American Diversity and Design is a course that shows different perspectives of the design principles and allows one to further understand the design aspects of the environment and our surroundings.

1. University at Buffalo – State University of New York
ARC 211 – American Diversity and Design – Spring 2017
Online Discussion Questions
Skyler Rubin
https://ideas.darden.virginia.edu/2015/09/thinking-by-design-innovation-is-everyones-job/

2. 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, my name is Skyler Rubin and I am a freshman at the university. I come from Poughkeepsie, NY and I am a civil
engineering major. I like to play sports, snowboard, and listen to music.
American Diversity and Design has influenced my view of what I see as design. Through enrolling in this course, I
developed a lens of different perspectives from not only myself, but also my fellow classmates. I started to see more design
aspects in my life like how it affects the environment and our surroundings. In ways of posting our comments on the
discussion board, I was able to discuss various topics of diversity and design. On the discussion board, I could see others’
opinions and able to give them feedback as well. I found this very interesting because it allowed me to further understand
the design aspects in each weekly module and helped me to analyze these design principles in the real world.
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.
Taken by my iPhone

3. 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 I 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 out-dated information, which put them at a disadvantage.
The innovation of 3-D printing has improved medical advancements through the printing of organs and tissues.
This technology has helped repair or replace these essential features and promoted people's health and wellness. Even
though the costs of these applications are very expensive, it has lasting, prosperous effects for patients in need. No groups
are negatively affected by this innovation other than people who cannot afford the service.
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2470038,00.asp

4. Thread 3: Response to “Introduction” of Diversity and Design
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 invention of the wheelchair helps people with disabilities like paralysis, lost limbs, and others move around
with ease for a better standard of living. This ease of transportation provides them with the enjoyments of life. These
circumstances have improved over the years with electronic chairs that allow the people to not have to push the wheels or
have someone do it. Also, cars now have applications that let a handicapped person drive with a remote gas pedal and a
ramp to get into the vehicle.
http://www.spinlife.com/category.cfm?categoryID=2

5. 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 think that the images shown in Photos That Changed the World should be placed in the “readers or audience”
section of the Croteau and Hoynes’ diagram. The images depict the message, in my eyes, is to get people’s attention. The
Vietnam picture tries to gain sympathy and a sense of pride for Americans. The picture of the twin towers coming down
shows tragedy but it reminds us about unity and nationalism. A mass media photograph that can I can relate to is the 9/11
one. However, I was only 4 or 5 years old at the time, the event still had an impact on my life. The fear and devastation
that the event had on the people of New York and the rest of country. My parents work at the VA Hospital in Montrose, NY
and I still hear stories of the experiences they shared in fear for their lives during the attacks. The image communicates
this fear and feeling of uncertainty but it reminds us of the unity and togetherness it brought afterwards.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/september-11-attacks/

6. Thread 2: Response to Articles on Hats as Communication Design
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?
The two hats portray a message as a vehicle of communication. The “Make America Great Again” and the
“Pussyhat” hats act as a design to communicate with the audience without words. The text and color schemes are
important in displaying the messages each portray. The “Make America Great Again” was Donald Trump’s campaign
slogan through the candidacy. A meaning of America’s simpler times reflecting back to the Reagan administration with his
“Make America Great.” The “Pussyhat” is a women’s hat worn at the Women’s March to signify a comment Trump made
about women years prior. This hat represents women’s rights and the opposition of President Trump. The simplicity in
both designs with such a powerful message just goes to show that these are great examples of vehicle of communication.
The two are, however, comparatively different in that they have two unique messages behind them.
https://www.trumpfanapparel.com/products/classic-make-america-great-again-hat

