ARC211: American Diversity and Design: Mikaela Droesler

University at Buffalo-State University of New York
ARC211-American Diversity and Design-Spring 2017
Online Discussion Questions
Mikaela Droesler
http://jointcenter.org/blog/study-calls-increased-racialethnic-diversity-clinical-trials-combat-cancer-disparities

Welcome Page
My names Mikaela Droesler, I’m from Buffalo and I’m a sophomore and an
occupational therapy major at the University at Buffalo. Before taking Diversity
and Design, I would immediately think about architects whenever someone
mentioned anything about design. But after taking this course, I now consider
myself a designer. This course has truly taught me more than just how design
impacts diversity groups, it has taught me how to think differently and how to
reflect my thoughts and opinions in a much more coherent manner, it has
shown me that there is always two sides to any topic or issue being discussed.
Along with personal growth, this course has taught me things about my own
city, which has only made my love for Buffalo grow stronger.
I liked that I was able to make connections between some of the topics and my
intended profession. This occurred even beyond the week we learned about
design and physical disabilities, which made the course that much more
enjoyable. I will carry the knowledge and skills I’ve gained from this course with
me throughout my college career and even beyond, into my future profession.
The following pages document my responses to the online discussion questions in the Spring 2017 version of
ARC211 American Diversity and Design at the University at Buffalo—State University of New York.
Photograph by Trey Kha

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.
Hello everyone! My names Mikaela Droesler and I'm from Buffalo. I
went to Erie Community College my first semester and transferred to
the University at Buffalo last spring. I am a sophomore and an
occupational therapy student. I am pursing a bachelor’s degree in
occupational science and a masters in occupational therapy. After
graduating I would love to work in a Neurology unit in a traditional
hospital setting. I enjoy listening to alternative music and I am
currently building a vinyl collection. Nothing beats the sound quality of
a record player and I enjoy having physical copies of music as oppose
to digital ones.
https://www.pinterest.com/explore/record-player/

Response to “What is design?” from Hello World
On “What is design?” from Hello World: Where Design Meets Life by Alice Rawsthron
The author opened her chapter with the example of Ying Zheng, the ruler of the Qin empire, one of the most
powerful and enduring empires in the history of China. She explained how design innovation contributed to Ying
Zheng’s success. For example, in the development of weaponry, he resolved many problems by standardizing
parts, and this single innovation gave his armies great advantage over other armies.
For this discussion, let’s move away from 246 B.C. China, and into the U.S. Describe an innovation or invention
(can be current or historical) that gave advantage to a group of people in the U.S. or to the population as a whole.
What were the social impacts of this innovation? Were any groups negatively impacted by this innovation? For
example, the telegraph, developed and patented in the United States in 1837 by Samuel Morse, permitted people
and commerce to transmit messages across both continents and oceans almost instantly, with widespread
social and economic impacts. This heightened communication speed allowed business persons to make
decisions with up-to-date information, often resulting in big profits. Those without access had to rely on outdated
information, which put them at a disadvantage.
An innovation that has considerably changed the lives of U.S. citizens would be public transportation. Examples include:
streetcars, motor buses, subways, and other recently developed forms. There’s no doubt that public transportation has
made a tremendous impact on every major city in the United States. New York City is a great example. Many individuals

do not drive their own vehicle, instead, they opt for one of the numerous forms of public transportation that the city has to
offer.
It can also be argued that public transportation has especially changed the lives of those with lower socioeconomic status,
who may not be able to afford their own vehicle. This innovation provides extensive opportunities for these individuals. For
instance, someone may want to attend college or apply for a job, but both are located too far away to walk to or ride a bike
to. Public transportation makes both of these desires very realistic.
The use of public transportation is also inexpensive and safer compared to owning and driving your own vehicle. With that
being said, it seems unlikely that any group has been negatively impacted by public transportation.
http://www.nyctourist.com/sites/default/files/nyc_transportation_billboard_0.jpg

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.)

It’s quite remarkable how even everyday items have been impacted by diversity groups. Eating utensils being one of
them. Individuals with neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, Essential Tremor, and
other conditions, such as spinal cord injuries and post stroke deficits, have trouble feeding themselves. To help these
individuals gain back their dignity, confidence, and most importantly, their independence; Liftware has created an eating
utensil especially for them. The
previously mentioned diseases, along
with many other neurological disorders
and conditions, have multiple symptoms
that can affect everyone differently.
Therefore, Liftware has created two
different types of handles, along with a
One of the handle options being the
Liftware Steady, which is designed to
help those with hand tremor. It stabilizes
itself through sensors and a small on
board computer that can detect un
wanted tremor.1
Thanks to a group of scientists and engineers, Liftware was created and millions of individuals that suffer
from the symptoms of neurological disorders now have the option to eat confidently and independently.

1
"Eat with confidence again." Liftware. Accessed April 30, 2017.
https://www.liftware.com/?gclid=CPbj3JTZzdMCFVVMDQodt7AKMw.
http://softwarefocus.net/ehealth/google-makes-it-easier-for-patients-
with-parkinsons-to-eat.html

Response to Media/Society Chapter and TED Talk on Photographs
Where would you place the images shown in Photos That Changed the World into Croteau and Hoynes’ diagram
entitled “Model of Media and the Social World”? Identify a mass media photograph taken in your own lifetime
that has served as an icon of an event. (Feel free to add an attachment). What roles does this photo play in the
communication of the event?
I would place the images shown in Photos That Changed the World between the “readers or audience” and “media
message or product” portions of Croteau and Hoynes’s diagram of “Model of Media and Social World.” I believe it is up to
us as the viewer to interpret the images we’re exposed to,2
as well as process them according to our principals. Also, it’s
the media’s purpose to provide us with the images so we can come to the same message they want to convey through
our own self conclusion.
As for an example of an iconic image taken in my life time, I feel
that the image of a protester in Ferguson, throwing a tear gas
back at tactical officers would be more than justifiable. This is
because the intensity of the image serves the purpose of
conveying the severity of the protests as well as backing up the
idea of fighting against “the system” in order to provoke change
and decide our fate.

