Here is a potential response integrating the perspectives from the assigned materials: If our firm was tasked with redeveloping Pruitt Igoe, we would draw on the lessons learned from its failure as well as the ideas promoted by Emily Talen and Kent Larson. Based on Talen's research emphasizing the importance of diversity, inclusion and community engagement, we would conduct extensive outreach with current and prospective residents to understand their needs, preferences and concerns. This would ensure the new development fosters a true sense of community rather than becoming an isolated "project." Larson's ideas about flexible, multi-use spaces could help address the issues of socioeconomic segregation that plagued Pruitt Igoe

1. University at Buffalo – State University of New York
ARC 211 - American Diversity and Design – Spring 2017
Online Discussion Questions
Vaughn Shorter

2. As I went through this course I learned a lot and have been affected by it in many ways. I think design and diversity has had a
significant influence on me. I now look at the world in a different perspective. When I see certain
types of architecture I now look and start to think about the affects the structure has on the people and
different diversity groups. I also start to think about the way different buildings are made and how
each piece changes the aesthetic of it and its surroundings. The course also taught many things I
wouldn’t have learned otherwise. It taught me how much influence our pollution has the area around
us. When we went to go clean up the river it really showed us how bad we can ruin a place it takes a
special person to create change. One person can make a difference and when you get a group of
people they can make difference faster. The thing that compelled me most this course is the clothing
design module. I never noticed that a piece of clothing can have so much meaning. A simple hat gives so many people many
stereotypical thoughts about the person wearing it. I noticed this when I saw a person wear one of the Trump hats and a girl next to me
made fun of him just because of the hat he was wearing. I was shocked because we do this every day without realizing it. This course
has shown me so many ways to look at things around me and it has changed me as a person.
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.

3. 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.
One invention that had many impacts, advantages and disadvantages was the gun. This invention gave an advantage the settlers that
came to North America. People were able to hunt for their food a lot easier and they also changed the way wars were fought. The
problem with guns coming to North America is that the Native Americans didn't own guns and were ran out by the early settlers. Their
weapons were no match compared to bullets. They were just pushed back and back and attempting to buy and use the guns from fallen
soldiers but it still wasn't enough.
http://www.militaryheritage.com/musket17.htm

4. 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.)
A design that impacted a diversity group is the braille books and letters. Braille is particularly useful for those who can’t see and are
blind. Braille is named after Louis Braille. He was a French man who lost his ability to see after he endured a childhood accident. At
age 15 he designed braille in 1824. This design changed the lives of many people born after him. It has been revised and expanded so
it is easier for people to read it. At first it was almost code like and wasn’t meant for text of books but after many changes it got to a
form that was easier to understand. When this occurred it started to spread and become a normality among blind people.
https://www.pharmabraille.com/pharmaceutical-braille/the-braille-alphabet/
"Braille." Wikipedia. April 30, 2017. Accessed May 02, 2017. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Braille.

5. Response to Media/Society Chapter and TED Talk on Photographs
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?
The pictures shown in the TED Talk could be placed in the diagram entitled "Model of media and the Social World". They could be
put in the media message or product part of the diagram. Readers interpret the media products which are influenced by the media
industry. A mass media photograph that has been served as an icon is the Obama hope poster. It served as a visual representation of
what Obama wanted to bring to America. It is an iconic picture because he was also our first black president. This poster was seen
everywhere and associated hope with Obama making people more inclined to vote for him. He used advertisement as a way to spread
the idea quickly and efficiently to the public.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barack_Obama_%22Hope%22_poster

6. 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 are elements of mass media or social media and have brought together of divided people. These hats 2 different
meanings and 2 different messages to the people. They are vehicles of communication because they have a meaning behind
them. If someone is wearing these hats, there is a message that they are sending off to other people. The pink hat is almost a
protest to the comments and actions President Trump has said. It shows that you are a supporter of all women’s rights. The red
hat shows that you support President Trump and his plan of action. As a form of communication they both send strong
messages that almost everyone knows but the difference is they both mean completely different things and people get treated
different ways in either hat.
http://vesselnews.io/sjw-freaks-student-wearing-hateful-pro-trump-hat-stolen/
Budds, Diana. "The Worst Design Of 2016 Was Also The Most Effective." Co.Design. January
03, 2017. Accessed May 02, 2017. https://www.fastcodesign.com/3066599/the-worst-design-of-
2016-was-also-the-most-effective.