7. Thread 1: Response to “Industrial Design” by John Heskett and "The Incredible Inventions of Intuitive
AI" by Maurice Conti
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?
Henry Ford's company revolutionized the automobile industry with his application of the production line. With this
implementation, cars were produced quicker and cheaper than before and more affordable for middle class people to
purchase. Cars were become a necessity and with more cars being developed and made meant more consumers could use
and enjoy the product. This changed society because all car companies use some type of automated robotic machines that
assemble most of the cars. Automation is causing for unemployment because there is less need for jobs of people that the
machines can do.
Manufacturing processes are bound to change in the next twenty years for sure. If you look back twenty years from
now you will see the vast improvement that the automobile industry has made and will continue to make. Cars are made
cheaper and faster now than twenty years ago and there is no doubt that in 2037 there will be even more advancements.
Soon, cars will be developed completely by machines and this will cut off the jobs of those in the production line. The only
room for a human factor goes into the design of the cars and the specific features that go into them. Eventually, more
developments will be made with electric powered cars or possibly solar powered cars. As an engineering student, I am
fascinated by renewable energy and if solar energy could be implemented into the repulsion of automobiles, it'd be
astounding.
https://www.thoughtco.com/henry-ford-and-the-assembly-line-1779201

8. 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? Provide an
example of any product that embraces Cradle-to-Cradle design. Please describe and site sources.
The 2016 IDEA Gold Award winning product, Rolls Royce Dawn defies the Cradle to Cradle concept with high cost
nonrenewable materials. This car is made with grade A bullhide interior which is completely nonrenewable. The Rolls
Royce Dawn is run on premium gas producing more carbon dioxide emissions than regular gasoline. The car is also
extremely overpriced making it unavailable to most consumers defying the Concept.
A product that embraces the Cradle to Cradle concept is the HUBB Lifetime Oil Filter. A lifetime reusable filter, the
filter collects 5 times more contaminants and diminishes oil flow back pressure to increase fuel efficiency and decrease
carbon emissions. Every 10,000 miles the filter is removed, taken apart, and bathed in biodegradable soap. Then it is
ready to be used in the car again. This supports the Cradle to Cradle concept because of its reusable abilities and no harm
to the environment.
http://www.caranddriver.com/rolls-royce/dawn

9. Thread 1: Response to All Module 4 Materials
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.)
An example of a building with sensibilities about the past is the Virginia State Capitol building. Its design was done
by Thomas Jefferson with French architect Charles-Louis Clerisseau. The design was modeled after Maison Carree of a
Roman temple. At a time during the traditional "Georgian" style architecture, the Virginia State Capitol building models
for independence from English rule with its original designs. This resulted in a turning point in the American Revolution
era architecture with new styles of American design. A building with sensibilities of the present and future is the Southdale
Center located in Edina, Minnesota. The center was designed by Victor Gruen, an Austrian immigrant who wanted to
design a building of a communal area to join people together. He wanted to lure people into stores using arcades in highly
populated European cities. The center brought art, culture, and entertainment under one roof. This design of a shopping
mall was then started and innovated to what they are today. It represents a progressive reform supporting local small
businesses of which has shaped America today and will continue to. The Market Arcade located in Buffalo is a prime
example of a successful shopping mall that has survived since it opened in 1892, built by E.B. Green & W.S. Wicks. The
design of the mall was modeled after London's Burlington Arcade. The Market Arcade brought a lot of attention to people
for the vast amount of stores in one general area. This made shopping and entertainment easily accessible for the first
time. The Market Arcade is one of many examples of an outlet for people to go to just like the Southdale Center. The
Arcade was recently renovated for $10 million in 1995.
https://www.bluffton.edu/homepages/facstaff/sullivanm/virginia/richmond/capitol/capitol.html

10. 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 and Zumthor describe architecture in a way that is seemingly lifelike. The buildings are involved in our
daily lives in the background. It allows us to value the things in our life viewed pragmatically. The building surrounds us
with history and culture. Ballantyne believes there is a relationship between our surroundings and humans. He stresses
the importance habits play in culture and how it is reflected in the design of architecture. Zumthor argues that buildings
reflect culture and history, but disappear because of the presence of humans. With less attention paid to these buildings,
the more they fade. The background becomes less apparent with more influence of culture and history.
https://www.dezeen.com/2016/06/10/peter-zumthor-architecture-wooden-buildings-on-stilts-tourist-trail-norway-
allamannajuvet-mine/