2
Croteau, David R., and William Hoynes. "Chapter 1: Media and the Social World." In Media/Society: Industries, Images, and
Audiences. Thousand Oaks, California: SAGE Publications, 2013.
http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/crime-and-
courts/ferguson-protester-who-threw-back-tear-gas-
cannister-in-iconic/article_437076f9-a6a2-5f03-a2fb-
d612611a504f.html

Response to Articles on Hats as Communication Design
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 (red and pink) in both articles are vehicles of
communication design because they identify one’s political stance in
a quick and simple manner. Along with bright colors and the very
basic design of both hats, they have appeared immensely in different
forms of media. These factors make it easy to identify the wearer of
either hat’s political stance. For example, those who wear the red
trucker hat, with the phrase, “Make America Great Again,” can be
associated with supporting president Donald Trump. While those who
wear the pink, knit “Pussyhat” can be identified as liberal’s, or
feminist’s, who are not particularly in favor of Trump’s presidency.
https://shop.donaldjtrump.com/products/offic
ial-donald-trump-make-america-great-again-
cap-red?variant=26118358278

Through it’s simple design of white Times New Roman font against a red background, the “Make America Great Again”
trucker hat was meant to create a similar ground between our newly elected president and the “common” man. Along with
the easy-to-read font, the message itself conveys the idea that Trump wants to restore America back to the way it used to
be. It didn’t matter whether president Trump was fully honest or not to his most targeted audience. He needed something
that would make the “everyday” man trust what he had to say, to create a common ground that would make people
comfortable. The simplicity of the hat, for example, disconnects itself from tasteful, high-design brands, that do not appeal
to the middle America. The red hat is just as American as apple pie and baseball.3
On the other hand, the “Pussyhat” was meant to serve as a symbol of
unity for all liberal’s, who are against the president. The pink knitted
hat with cat ears was ultimately produced to be worn by protestors at
the Women’s March on Washington. While also making fun of a past
comment made by President Donald Trump about grabbing women
by their genitals,4
the hat was meant to bring females together. For
example, it was made to let female’s that couldn’t attend the march
know that they are not alone, that they are unified.

3
Budds, Diana. "The Worst Design Of 2016 Was Also The Most Effective." Co.Design. January 03, 2017. Accessed May
01, 2017. https://www.fastcodesign.com/3066599/the-worst-design-of-2016-was-also-the-most-effective.

4
Rogers, Katie. "Fashioning Protest for the Women's March on Washington." The New York Times. January 18, 2017.
Accessed May 01, 2017. https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/18/fashion/womens-march-washington-fashion-
protest.html?_r=0.
http://www.browndailyherald.com/2017/03/23/
jayna-zweiman-01-brings-pussyhats-campus/

Both hats are similar in that they stand for something of great significance and yet they are of very basic design. As
previously discussed, Donald Trumps red “Make America Great Again” trucker hat has a simple font and a red
background and is worn by his supporters. While the “Pussyhat,” a simple pink knitted hat with cat ears, stands for female
unity and is ultimately the symbol of the Women’s March on Washington. Donald Trump’s presidency and the Women’s
March on Washington are two powerful events that will have a lasting impact. Besides the different appearances of each
hat, they also differ from each other in that they stand for two completely different events, give off different messages, and
are appealing to different parties.

Response to “Industrial Design” by John Heskett and “The Incredible Inventions of Intuitive Al” 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?
Among various other ways in which Henry Ford’s production line affected our U.S. society, this system also produced
more employment opportunities. Thanks to the production line, Ford no longer had to use skilled craftsmen to assemble
his Model “T” cars. He was able to hire “low-skilled” workers and teach them a few simple steps. The production line still
provides jobs to this day. For example, the tires on one’s vehicle are assembled by “low-skilled” worker’s who only have to
perform a few simple tasks on/for the tire. Thanks to the production line, several of my family members have jobs.

From the sound of Maurice Conti’s TED Talk, it
seems as though manufacturing processes in the
next twenty years will only lead to increased
unemployment. The idea of humans and robots
augmenting together5
sounds beneficial, but only
to designers, engineers, and other related
professions. The effects of Ford’s production line
will be reversed A shift would occur from
opportunities for low-skilled, blue collar workers, to
an increased demand for highly skilled, white-
collar workers, thus contradicting the initial
purpose of Ford’s design. The entire premise of
Ford’s design relied on efficiency, and the ability to train the average, every-day American the steps needed perform a
job. By implementing robotics as well as the use of human work, this efficiency is sacrificed since a worker would require
specialized training in order to operate said machinery.

