, I want my designs to stand out and be recognized for their
design value. As I design I take into account many of the topics that we have discussed in this
class. I take into account the human senses, that way the occupants interact in the space, how
the design shapes the area around it, and how the design connects to the site in which it is built
on. Becoming an architect is a very design oriented journey, my challenge with this is to
design in a way that attracts people to my projects. I want to create designs that will interest
people, to make them feel a certain way. All this comes down to one question, how will I
design?
Photographer: Jacob Wood