11. 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 a small town named Pleasant Valley, NY. A house only a few minutes from me dates back all the way
back to the American Revolution. This plot of land covered the whole town and had connections to the Underground
Railroad. The residents housed African Americans in their pursuit to Canada and other locations in the North. This legacy
is still celebrated and recognized today for the rich history. This truly represents the character that the town has portrayed
for centuries as it as modernized into a prosperous area today. Residing in the Hudson River Valley, the town was in part
of a lot of action that was held with manufacturing and trading goods with other settlers and traders. Pleasant Valley
located next to Poughkeepsie was a major manufacturing center with effective usability with the Hudson River. The
picture below shows the revolutionary house that still stands today.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newcomb%E2%80%93Brown_Estate

12. Thread 2: Response to Pruitt Igoe Project, Talen, and Larson
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?
Emily Talen speaks about the rebuilding of Pruitt Igoe. She discusses the importance of “place vitality, economic
health, social equity, and sustainability” of certain locations. Talen is highly opposed to segregation that was present in the
Pruitt Igoe. Black and white settlers were separated and the separation of residents would not be tolerated by Talen. She
would demand for equal living arrangements for all residents.
Kent Larson discusses the urban success of a collection of towns. The urban features of the city are arranged with
the most important locations together like hospitals, public safety operations, and places of worship, etc. One of the
reasons why Pruitt Igoe failed was because of the skip-stop elevators. These elevators were made it harder for individuals
to get where they needed to go. The elevators lead to staircases and decreased the overall functionality and purpose of the
elevators. Larson would replace these elevators with useful means of transportation for those who required or wished to
use them.The project would run strictly on an ample, low budget system in order to be successful. The idea of raising
diversity in this area will stimulate job growth and wellness of individuals and their families.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pruitt%E2%80%93Igoe

13. 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?
Frederick Law Olmstead designed a system of parks and parkways in Buffalo, a work that no one in the nation had
ever seen before. His work consisted of six major parks with connections to parkways and circles. A map of all the features
was developed illustrating all the major locations of these. The plans were sent to Philadelphia for the Centennial
Exposition and later to Paris in 1878. He described Buffalo as "the best planned city..." These parks are what make up the
green infrastructure of the city. From this, the many institutions and establishments of Buffalo were built arounf these
landscapes. I believe his claim still holds true today because the historic landscapes are well tended to and shows the
character and quality of life in the city of Buffalo.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frederick_Law_Olmsted

14. 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).
In my hometown of Pleasant Valley, NY, there is an old mill factory that burned down in 1815 due to what was to
believed to be an electrical fire. After the fire, there was only a section of the building that remained. John De La Vergne
and Luther Thwing bought the mill at auction and decided to rebuild it. After many renovations and improvements made
to the building, Thomas Garner & Co. operated the mill for 53 years followed by more companies until 1995 when it was
converted into a town park.I believe the mill site should be dedicated to memorialize its original renovators, John De La
Vergne and Luther Thwing. The work done to revamp the structure allowed it to stay in operation until 1995. Hood's "triad
of investigations", specifically commemoration, pertains to this design landscape. The plans of this commemoration starts
transforming the park into a museum for those in the community to gain more knowledge about the history of the
institution. A museum would reflect the history of the mill's production could show how the community benefited from
this establishment.I imagine the design of the museum to be very informative to show the history of the site. In place of
where the park is, information about each site could be posted to show where the original building was and its operation.
A nice garden or trees could be planted to spruce up the aesthetics of the area. A new sign can be made to memorialize the
two rebuilders. More additions of staff to give tours to help visitors get a better sense of the history and functionality that
the mill held. All of these features will help the design of this commemoration of the site.
http://pleasantvalley-ny.gov/community/parks/mill-site-memorial-park/