5
Conti, Maurice. "The incredible inventions of intuitive AI." Maurice Conti: The incredible inventions of intuitive AI | TED
Talk | TED.com. Accessed May 03, 2017.
https://www.ted.com/talks/maurice_conti_the_incredible_inventions_of_intuitive_ai?language=en.
http://hereandnow.legacy.wbur.org/2013/10/16/assembly-line-
anniversary

Response to IDEA Awards and Cradle-to-Cradle Video
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 resists or disregard the
concept? Provide an example of any product that embraces Cradle-to-Cradle design. Please describe and site
sources.
The Rolls-Royce Dawn is a 2016 IDEA Gold Award
product that defies the Cradle-to-Cradle concept. Rolls-
Royce is a British car company that prides itself on its
hand-assembled automobiles that are made of some of
the finest materials known to man. It takes 3-4 months to
build a Rolls-Royce by hand, compared to Toyota,
where it only takes 13 hours to build one of their
vehicles.6
The Rolls-Royce Dawn specifically sports a
hefty V12 engine that averages 12 miles per gallon in
the city, and 19 on the highway.
This vehicle defies Cradle-to-Cradle due to the fact that the materials are not exactly renewable. For example, grade A
bull hide is used to upholster the interior of the car, which is not a renewable material. Along with this, another example of
how this product defies the Cradle-to-Cradle concept is that it depends on copious amounts of premium fuel. This vehicle

6
http://blog.rolls-roycemotorcarsraleigh.com/long-take-build-rolls-royce/
http://www.roadandtrack.com/car-
culture/reviews/a29628/the-first-drive-2017-rolls-royce-
dawn-elegance-in-excess/

uses tremendous amounts of energy, thus increasing the carbon footprint. It’s also important to note the cost of this
vehicle averages around $400,000. This is another feature that defies the Cradle-to-Cradle concept, since low-cost
materials and availability to consumers are both key concepts of Cradle-to-Cradle.
A product that embraces the Cradle-To-Cradle concept is the gDiaper.
These compostable diapers aren’t like other “eco” diapers that still have
plastic parts that cannot be broken down and end up staying in the
environment long after they are thrown away. GDiaper’s are made up of
gPants and flushable inserts that are actually Cradle-to-Cradle Certified.7
The gDiaper inserts are more than 75% cellulose-based,8
meaning, as
long as they are wet, they are compostable and can be turned into
resources right from home. One can even use gDiaper inserts as a
compost for their garden. Along with this product being ecologically smart,
it is also clean, cute and comfortable and as consumers we look for
products that are versatile, in which they are “attractive” to the eye,
ecologically smart, and comfortable. More information about gDiaper's can
be found from their website www.gdiapers.com.

7
"Getting Started with Hybrid Diapers." GDiapers. Accessed May 01, 2017. https://www.gdiapers.com/pages/getting-
started.
8
Circular Examples. Accessed May 01, 2017. http://circulardesigncases.nl/examples/gdiapers/.
http://epea-
hamburg.org/en/content/cradle-
cradle%C2%AE

Response to All Module 4 Materials
Mies Van de 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.)
Thomas Jefferson’s design of the the State Capitol in Virginia is
one that holds much sensibility when it comes to the past.
Thomas Jefferson despised the “Georgian” theme architecture
and wanted to base his designs off a different source. Drawing
inspiration from the Masion Carree of ancient times, he does
just that. Although he pays respects to the ancient designs, he
also adds practicality and incorporates his personal principles
to it as well. Such as the additions of windows whereas designs
from before lacked such amenities. As well as the statue of
George Washington in place of where a statue of a god would
be. Jefferson uses the construction of this new building as a
https://www.britannica.com/biography/George-Edward-
Pickett

means of cutting ties from Great Britain and by employing these new methods of construction, he creates a layout that
many American architects still follow today.9
A design that had more sensibility to the future would be Eero Saarinean’s International airport in Dulle’s Virginia. This
would be because Saarinean sought to modernize the airport by minimalizing the distance a passenger had to travel while
in an airport. He accomplishes this by creating a single terminal that spanned an area of only 150 square feet. The Dulle’s
International Airport was unique, not only in it’s size, but the fact that it was the first airport that was designed exclusively
for jets. Also, in an age where most buildings didn’t live up to the potential that architecture had when it came to
expressing more radical ideas of design, Saarinean wanted to
go against the grain, to rebel against these ideals and really
push limits with his designs. He does just this with the curved
hammock-like design of the airport which provides a weightless
appearance to the structure.10
In essence, the Dulle’s
International Airport represented everything that was new,
exciting, and cutting edge during the era of it’s conception, from
the efficiency that it’s space provided, to its purpose for being
built.

9
"10 Buildings that Changed America." PBS. Accessed May 01, 2017. http://www.pbs.org/program/ten-that-changed-
america/10-buildings-changed-america/.

10

"10 Buildings that Changed America." PBS. Accessed May 01, 2017. http://www.pbs.org/program/ten-that-changed-
america/10-buildings-changed-america/.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_Dull
es_International_Airport

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.)
In the view point of Ballantyne’s article, the argument is that the
primary essence of a structure is its function and that it is only when
one puts thought into the structure, dissecting and analyzing it from
their perspective, that it becomes architecture. Meaning, that it is up
to us, as the observer to come up with our evaluations of a building
and it is us that puts substance and meaning to it. This is evident in
the example of the Colosseum of Rome, where its present ethos has
vastly changed from it’s past of bloodshed to a place for touristy
leisure.11
From the perspective of Zumthor, he thinks that it’s his
purpose as the architect to put meaning towards the materials and space provided. He draws upon the memories from his
childhood and the feelings that they invoked as a means to do so. Such as when he describes a door knob from his aunt’s
house and how he tried to invoke the feelings he felt in that space.12
The two both share beliefs that architecture can both

11
Ballantyne, Andrew. "Architecture, Life, and Habit." The Journal of Aesthetics and Art Criticism Vol. 69:43-49. Accessed
May 1, 2017.
12
Zumthor , Peter. "A way of looking at things." In Thinking Architecture, 9-26. Basel: Birkhauser Architecture, 2010.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colosseu
m

have meaning and serve a purpose as well. Both prioritize aesthetics but also factor in the building’s purpose. Each
existing in a harmonious balance with one another.