7. 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?
Henry Ford introduced the idea of mass production in America when the Model T cars were being produced. His way of thinking
changed the way things would be done in America forever. Mass production is so important because with it producing things on a
larger scale became alot easier. This system brought change the American society. We now needed mechanical engineers to design the
machines that were mass producing the products. Products also moved
away from being specialized to standardization. I think over the next
twenty years manufacturing processes will move towards a more AI like
approach. An example of this is the aerial drone demonstration Maurice
Conti had spoken about. I think these changes will inevitably increase
the efficiency and decrease the amount of waste of our everyday
products.
http://myautoworld.com/ford/history/ford-t/ford-t-2/ford-t-3/ford-t-
3.html

8. 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 cite your source.
The cradle to cradle concept was developed by William McDonough and Dr. Micheal Braungart. This concept involves the use a
design and diversity. People have used too many resources and we will eventually use them up one day. This way of thinking
involves a different design approach. The whole point is to use and then reuse so that nothing is wasted. It is like recycling but
with modern day products. The picture of the BMW defies the cradle to cradle concept because it uses gas as a fuel which emits
many gases into the atmosphere hurting the ozone. Also gas is a limited resource and will eventually run out which is a big
problem that cradle to cradle is trying to eventually fix. The Tesla model s embraces the cradle to cradle because instead of
using gas it uses electric power and electric cars don't send gases into the atmosphere. Their batteries also get charged without
using extra limited resources like oil.
http://www.motortrend.com/cars/bmw/m6/2017/

9. 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.)
Architecture can be described as many things and many people have different ways on how they describe it. There are many
buildings that have sensibilities about the past, present, and future. One building is the arch center that Jeanne Gang goes into
detail about in her TED talk. This building has sensibilities about the present. The building was made to help students with
socializing and talk about social justices. They got ideas from multiple meeting places like Iroquois long houses. This building
brings cultures together to talk about social injustices thus reflecting their cultural
context. A second building is the state capital it has sensibilities about the past.
George Washington used old Greek and roman architecture to construct it and
many government building used these designs after. These buildings represent
order and have a visual and cultural aesthetic that people realize when they see one
of these buildings.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/1600/presidents/georgewashington
"10 Buildings that Changed America." PBS. Accessed May 02, 2017. http://www.pbs.org/program/ten-that-changed-
america/10-buildings-changed-america/.

10. 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 an Zumthor are very intellectual authors and their viewpoints differ and are
similar on many different things. Ballantyne notices the artistic and aesthetic parts of
architecture but mainly focused on how the architecture affected the lives of the people
who use it every day. As stated in the article we cease to be conscious of the artistic value
of a place that we go to and work every day at. Instead of noticing the building and
thinking about it, we think about the things we have to do at that particular building. Zumthor puts more of an emphasis on the
aesthetic of architecture. The article talks about him describing a handle and how it looks. He focuses on the art of each part of a
certain piece of architecture. They are the same when it comes to recognizing the value of architecture. Both Ballantyne and
Zumthor see the importance in all aspects of architecture.
Zumthor, Peter. Thinking architecture. Basel: Birkhä user, 2010.
http://www.lovehandles.uk.com/handles-knobs/door-handles-on-backplate.html

11. Response to Levy Article
Here is your discussion question on the Levy article. Please post your own response, and respond to at least two other students'
responses.
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?
Planning can define the character of place it is a necessary action that is needed to create a place that works. I grew up in Rochester,
New York. Rochester has a very big population and people are always looking for something to do. The planners fixed up downtown
Rochester and started the construction of many bars in key locations of downtown Rochester to bring people together. Planning
eventually brought people closer giving them activities and places to go on weekends and weekdays. Art structures are placed to bring
liveliness and generate creativity by people who plan to stroll through the city. All of these things were carefully planned to raise the
happiness and standards of living for the people of Rochester. The article mentions planners in areas with a population of elderly
people may try to preserve what is
already there. It’s the opposite in
Rochester, planners are trying to create
new and exciting things for the younger
generation to enjoy.
http://mag.rochester.edu/about/