15. Thread 1: Response to the Brookes
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.)
Segregation is defined as the separation of races in public places. Segregation was enforced after the Supreme Court
case, Plessy v. Ferguson, claiming "separate but equal" that meant that segregation was constitutional. The division of
races took place in public areas and modes of transportation. Colored people were not allowed to ride in the front of the
bus. Whites reserved the rights to these privileges. The graphic shown below clearly depicts a situation of segregation on a
public bus. I interpret this as a violation of the rights of an individual regardless of their color. I do not tolerate this and if I
was there during that time period in the early 1900s, I would give up my seat for one of these individuals. I have always
been aggravated and astonished that this ever occurred. I am very empathetic of colored people who endured these
struggles during this period.In the eyes of someone directly offended by this, being African-American, they would be much
more angered and intolerant of this situation. A reaction very similar to mine, but greater in magnitude which is the main
difference in the interpretations. The magnitude. I believe that in today's day and age we look towards icons like Rosa
Parks to give us strength and inspiration to expand passed the immorality and hatred. Segregation was put to a stop
during the Supreme Court case, Brown v. Board of Education, overturning the Plessy decision.
http://supremecrtcases.weebly.com/plessy-v-ferguson.html

16. 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.)
The Martin Luther King Jr Memorial depicts the racial and ethnic context of American society. The image of his
facial expression shows the exact design that the builder of the statue intended for. The location of the monument is
especially crucial to the design and message of the work. The MLK Memorial is on an imaginary axis between the Lincoln
and Jefferson, two activists for equal civil rights in their relative time period. Dr King stood on the steps of the Lincoln
Memorial during his "I Have A Dream" speech while referencing the Declaration of Independence inscribed by Jefferson.
The promise that all men are created equal is the message that these three great men brought to push for equal and full
rights. These morals go alongside equityXdesign's "moral imperatice to live in the future we desire to create."
Criticism comes to attention in regards to equityXdesign as "we must start with individuals, but we cannot stop
there." MLK is acknowledged as a civil rights leader and his movement for equality. The message that equityXdesign
brings is that it is understood that individuals play a role in institutions. It's saying that MLK is apart of racial equality as a
whole, and that this institution of racial equality is bigger than him. As if the idea of the whole idea is more important than
him and a memorial for the civil rights movement is better fitting.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther_King_Jr._Memorial

17. Thread 1: Response to "Landscape Stories" Chapter
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?
I come from a large Norwegian ethnicity. My mom's side of the family is 100% Norwegian and all of the ancestors
either still live in Norway or have moved to America. A big part of being Norwegian is the emphasis of family and tradition
values. An object that reflects that tradition in my house is the table prayer shown below. Written around the Norwegian
text is the translation in English. This is a great representation of my ethnic background because the family dinner prayer
is done before each meal and is very important as it symbolizes unity and strength. The prayer is something that I will
have in my home when I am older and will recite before family meals. I want to continue the tradition so I'll definitely still
have it.In my community, there were a decent amount of cultural influence that were evidently changed the environment.
The large businesses in the center of my town with a surplus of jobs forces for a larger residential area necessary. The
farms and orchards in the area have been bought out and replaced with housing developments. This is the major cultural
change being that the town was known for its agriculture and distribution of crops to the region to be diminished to
nothing. The only underrepresented groups that are affected are the farmers. Evidently, there is no preservation of these
lands and with more time there will only be more of these lands taken away by residencies.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/276830708325055863/

18. 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 sports teams should be allowed to use ethnic backgrounds to an extent. It gives historical significance
to the city in which the team plays. These cities hold the settlers who immigrated to the United States and removing this
ethnic background would affect the people. The people would lose a sense of connection with the team that have grown up
supporting. The issue has complexities when it comes to the Washington Redskins being racist and discriminating toward
the Native American population. The New York Yankees and Houston Texans are also targeted here for the similar
reasons. It is not like the players of the team reflect these people, it is merely about the city and historical background that
decides these references. There is no separation of ethnicities on teams so the players aren't affected by this. It is the
members of these ethnic groups who suffer.
http://www.redskins.com/