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?
Although I grew up in Kenmore, which is an outlying suburb of the Buffalo, New York area, I consider myself privileged to
have been exposed to the diversity that the planning of the city offered. If there’s one thing that’s special about Buffalo, it’s
the fact that one can get anywhere reasonable within a
20-minute drive. This is because our highway, the 190,
is designed to go in a loop. This enables a commuter to
easily travel from an area such as Amherst, which is
another suburb of Buffalo, towards downtown with
ease. The significance of this is because although the
majority of business in Buffalo occurs downtown, much
of the workforce live in the suburbs. The ease of
traveling between residence and workplace plays a
crucial role in the economy of the Buffalo-Metropolitan
area.
http://smartgrowth.org/new-boom-of-downtown-residents-
helps-buffalos-revitalization/

Another interesting characteristic of Buffalo that I’ve noticed is how as one travels farther away from downtown Buffalo,
which is the focus point for most of its activity, diversity tends to decrease. With the Metropolitan area of Buffalo consisting
of a cultivation of many racial, ethnic, and social backgrounds, and the suburban consisting mainly of middle to upper
middle class people.
Thanks to the clever planning and development put towards the Outer Harbor, Buffalo seems to be going through a sort of
resurgence. While being able to preserve the historical significance that the area has, the city has been able to direct a
high volume of activity towards that part of the city. Now it’s the center for any type of festival, concert, or big event during
the summer time and a family-friendly area for ice skating and other winter-oriented activities. The planning of this area
attracts all kinds of groups of people.

Response to Pruitt Igoe Project, Talen, and Larson
Imagine that you are part of an urban planning and design firm working with Emily Talen (author of “Design That
Enables Diversity”) and Kent Larson, who gave the TED Talk “Brilliant Designs to Fit More People In Every City.”
The three of you have been tasked with developing a plan to rebuild Pruitt Igoe in St. Louis. City officials told the
three of you 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?
Conceptually, Pruitt Igoe was an ideal solution for a problem that seemed to have plagued St. Louis. It was supposed to
be an alternative to the slums of St. Louis,13
where lower income families were provided with an opportunity for a new
start in new apartments with fresh amenities such as plumbing and public playgrounds. However, due to circumstances
such as a post-war movement from cities to suburban areas, as well as lacking government funding, the housing project
was doomed.
From what we’ve learned from the failure of Pruitt Igoe, we may be able use this information to improve it. Emily Talen
stated that in order for growth to occur, a city must focus on ways to attract human capital, meaning a shift must occur
from making business’s a priority to making people a priority. Also she considers diversity as a means for growth, stating

13
Cwavegan. "The Pruitt Igoe Myth." YouTube. September 27, 2015. Accessed May 02, 2017.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKgZM8y3hso.

that there is a correlation between diversity and lower rates of
unemployment and instability.14
If one were to apply this idea to a
situation such as Pruitt Igoe, where segregation impeded
diversity, which subsequently hindered growth, it would promise
a better outcome. Also in his Ted Talk, Kent Larson spoke about
the implication of “Compact Urban Cells,” which in essence was
how a city could provide all the amenities one would need; such
as hospitals, shops, and cafes, all within a mile radius or a 20-
minute walk.15
Thus creating a network of neighborhoods, all
linked by mass travel and mobility parkways. This would then
reduce the need for automobiles since one could get to one end
of a city to another without dealing with traffic. The use of this in a
city such as St. Louis would be beneficial because it would
counteract the suburban sprawl which crippled the Pruitt Igoe project by keeping residents in the city by providing
everything they would need within city limits.

14
Talen, E. "Design That Enables Diversity: The Complications of a Planning Ideal." Journal of Planning Literature 20, no.
3 (2006): 233-49. doi:10.1177/0885412205283104
15
Larson, Kent. "Brilliant designs to fit more people in every city." Kent Larson: Brilliant designs to fit more people in every
city | TED Talk | TED.com. Accessed May 02, 2017.
https://www.ted.com/talks/kent_larson_brilliant_designs_to_fit_more_people_in_every_city?nolanguage=en%23t-367652.
http://www.politico.com/states/new-york/city-
hall/story/2012/02/new-documentary-the-pruitt-
igoe-myth-tells-of-the-rise-and-fall-of-americas-
most-infamous-housing-project-067223

In order for a project such as Pruitt Igoe to thrive in todays economic, and social situations, I would make it my goal to
follow a plan of modernizing the projects for maximum efficiency. This can be achieved by using concepts and ideas put
forth by both Larson, and Talen. For instance, we can target a more diverse demographic, such as the generation of
Millennials seeking cheap housing. Along with implementing the use of modern technology, like the use of riding sharing
through mediums such as bikes and city cars, as proposed by Larson. It is through these ideas and concepts that I feel
Pruitt Igoe will be able to thrive.