12. Response to Pruitt Igoe Project, Talen, and Larson
Here is your discussion question on the Pruitt Igoe project, the Talen article, and the Larson lecture. article. Please post your own response, and respond to at
least two other students' responses.
Imagine that you are part of a 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" The thee of 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?
The Pruitt Igoe was a huge failure in housing development in St.Louis. It was promised to be very hopeful but took a huge turn for the
worst to its inevitable downfall. It was plagued with crime, drugs and violence and it just got worst because maintenance and security
started to decrease as poor residents couldn't afford their rent. Talen would have taken more time to plan out the public housing
failure. She would have noticed that she is dealing with very poor residents and made the housing a little more affordable and made
sure that the housing didn't deteriorate as fast as it did. Larson would have tried to put more advanced mechanism in the housing to
make it easier for the residents. Larson would have also tried to put automated security
measures to ensure the safety of the residents. Like he said " Put smart things in dumb
houses" . I would have lowered the price of the of the rent and improved the living
conditions of the residents. I think the original planners had a good idea it’s just that it
started to segregate the city and more and more low income residents started to just be
dumped there and then eventually people couldn't afford it leading to crime and other
things. The strategies I listed would be more effective because they take the well-being
of the resident first. The safety and living conditions and affordability should be always
being a huge factor.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pruitt%E2%80%93Igoe
"Pruitt–Igoe." Wikipedia. April 30, 2017. Accessed May 03, 2017. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pruitt%E2%80%93Igoe.

13. 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?
Olmstead made this claim because of the placement of the parks and public places in buffalo. He loved how parks were shared equally
about all social classes. The rich and the poor get to enjoy
these parks. I think he would still make this claim today
because the public parks are still around today and many
people go to the and enjoy what they have to offer. A lot of
the parks also compliment the area they are made in.
Buffalo is a very big city with many clustered buildings and
the parks in it are very spread out and open and people can
enjoy the nature around them.
https://www.expedia.com/Buffalo-City-Hall-
Buffalo.d6064381.Vacation-Attraction
Rich, Nathaniel. "When Parks Were Radical." The Atlantic. August 12, 2016. Accessed May 03, 2017.
https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2016/09/better-than-nature/492716/.

14. Response to Walter Hood's Work1
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).
Back home in Rochester there is a park downtown near highland that should be memorialized. I would come into the project looking
to take in everyone in the areas cultural backgrounds and beliefs. If this is taken into account, the park could be that much better.
Because there is many African Americans in the area I would put a statue in the park commemorating an important African American
figure from Rochester or upstate New York. I would leave the nature as is and try to build streets and paths around the aesthetic plants.
These paths would bring all types of people together and they would bond in that area. People could then come there to meet up and
meet friends. Also there is a pond in the park where docks can be built so people can fish in their leisure time.
http://www2.monroecounty.gov/parks-highland.php

15. Response to the Brookes1
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 poster was an anti-Nazi poster that was made to oppose Adolf Hitler and his army during the
second world war. This poster is telling people to join the military to destroy the Nazi army or
"step on" the Nazi army. The foot is representing the military and it is over the swastika. This
poster is very important and most likely changed people’s opinions about the war. If was born in
Germany under Nazi rule and was raised listening to and living the Nazi values this poster would
be offensive. I'd be mad because opposing countries are disrespecting mine and it'd make me want
to join the army to go against them. Some reasons this would happen is the effect of childhood
influence that adults have. Another reason is the surroundings they are living in and what is a
normality for them throughout the day.
https://it.pinterest.com/pin/551691023089359779/