19. 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.)
The image above represents a balance between gender issues. The approach of the image is to explain and convey the
message. The message shown by the seesaw is in equilbrium with the two sexes. The gender differences are seized and in
alignment with each other. It is clearly expressed that the use of the seesaw reveals the message here. Learning to adapt
and accept differences will balance and strengthen the equality. The designer is very effective to his approach of this issue.
The representation of gender equality in ways of simple balance can aid and improve the problem. Two objects have to be
placed on the scale with equal weight to balance which correlates to the weight of the genders. The male weight can not be
any more than the weight holding down the female sex. In order to communicate to solve the issue, this weight has to be
the same to produce a solution. The graphic can be improved upon by listing ways to begin to resolve the problem. A
catalyst can fortify the gender indifferences by giving individuals the means in which to do so, meaning a few ideas to take
on.
http://themiddleground.sg/2015/12/29/unequal-rankings-singapores-gender-equality/

20. Thread 2: Response to Bathroom Bill
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.)
(Other students in your group can comment on which of your two arguments is the most convincing and why.)
The transgender community is forced to decide a certain bathroom to use. The issue is whether of not individuals
should have to use the bathroom which matches their birth sex. I think that these transgender individuals should be
allowed to use whichever restroom they please, with no fear. Obviously, the tension in the scenario is very high with
cisgender individuals are discriminating towards the issue. Thus, people should have the freedom to choose whichever
facility while facing opposing opinions. The other side of the issue presented is the thoughts of cisgender people
encountering transgenders in the restroom and being uncomfortable. The privacy by the two conflicting sexes will be lost.
People will be scared to use their biological's sex bathroom in fear of a uncomfortable situation. I don't know how I'd feel if
I confronted a transgender in a boy's bathroom for the first time. On the other hand, people can learn to conform and
behave naturally in situations to better the transgender community. Attacking the issue head-on can solve the gender
dilemma to coincide the two communities to become one. This means that people have to accept the circumstances to
resolve the issue.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/566749934336610158/

21. 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. List the location of where you took the photograph, and make certain that you are in at least
one of the two pictures.
This picture was taken at Canalside in downtown Buffalo. This area is very popular and crowded, but it is a good
example of a slippery space. The spot is a place that is not seen by many passers-bys and is open to the public 24/7. Seen
behind my group of friends and I is the giant floating duck. This is supposedly the biggest duck in the world. Canalside is
very known for this attraction, bringing in many people. The whole boardwalk attracts many vendors and buyers creating
nice gathering and meeting ground for the area. However, it discriminates against the people who used to come to
Canalside before the new culture was brought in. People who went to hang around peacefully at the port are now
surrounded by a mass amount of tourists and vendors.
This is an example of jittery. This picture was taken at the KeyBank Center. The stadium has video surveillance as a
way to protect all attendors from an incident or attack to take place. Certainly, the cameras are placed throughout to
ensure safety. The environment discriminates against people who do not have admission, meaning they did not pay to
enter.
Taken by my iPhone

22. 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?
I would suggest the best way for Tammy and her family to get out of poverty is to all become employed. Her kids do
not contribute much as she is stuck taking care of the family off of a minimum wage job. If all the kids helped around, it
would speed the process. Her kids wanted to go to college and get an education so if they worked and went to school, this
would benefit them all. Obtaining a community college degree would greatly increase their likelihood of recovering from
their financial troubles. This would allow Tammy the opportunity to pursue her dream of becoming a teacher. To escape
their poverty, the combination of working and going to school will help them in the long run.
http://www.greenwichedgroup.com/