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 Olmsted was claimed to be the first great architect of America. William Dorsheimer, a U.S. attorney for the
western district of New York, was hoping Olmsted would come to Buffalo and replicate his work done for Central Park.
Olmsted looked at Joseph Ellicot’s radiating city plan and came to the conclusion that there should be not just one park,
but rather three. He connected these parks with parkways lined by trees that created an illusion that an individual had not
even left a park. This design had yet to be established anywhere else in the United States, especially on such a large
scale. This made Buffalo unique compared to other cities. Olmsted’s statement that Buffalo is the best planned city in the
United States, if not in the world is based on his design of the three parks and their parkways.16
Frederick Olmsted proposed his ambitious design with the idea in mind that the parks would grow and prosper as Buffalo
did. Unfortunately, after the second World War, Olmsted’s parks and parkways were not maintained as they should have
been. Expressway’s were developed through complete sections of not only the parkways, but the parks as well. Despite
these loses, I personally believe that Olmsted would still make his previous claim. As a community, Buffalo is trying to
reintroduce Olmsted’s concept of “a city within a park.” The remaining parks and parkways are what make Buffalo unique

16
"Frederick Law Olmsted: Designing Western New York." PBS. May 04, 2015. Accessed May 02, 2017.
http://www.pbs.org/video/2365468061/.

and gives the city its aesthetic. Since I live fairly close to Deleware park, I have spent a considerable amount of time
there. I've noticed that park visitors are always from various diversity groups, which would have been something Olmsted
would've enjoyed seeing. As he wanted everyone to
enjoy the natural beauty of his parks. It may not occur
as much now, but some still have the privilege
of stepping outside of their homes and within a block or
two could be in a park or parkway designed by
Olmsted. Along with the previous examples mentioned,
there are many more supporting Olmsted's claim that
Buffalo is the best planned city in the United States, if
not the world.
http://buffaloah.com/a/notting/25/jap/jap.html

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 tried 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).
If there’s one thing about Buffalo that I admire is the fact that I’ve
lived here all my life and there’s still parts of it that I have yet to
discover. I discovered the Bird Island pier one day during one of
Buffalo’s warm spells. A friend and I decided we’d take advantage of
the weather by taking a walk along the waterfront. We drove to the
Foot of Ferry and we walked along the Bird Island pier. That had
been the first time I had ever visited this location and the sight of the
sunset as I was so close to the water simply had me in awe that
Buffalo had something so beautiful, yet so simple, just hidden away.
http://news.wbfo.org/term/broderick-park

The Bird Island pier’s design is very simple, as it is just a narrow walkway that spans about a mile and a half from the
West Ferry bridge. However, what it lacks in detail, it makes up for in the view that it provides of the water and the peace
bridge that connects us with Canada.
Upon farther research into this location, I was also surprised to find that that Broderick Park, the park that connects to the
pier, was one of the final stops upon the Underground Railroad. Slaves would use this point to ferry themselves from
Buffalo to Canada, into freedom. Which is why I feel like it deserves commemoration. This can be done through various
implications of Walter Hood’s triad of investigations; the everyday and mundane, commemoration, and lifeways.17
Implications such as the creation of a pavilion before the start of the pier, educating visitors of the historical importance of
the location. Also since this is a place for high pedestrian traffic, where people not only stroll with their family, they also
walk their dogs, and bike as well, we could place placards along the pier so that people can learn during their leisurely
stroll along the water.
In addition to educating the people, we could get them involved through various clean up programs and incentives to
make the location more family-friendly. We could also plant trees along the pier to make it more green and appealing to
the public. By doing this, we can encourage more people to visit and host events here. With enough effort by the city and
its people, I believe this can be the next Canalside.

17
Hood, Walter, and Megan Basnak. "Diverse Truths: Unveiling the Hidden Layers of the Shadow Catcher
Commemoration." In Diversity and Design: Understanding Hidden Consequences, 37-54. New York, NY: Routledge,
2016.

Response to the Brookes
The abolitionist poster, the Brookes, is an iconic image that often is included in exhibits that explore issues of
race and power. It was commissioned by Thomas Clarkson in 1788, and the Committee of the Abolition of Slavery
used it to inform and shock the public. While some consider the poster as an important component of the
abolitionist campaign, it recently “has been strongly criticized by some individuals and groups of African
heritage as providing a very limited view of the history of the transatlantic slave trade, resistance and abolition
(Hudson 2007).” The lesson here is that how a viewer sees an image is dependent upon his/her social, economic,
and cultural position. Keeping this in mind, find another iconic graphic that addresses racial issues and post it
for others in your group to view. 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.)
Jim Crow Laws were in effect in the southern United States during the late 1800’s to 1964, when they were finally
abolished. Racial segregation was mandated in all public facilities, including drinking fountains. To me, this graphic
signifies another historical event in which inequality was evidently prevalent. During the time of Jim Crow laws,
African American’s had a status of “separate but equal.” But from just viewing this graphic, it’s clear to see how much truth
this statement actually held.

If someone from African American decent or even another racial background was viewing the same graphic, they would
agree. But their feelings would be stronger. The time of Jim Crow Laws was a time of harsh segregation. This graphic is a
great instrument of empathy,18
as it creates stronger feelings of compassion, especially for those of African American
descent. This was no mere event in history, but
rather another long, grueling battle of equality their
ancestors had to fight for. When an African
American views this graphic they don’t see the
concept of “separate but equal.” The “colored”
drinking fountain’s design resembles one that would
be found in a prison cell where inmates are usually
treated as if they are less than human, unequal.
This different interpretation can be due to them
having ancestors that suffered through this time and
the fact that we still see the effects of Jim Crow happening today. Sure, colored individuals don’t have separate drinking
fountains anymore, but if a colored person has the same job as a Caucasian person, do they still get paid the same?