16. Response to Charles Davis and equityXdesign's Work
12345Critique 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 MLK memorial is a famous statue in a park in Washington D.C. It is very important and memorializes one of the
greatest African American leaders this country has ever seen. With all of that being said it can
still be critiqued. I think more information and quotes from Martin Luther King’s life could be
incorporated. One of the first steps to thinking of a way to critique it is to notice what needs to
be critiqued. The second is empathy. One must realize the hope and change Martin Luther King
Jr. brought to people’s lives. He made millions of people feel like people again and finally feel
accepted and happy. The memorial should do the same.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther_King_Jr._Memorial

17. Response to "Landscape Stories" Chapter1
This is a two-part question. Please post your own response by Friday, March 31at 10:00 am, and respond to at least two other students’
responses by Sunday, April 2 at 10:00 pm.
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 interpets 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.)
In my home my mom has a collection of African American literature ranging from journals, articles, novels and poems. They
touch on many issues and really tell the story of the African American people and what they had to go through to get where they
are today. I am part African American and this collection of books has helped me understand my ethnicity even more. These
books are also very enlightening and gave me a new look on the world around me. This is something i would keep in my house
so my children can then know more about their ethnic background. Rochester has a huge art museum holding different pieces
from all different ethnicities. The gallery has consistently been updated with new works of art frequently with exhibits made by
African Americans, Native Americans and etc. People come and continue to come to appreciate the art from other racial
backgrounds. Near the museum there is also many sculptures that have
messages about underrepresented groups and some sculptures just for show.
This influence is being passed down as people continue to come to the gallery.
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bookshelf.jpg

18. Response to Article on Sports Branding
This thread will focus on the ethnic characteristics of sports branding. Please post your own response by Friday, March 31at 10:00
am, and respond to at least two other students’ responses by Sunday, April 2 at 10:00 pm.
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.)
The issue with ethnic references for sports team’s logos and mascots has been going on for a while. Back at my high school there was
an issue because our name used to be the Penfield Chiefs. This referenced native Americans and was later changed to the patriots. I
don't think teams should be doing that with their names because certain things
offed certain people and one person can’t speak for an entire race of people. I feel
that branding designers have more than enough things to reference than a group of
people. If someone takes an offense to something along those lines it obviously is
wrong and should be changed. The problem is they are making too much money
off of these logos. I also just think that a little bit of stubbornness is involved and
they could potentially change it if they wanted to.
https://www.penfieldchiefs.org/

19. Response to "Visualizing Gender" Chapter1
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?
The approach get the idea is used in this pro-life ad. The ad consists of a stick figure like
women with a red baby that was also stick figure like hanging from the mother’s neck in a
noose. It pushes death and dismay upon the viewer with the combination of black white and
red. Also the baby in the nose is the man focal point of the ad letting viewers see that first
as they examine the ad. It is pretty effective because as a viewer you start to empathize for
the children. This ad I thought as pretty complete and I don’t think many changes would
improve it. Maybe instead of Abortion at the bottom it could say murder to amplify the
message the creator of the ad was trying to send.
http://www.designer-daily.com/20-creative-advertising-posters-for-your-inspiration-53653
Response to Bathroom Bill1

20. 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.
People should use the bathroom that correlates with the biological gender written on their birth
certificate because it is the norm. It is what is expected of us, if you have the male genitalia you go
to the men’s restroom. Also many women may not feel comfortable with a man that identifies
himself as a woman in the women's bathroom for safety reasons. A reason that they shouldn't is
because you can't control what people are and how they feel about themselves and we should also
accommodate them. If a woman identifies as a man and thinks she is a man, why can’t she use the
men’s bathroom and vice versa. As a designer I would just change the bathrooms from being men
and women to just plain male genitalia and female genitalia. That way if you have either or you just
use that bathroom.
http://www.clipartkid.com/men-women-bathroom-sign-cliparts/
Response to Hidden Ways