23. 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?
The housing development of Regent Park is being revitalized to ensure more social integration between the
residents. The plan is for mixed income individuals to come together to decrease the amount of diversity in the
community. The cultural revival is made possible with the relocation of residents who were moved due to construction.
These people are those in part of the new community. Efforts like these are an example of social integration and how a
new culture can be brought to an existing area.
Reactions and responses were made after the relocation of residents. Interviews were conducted and asked about
the issues of the change. Some included better communication between them and the tenants and safety ensured during
the construction periods. Following the relocation as a result of the new culture, fatal shootings occurred and skepticism
was raised. People were unsure of the effectiveness of the relocation. Surveillance cameras were installed afterwards.
The relocation allows for the elderly to interact with each other and younger residents to connect the entire
community. This revitalization plan integrates the older people with the community to provide for a more comfortable and
quality stay in the environment.
https://www.thestar.com/opinion/commentary/2014/05/05/how_revitalization_is_leading_to_displacement_in_regen
t_park.html

24. 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?
The idea of extended life spans is a hypothetical situation. The possibility for living 120 years is certainly out of the
realm of reality. The advancements in medicine and public safety have definitely increased in the last decade resulting in a
high life expectancy rate. However, the reality is that living 120 years is highly improbable with the present fears of cancer
and accidents that happen. If it were to exist that 120 years old is the standard for a life span then the economy will
continue to decrease. The longer a person lives the more money is spent. If you think about it, it costs a lot to live and pay
for various necessities.The change in society and the environment will increase in population will cause for more land
usage. More land will be used for residents and businesses alike. People will be employed longer raising the retirement
standard. More jobs will be produced while more people will be employed. GDP will go up while so does the economy.
Some issues that can arise due to this extended lifespan are the need for more deforestation and urbanization to occur.
More occupancy in the world demands for these factors. It will cost the world a lot more money to live for that.
https://www.quora.com/How-strong-and-healthy-can-a-100-year-old-person-be

25. 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.
https://kaboom.org/resources/build_playground_toolkit/accessibility/universal_design/seven_principles_universal_de
sign
Both examples below depict an example of “equitable use.” Equitable use is a universal design principle that allows for
people with a diverse range of disabilities to be accommodated properly. A positive example of this is shown on the left
where automatic motion-sensored doors are placed in front of a store or highly used facility. On the other hand, a negative
example of this is on the right, showing a parking lot with no handicapped parking spaces. This restricts the ability for an
individual with a disability to get easily go to where they need to be. The decrease in accessibility hinders the individual
and fails to provide them.
http://www.flagstaffsnowremoval.com/parking_lot_striping
http://www.automaticdoorcompanymiamifl.com/Automatic-Doors-.html

26. Thread 2: Response to Survey, FIXED, and Stelarc
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?
The emerging enchancement and reproductive technologies help people to make up generation of superior humans.
Hitler had this fixation on the dominant Aryan race that would take over the world. We have learned by now that this is
impossible, that making a superior race by mass genocide is illegal, immoral and not possible.Positive effects that a way of
natural selection through technology include the elimination of prosthetics and a cure for cancer. Limbs would not be lost
if they were able to be engineered to accommodate people. If an arm or a leg could be produced to look and act like a real
one, it would change technology forever. Also, for the same application, people with cancerous cells can be injected with or
given technology that automatically finds and kills the cancer cells. This would increase the lifespan of people and promote
a higher quality of life.Negative attributes that follow from these kinds of technological advancements are immorality and
an increase in spending. The new technology that enables humans to use artificial limbs is immoral to most people. Using
technology instead of a prosthetic limb would not be approved by the public. It would also cost the government an
excessive amount of money to fund these projects. The loss of ethical quandaries then begins as the mass population of
people don’t think it’s moral and is too much money to invest in. The majority of people will not approve of these
enhancement and reproductive technologies.
http://www.deviantart.com/tag/robotarm