18
Institute of Historical Research (IHR), University of London and Institute for the Public Understanding of the Past,
University of York. The Brookes - visualizing the transatlantic slave trade. Accessed May 02, 2017.
http://www.history.ac.uk/1807commemorated/exhibitions/museums/brookes.html.
http://www.teachingushistory.org/lessons/WhyJimCrow.htm
l

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.)
The National Museum of African American History and Culture can
be critiqued following equityXdesign’s core beliefs and principles.
David Adjaye turns to vernacular art for inspiration, not to produce
an “African” sense, but rather to include African, African American,
and European cultural traditions through folk-art. Also by having the design of the building mimic that of African kings, he
ties in the legacy of African royalty with the cultural achievements made by those in the U.S today.19
This is a clear
representation of the first belief of Historical Context, where we must see where we were in the past as well as where we
are today.20

19
Davis, Charles. "No Longer Just a Dream: Commemorating the African American Experience on the National Mall."
In Diversity and Design: Understanding Hidden Consequences, 19-36. New York, NY: Routledge, 2016.
20
https://medium.com/@multiplyequity/racism-and-inequity-are-products-of-design-they-can-be-redesigned-
12188363cc6a

http://www.architecturalrecord.com/articles
/11964-national-museum-of-african-
american-history-and-culture

The museum is also a growing collection of arts, and artifacts gathered through not only contributions made by prominent
African American figures but everyday citizens, as well. By doing so, it follows in the belief of Radical Inclusion because it
includes people across socioeconomic statuses thus allowing for the display of different stories and experiences.

Response to “Landscape Stories” Chapter
First, let’s start with your own home. Describe a place in your home (indoors and/or outdoors) that you think of
as representative of your own ethnic background and discuss why you consider this place to be ‘ethnic’. –OR--
Describe an object in your home that you think of as representative of your ethnic background and discuss why
this object is considered to be ‘ethnic’. (If possible, add photo/s.) Is this object or place something that you will
keep or continue when you establish your own home? Why or why not?
Now let’s move into your community. In “Landscape Stories,” the
authors show how landscape architects develop a historical
narrative that sifts through and 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?
An object in my house that is representative of my ethnicity would be
the beer-stein my dad keeps in my parent’s room. A beer-stein is a
decorative beer mug of German origin. My grandfather on my dad’s side brought it over to America when his family
https://raredirndl.wordpress.com/2015/04/
23/true-facts-about-beer-steins/

immigrated from Germany. Many of these beer-steins are adorned with many intricate designs and sometimes very
detailed portraits of images such as popular German cities, German landscapes, and most popularly the German eagle. I
will consider keeping this beer-stein to commemorate my grandparent’s coming over to American during the second
World War.
In regards to my community, in the northern part of Buffalo resides a large Italian community, so much that a good portion
of Hertel Ave is considered “Little Italy.” This also is where the city celebrates this community through it’s Italian festival
every year. If you were to drive down this street, it would be obvious how the community displays its heritage through its
various businesses, such as Italian meat markets, pizzerias, and Italian restaurants. Additionally, the streets are adorned
with Italian flags every few blocks. From this, one can agree that this cultural influence is being preserved.

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?
Sports team branding designers should not use ethnic
references, doing so is derogatory and insulting to the ethnic groups
being referred to. Ethnic groups should not have to be exposed to
racial slurs every time they sit down to relax and watch a sport’s
game, which has become a huge part of American society today.
Most sports team branding designers claim they are only trying to
honor the group they’re referring to.21
But using names that have
ethnic references only leads to feelings of isolation to the ethnic
group being referenced. Sports teams need to acknowledge how
diverse our nation has become and consider renaming their teams
to something more relevant and less offensive. This topic is

21
Sports, Erik Brady. "The real history of Native American team names." USA Today. August 25, 2016. Accessed May 02,
2017. https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2016/08/24/real-history-native-american-team-names/89259596/.
https://thinkprogress.org/the-epic-battle-to-
save-the-most-offensive-team-name-in-
professional-sports-82389b6a68e0

complex and can be controversial, as some may argue that ethnic references for sports team branding should be
acceptable if that team is honoring or commemorating the ethnic group referenced.

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?
This image was part of a Salvation Army campaign to raise awareness of domestic abuse. The designer’s of this image
used the “get the idea” approach22
to convey their message. In 2015, an image of a dress, identical to the one the woman
is wearing in the photo, was passed around. This image made millions question whether it was black and blue or white
and gold. This context is a key part of understanding the campaign as it reads, “Why is it so hard to see black and blue?”
The approach is effective if the audience is familiar with the picture of “the dress.” It was a worldwide debate on what
colors the dress really was but domestic violence is no illusion as it usually results in black and blue marks. Unlike the
colors of the dress, this should not be a worldwide debate, the audience should “get the idea.”

22
Ganesh, Maya Indira, and Gabi Sobliye. "Communicating Gender: The Challenges of Visualizing Information for
Advocacy." In Diversity and Design: Understanding Hidden Consequences, 137-52. New York, NY: Routledge, 2016.

The designers were effective in conveying their message in this graphic and I think the only thing that could be improved
would be the text size. It may be difficult for some to read the smaller text without having to zoom in on their computer or
mobile device. I think it should be enlarged but not so much that it diverts attention away from the woman.
http://www.collective-evolution.com/2015/03/07/why-is-it-so-hard-to-see-black-blue-with-this-gold-
white-dress/

Response to Bathroom Bill
Last year, North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory signed into law a bill that repealed local LGBT anti-
discrimination laws, and required people to use the bathroom that corresponded with the biological gender
written on their birth certificates. This prompted massive backlash. McCrory stated, “You know, we all have to
make adjustments in life. And we’ve had the proper etiquette situation for decades in our country, and all of a
sudden through political correctness we’re throwing away basic etiquette.”
Just this past Thursday, the North Carolina General Assembly passed a bill
to repeal the law while placing a moratorium on nondiscrimination
measures.
Should people be required to use the bathroom that corresponds with the
biological gender written on their birth certificate? State why AND state why
not. In other words, to receive full credit for this question, you need to
present an argument for both sides of the issue. As a designer, how would
you solve this gender dilemma?
Personally, as a female, I believe people should use whichever bathroom that
corresponds with the gender they identify as. To ask a transgender person to use
the bathroom that corresponds with the biological gender written on their birth
certificate and not the gender they currently identify as, is disregarding their
https://clipartfest.com/categorie
s/view/9a3196fc966d1803baad8
b17415216ee963ffc35/clipart-
restroom-signs.html