21. 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.
This type of space the first picture represents is slippery. Baird point can be seen but it is often overlooked by people who pass it by
and there isn’t a clear path to it. You have to walk through a lot of grass of mud to get to the main attraction. I think it discriminates
against from most students at alumni because they may want to preserve that space as a part of the nature of UB. The second picture is
being tables with connected chairs that are curved and are separated. This space is prickly because it
isn’t really comfortable and is really cramped. This is targeting UB students and others You can sit in
them for a certain amount of time before being uncomfortable giving others a chance to sit as well.
They also aren’t great for people who are bigger than most because the chair is connected to the table
without much room for comfort. There is a ton of students attending this school and you have to
accommodate them all.
Photo taken by Vaughn Shorter
https://ublearns.buffalo.edu/courses/1/2171_14992_COMB/db/_3674925_1/embedded/20170414_083904%5B4281%5D%282%29.jpg
Response to People Like Us

22. 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?
The first step that my team and I would make is designing a way to get Tammy an education that isn't too expensive. With an
education and a degree Tammy would have higher chances of getting hired. She would then learn a skill or gain knowledge that could
potentially land her a job. Another thing I would do is locate a new area for her to live in that wasn't surrounded by people who are
also in poverty. My team would design a much better house than the one she currently lives in. This house would be bigger, better, and
affordable. It would be a hundred times better than the home she currently lives in.
Waking up in a new setting I think would definitely help her make better life choices to
progress. Raising money for them would also help, just until Tammy finds a job that
supports her family and her.
Http://www.listchallenges.com/lists/books/popular
Response to Carroll Article: “(Re)forming Regent Park: When Policy Does Not Equal Practice”

23. 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?
Regent park is completed through phases and these phases when implemented should better the park and the people around it.
Attention should be put on the separation of people by income and age. All people should be blended together regardless of their
income. How much money a person makes should never be a dividing factor in public housing. This places all of the low income
people together and higher levels of crime start to occur. Also by separation of age you have to realize that older people can’t be on
higher floors and living would be made cumbersome. Landlords would also have to start being present. When the landlord is absent,
the housing doesn’t get fixed when it needs to and can lead
to slow deterioration. All of the buildings would get worse
and worse and same with the living conditions.
https://core.score.org/blog/2016/ups-store/16-steps-
starting-business-while-working-full-time-step-1-select-
business
Tauke, Beth, Korydon H. Smith, and Charles L.
Davis. Diversity and design: understanding hidden
consequences. New York: Routledge, 2016.
Response to Enriquez TED Talk: “What Will Humans Look Like in 100 Years?”

24. 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 increasing change in life spans will inevitably effect the society and environment around us. One huge change would be
overpopulation. Since people are living to a higher age it means that they are on the earth longer and either occupying land or services.
The rate of births would end up being higher than the rate of deaths and that in itself could lead to many more problems. Also there
may need to be more nursing homes, nurses, and doctors to care for the elderly. At those high ages people need help and care in many
ways. Attention will start to be placed on the elderly, which means that attention could be taken from the attention to younger people
that also need care. Designers may also have to build more handicapped accessible things in
many places because the number of elderly people would be higher. This would cost a lot of
money to do because almost everything in the world would have to modified.
http://www.drivemedical.com/wheelchairs
Response to PPT, Smithsonian, and Roy1

25. The two most frequently mentioned models of disability are the ‘social’ and the ‘medical’ models. The medical model of disability
views disability as a medical ‘problem’ that belongs to the disabled individual. The social model of disability, in contrast, draws on the
idea that it is society that disables people, through designing everything to meet the needs of the majority of people who are not
disabled. There is a recognition within the social model that there is a great deal that society can do to reduce, and ultimately remove,
some of these disabling barriers, and that this task is the responsibility of society, rather than the disabled person.
In the Smithsonian online exhibition, the story about the superhero hand, and Elise Roy’s TED Talk, you saw examples of ways to
engage disability that use the social model rather than the medical model. In the Disability and Design PowerPoint, you
were introduced to the concept of Universal Design (UD) (sometimes called inclusive design, design-for-all, or human-centered
design). Certainly, UD embraces the social model of disability. In this same PowerPoint, you saw positive and negative examples of
each of the seven principles of universal design.
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.
One of the seven universal design principles that is used in every day design for people with disabilities is simple and intuitive use.
Nosy cups implement this principle and are designed for elderly people who can’t really hold onto their cups all that well. The usage is
simple you hold the cup and drink and there’s not much more to it. Nosey cups have a cut out in them for the users nose because older
people have a hard time holding and controlling things so the cut out ensures they don't potentially spill the liquid all of themselves. A
negative that these cups have is the amount of liquid you can pour in them. Since there is a cut out only half the glass is available for
use. Another negative is that people with severely impaired motor skills still have a hard time using them.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/241153755020739346/