27. Thread 1: Response to Titicut Follies
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?
I certainly believe Wiseman should have been allowed to film the mentally ill residents of Bridgewater
Massachusetts Correctional Facility. Doctors did not perform proper treatmeant and correctional officers were abusing
inmates. For example, it is shown in the film that COs were force feeding inmates and repeatedly asking them questions
when they clearly could not answer because of their mental condition. Obviously, it was not okay for Wiseman to record
this incidents under no permission in the facility, but it showed the outside world what was going on behind closed doors.
These immoral acts were revealed of mistreatment of the mental ill, proper attention and management of the inmates
were taken place.
The film speaks to the ears of designers such as commmunication designers, product designers, etc because of the
lack of proper treatment. If the necessary attention was given to the mentally ill who needed the oversight and guidance
were given, they would not have cases of inmate deaths and maltreatment. The problems that were not taken care of
would have been prevented. The documentary shows a case where a patient was being seen by a doctor who was smoking
cigarettes, and the ashes of the cigarette landed in the cup the patient received to drink. Later in the film, the same patient
was seen deceased from unknown reasons. My point again is that if the designers were shown these harsh mistreatments
earlier, some of these incidents could have been stopped.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Titicut_Follies

28. Thread 2: Response to PPT, The Architecture of Autism, Public Space
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?
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”?
As a resident of the neighborhood, I would support the proposal of housing the intellectually challenged individuals
there. They need a place to reside so I see no issue in that. I would not mind them living near me, they are no different
than I am they deserve a comfortable environment to live. It doesn’t change my opinion, if they majority of the residents on
the street do not want the group home built than it would be fine by me. It is a decision to be made by everyone, not just
one individual. However, I feel like I would encourage them to build it because they deserve the property just as much as
the next person. Just because they have a disability should not inhibit where they live and who should say where they live.
Their rights are not be expressed, the residents are not allowing them to live there when they have the freedom to do so.
Solutions to this issue include have a meeting with all of the residents on why they won’t oblige to this proposal. Also, see
if there are ways to allow them to stay there if there are provisions like a fence up or a security system to notify when
someone lives.
http://www.culdesac.org/

29. 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?
Shown in the picture below is the St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City, NY. This Catholic Church is located on
5th Ave and between 50th and 51st street. The roles it plays for the city include a sense of community as it is a meeting
ground for individuals who share the religion. A place of open arms and welcoming people who support and help
strengthen those who are in need. The church helps people who are in trouble and need repentance. These roles have
influenced the design of the city by forming a holy ground for visitors to come and feel the power that the church
possesses. To hallow the area means that the design has been influenced by its ability to help people. The Saint Patrick’s
Cathedral can only continue to prosper and aid people in their journey through life providing guidance and life itself.
http://www.keywordsuggests.com/HTasZdJ%7C1AKRuvXpQ2BbTB1BfWcf*e%7CprIFK2HOUsfiXCo1DP8p1GDr*GzUtb2
XZad**lm*eJNyys3LjNOyD9A/

30. 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?
I am currently a civil engineering major and would like to pursue a career in the renewable energy industry. For me,
there is nothing as cool in the world as solar and wind energy. The ability for these technologies to produce electricity from
such easy sources of energy is remarkable. Being a prospective civil engineer, I would be able to handle the design of these
structures to see if they withstand in various conditions like weather, aircrafts and other projectiles, systems failure, etc. The
challenges that I assume are being faced at this time is the economics behind it. Yes the projects are very costly with a high
return, but companies and individuals do not want to purchase these systems because of the installation costs. The major
problems behind these new technologies are no demand for the projects being built. How desirable the energy is when it is in
use is astounding, however, it is disadvantageous not to use as many systems as possible. This leaves engineers and
contractors out of work and that is a real problem for me. I plan to address this challenge by hopefully choosing to live in an
area where the demand for the construction of wind and solar is being utilized. If that means I have to travel around, so be it.
This is my career goal to work on these types of projects so obviously if it comes down to it I’ll have to do a lot of travelling in
my professional life.
http://www.zmescience.com/science/facts-about-solar-energy/ http://en.openei.org/wiki/Wind_energy