humanity. This could feel very dehumanizing for those that are in the transitioning phase and even those that have
already transitioned as it makes self acceptance even more difficult.
While on the other hand, some may argue the opposite, that transgender’s should not be allowed to use the bathroom that
corresponds with the gender they identify with. Some females may feel uncomfortable allowing transgender females to
use the same bathroom as them since some males may have perverse intensions. If transgender’s were allowed to use
the bathroom they identify with, some heterosexual males could use this as an excuse to hang out in women bathroom’s. I
can not argue for males for either side of this debate and how they would feel allowing transgender males to use the
men’s bathroom.
As a designer I would solve the gender dilemma by simply making all bathrooms more private. I’ve noticed that most of
the public bathrooms I’ve been in have stalls that do not meet the floor, allowing your feet to show and have small gaps
between the door’s and the dividers between stalls. I would simply have all public bathroom stalls be more private.

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 picture.
The first example that came to mind of a slippery space is the Buffalo Japanese Garden, which is tucked away behind the
Buffalo History Museum. This area is visible from the nearby express way but can only be accessed via inconspicuously
hidden stairways that are sometimes mistaken for being part of the
landscape. I believe this space especially discriminates against the
financially disadvantaged, since it is located in a wealthy
neighborhood in North Buffalo. I took this photo right in the middle of
the Garden, where you can see one of the stairways.
An example of a prickly space would be the benches located
throughout the Elmwood village. These black metal benches are
scorching hot in the summer and freezing cold during the winter, thus
making them unsuitable for anyone to sit on them for long periods of
time. Not to mention, a bar is placed right across the benchesPhotograph by: Mikaela Droesler

preventing anyone from laying down on them. There’s a high
chance while walking on Elmwood that you will encounter a
homeless person asking for money or food, which leads me to
believe that these bars are mostly intended to keep homeless
people from sleeping on them. This picture was taken in front of
Elmwood Taco and Subs.
Photograph by Trey Kha

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?
Despite factors that lead people into poverty, location is
what keeps them there. Neighborhoods matter; the
https://bluxomestreetpost.com/2013/01/03/the-war-on-
poor-versus-the-war-on-poverty/

schools, community, neighbors, and possibilities that can be provided all play a critical role in shaping one’s character and
their future. Tammy Crabtree lives in a trailer located in a seemingly vacant area outside of a town where she works at a
Burger King,23
cleaning bathrooms. Most lower-skilled workers, such as Tammy, remain concentrated in areas with little to
no opportunities. Meanwhile, central cities where high-skilled workers are moving into are filled with new opportunities for
growth and prosperity.
If I was a designer working with iPD, I would develop housing in highly concentrated cities that would be low cost for us to
build and would provide them to those in poverty. I would use a lottery system for housing vouchers so we could provide
various opportunities for some of those who want to find a better job or go to a secondary educational setting. By moving
those in poverty into highly concentrated cities and towns, we would be able to provide new opportunities to them that
they wouldn’t encounter in the area that they previously resided in. For those still in impoverish neighborhoods, we could
expand public transportation to them so they could easily access the closest central cities.

23
Cnam2000. "Tammy's Story - People Like Us episode #4." YouTube. March 30, 2015. Accessed May 02, 2017.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37ZpauS5Doo&feature=youtu.be.

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?
One of the problems that arose in the Regent Park housing
facilities that prevented the social integration of the elder
community was that most of them were placed in one of the
tallest building on the site. Mobility issues were a concern for
the residents as well as isolation from other residents. This
could be solved by moving the residents out of the building
and using the apartments as a source of income, by renting
them at market value. This would create an opportunity to
relocate the older residents to a place for them to interact
with the community more easily and at the same time, make
profit to help better fund an already underfunded enterprise.
Another way we could provide the older people residing in
Regent Park with more social interaction is by integrating them with the younger generation. In the Ted Talk by Jared
Diamond, he mentions that elderly people are a great source of quality child care, because they have so much experience
http://spacing.ca/toronto/2013/01/23/3a-killing-the-
projects-and-the-new-regent-park/

with their own children in the past.24
They would be able to provide quality child care to those that may not be able to
afford pricey daycare centers or babysitters, since a good portion of the residents are low income families. Also by doing
this, we allow for families with a single source of income to transition to dual sources of income, by freeing the other
parent to find employment. Thus making it easier for them to transition out of the projects. Additionally, we’d be providing
the elderly with a sense of purpose in society by entrusting them with such a significant task such as childcare.

24
Diamond, Jared. "Transcript of "How societies can grow old better"." Jared Diamond: How societies can grow old better
| TED Talk Subtitles and Transcript | TED.com. Accessed May 02, 2017.
https://www.ted.com/talks/jared_diamond_how_societies_can_grow_old_better/transcript?language=en.

Response to PPT, Smithsonian, and Roy
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.