26. 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.
This leads us to this week’s discussion question:
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 technology today is the most advanced it’s ever been and every day it just gets better and better. As we progress, we can then see
the mistakes of the past and then move to correct them in a manner that is most fit. Design also is something that can be improved and
learned from as time goes on and now we have figured out ways to design
our bodies and our children. This has its benefits because then we can make
people with traits and attributes that we want. You can also change the way
look to make it something that is more appeasing to you eye. A negative to
all of this is that we lose the natural part of ourselves and eon up being
handmade. this could cause disease or disorders resulting from human error.
These designs take away the natural part of human life and could potentially
make things too perfect. People would start to look the same and have the
same ideal qualities resulting in a loss of uniqueness. they tinker with the
equilibrium of life as a whole and I feel that this kind of technology
should be used sparingly in the future.
http://www.sciencemag.org/news/2015/03/humans-may-harbor-more-100-genes-other-organisms

27. 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?
The film was made to show the terrible life and living conditions that insane inmates have to deal with.I think he should have been
allowed because these people are not in the right mental state to give consent. As a result, i think the institution should be the one to
give consent. I think that once designersunderstand the way that these people live and how they are treated then they can make a
change. With out knowing what the problem is you can't proceed to fix it. The designers could make a way for the inmates to have
easier access to water and other basic needs without it being a challenge on the guards and their part. The inmates were also treated to
the point of tortured animals and i think they could figure out a way to change the behavior of the people who work there as well.
http://www.asylumprojects.org/index.php?title=Bridgewater_State_Hospital

28. 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”?
I have volunteered in multiple group homes and I know what they have to go through. I would support the proposal because it would help out the
people in the home tremendously. It also would be for a good cause, the people in the group home need that area way more than anything and who
am I to take that away from them. Even if there are public disturbances or instances where a scene is being made I would push it to the side
knowing that the people in the house need the support. The point of the group home is to help the residents out when public disturbances happen
and then they can teach them what’s wrong and right. The people around me may not be fully understanding and the price of the houses around it
may decrease but at least it'd be for a good cause. Instead of thinking about our own personal comfort we have taken into account people who have
it a lot worse than us.
http://www.az-mentor.com/childrens-services/group-homes

29. 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?
I grew up in Penfield, a town in Rochester, and my family and I would often go to church on Sundays. We would attend a place
called Browncroft church. It was a place where Christians could go and worship god. This place has developed many children and
parents around the town and any other people who have attended the church. Around the church, the city hall is down the road and
they both are designed similarly with an almost modern design. I think its role has stayed pretty much the same over the years. It has
been a place that taught people the teachings of god in a friendly environment. I think in the future it will continue to teach people
the ways of Jesus Christ and more and more people will start to model their lives after him an even better their lives. I also think it will
be a place that children come to learn and meet new people every time they attend a program or service.
http://www.houghton.edu/calendar-events/christmas-prism-rochester-performance/2446/

30. 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 computer engineering major and after I graduate I want to either be a software engineer or design technology for
future cars. Right now one of the biggest things that the automotive industry has been tackling is self-driving cars. This is amazing
when you think about it and we are really close to having them. The problem
is the pricing of these cars and the fact that they wouldn't be the norm. I want
to get into the field and think of a cheaper way to do this so everyone can
enjoy the luxury of their car. Then when this happens the streets and roads
would have to be changed to accommodate all of these cars flooding the
market. When this happens the whole world will change and our how we
view cars then will be completely different than how we view cars
now. Going somewhere would be so much easier and relaxing. The only
thing that we'd have to worry about is computer malfunctions and things like
that but I think we will figure out a way to overcome all the bugs that occur.
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/electronics/computers-pcs/abcat0500000.c?id=abcat0500000