The universal design principle I decided to do was "Flexible of Use".
In many of the newer models of cars today, an option for
keyless entry is offered. By utilizing a key FOB, this allows the
driver a variety of ways to enter his or her car. Methods such
as simply being near the car, unlocks it automatically. Also,
suppose you accidentally lock your key in your car or simply
forgot to grab it on your way out of the house, you have the
option to enter a code to unlock your car. Similar to using an
iPhone. Finally, it also offers a traditional key, hidden in your
key FOB, in the event that your key runs out of battery.
Through the utilization of this method, it not only frees up your
hands, but also gives you a variety of methods to entering your car.
A negative example of this would be the more traditional way of entering your car, which would be sticking your key in the
keyhole and turning the key. This is due to the fact; it limits the ways you could get into your car. If your hands were tied
up, you'd have difficulty in freeing them to access your key to get in. Additionally, if you were to simply not have your key
with you, it'd be virtually impossible for you to get in. That being said, the keyless entry does disempower those that can't
afford modern cars that have this luxurious feature. In order to correct this, I would propose that it'd be a standard feature
in all cars made in the future, as we have done with options such as the backup camera.
https://casscountyford1.wordpress.com/2013/02/1
7/ford-technology-securicode-keyless-entry/

Response to Survery, FIXED, 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?

If we look at history and the role eugenics plays in it, we
can see the negative impacts it can have when we try to
play God. This is evident in the case of Nazi Germany,
and Hitler’s plan to create the “perfect race.” Through
methods such as the banning of unions of “hereditary
healthy” people and those who were deemed
genetically unfit to reproduce, and even as mass
sterilization of people with diseases such as blindness,
deafness, or even as far as alcoholism. Through looking
at this horrid part of history, we can see the results of
trying to unnaturally enhance our species.
However, through numerous breakthroughs and
innovations in technology and research, we can also see the positive aspects of biomedical enhancements. Due to such
advancements, such as the improvement of prosthetics to the point where they exceed the ability of actual human limbs
and being able to eliminate disease through genetic engineering.
As time progresses and as we make strides in technology, we are also continuously redefining boundaries of how far we
should go until we can essentially playing God. Other concerns such as the use of reproductive technologies creating
genetic castes among future generations where certain children are considered more superior to one another because of
manipulations done by their parents.
http://theopenacademy.com/content/biomedical-
engineering

All in all, I think the advancements we’ve made as a species, such as redefining what it means to be disabled and
improving our bodies in ways never thought of before, is amazing. I also see the potential for it to be abused and misused.
So what we do with this knowledge is entirely up to us.

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?
I feel like the question of whether or not Frederick Wiseman should’ve been able to film the patients of the institution is a
redundant one. This is because the contents of his documentary speaks volumes to the cruel treatment of the mentally ill
and not documenting such brutalities would call into question the moral integrity of Wiseman. Also, how could anyone
expect the institution to be truly concerned with violating the patient’s privacy rights when the treatment of patients in acts
of humiliation, belittlement and total disregard for the dignity of the patients does everything to contradict such
accusations. If anything, the case against him was more a case against bad publicity rather than the advocating of
privacy, since Wiseman secured consent prior to filming.

As for how designers may benefit from seeing a documentary such as
this one, I feel its value would be in how designers would use it to
avoid mistakes made in the past. They say hindsight is always 20/20
and I feel like this would be especially true. By analyzing everything
that was wrong with an institution such as this one, it could provide
designers with better insight when it comes to working with a group of
people such as this. Social designers could use this documentary to
farther educate not only caretakers of the mentally ill but the general
public to farther lessen the stigma of the mentally ill and to show what
happens when we view a certain group of people as lesser than us,
just because of disability.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Titicut_Follies

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”?
As a resident of the neighborhood, I would support the
construction of the group home. My primary reason
being that if I was so fortunate to be able to live in a
house worth 650,000 dollars with a ten-acre plot of
land, the construction of such a facility of such small
size would do very little to bother me. However, given
the past incidents that have occurred and the possible
likelihood for it to occur again, I could see how others
would oppose such a proposal. As an alternative, I
would propose a number of solutions. First, being that
there be proper supervision of the residents living
there. Additionally, I feel like an inclusion of a hedge
as a means of privacy would be beneficial to both
residents of the home and of the community. This is because it would keep them insulated within the boundaries of their
http://ccbsuperior.org/people-disabilities/

property and lower the chance of an incident occurring. Also, I feel like a hedge is a better alternative compared to a fence
or gate, since the suggestions of confinement are very unfavorable and would only feed into the stigma of the mentally
disabled.

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?
Growing up I attended mass every Saturday with my father and my grandmother, who was very Catholic. The church we
attended was St. Andrew’s Roman Catholic Church. The surrounding churches could not accommodate all of the Catholic
newcomers that migrated to the Buffalo and Niagara Falls area at the time. Thus St. Andrew’s church was built, in which
they welcomed over 400 people25
to their first Mass on July 9th, 1944.

25
St Andrew's Parish | Kenmore NY. Accessed May 16, 2017. https://www.standrewsrcchurch.org/about_us.

I believe St. Andrew’s church has served a role in
the development of my town, in that it has attracted
a lot of the catholic families to the neighborhood
surrounding it. I live quite close to the church and I
see a majority of the families on my street
attending Saturday and Sunday mass. It is
because of this, that I also feel the church has
influenced the design of the area around it, which
includes blocks of houses, apartments, and nursing
homes. It is quite a family-friendly area.
Overtime, the church began holding church-school
classes. It was clear that the space was inadequate
and St. Andrew’s needed a larger church and
additional space for classes to be held.26
Thanks to the expansion of the church-school, my father, my aunts, and my
siblings and I all completed primary and middle school there.
As for the future development of my town, the church will continue to attract Catholic Christian families to the area, since it
is so conveniently located in between two suburbs, Kenmore and Tonawanda.

26

St Andrew's Parish | Kenmore NY. Accessed May 16, 2017. https://www.standrewsrcchurch.org/about_us.

http://www.jcahrensphotography.com/2013/01/st-andrew-
church-wedding-photographer-kenmore-ny/

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’m currently a sophomore in the Occupational Therapy program here at UB and I think the biggest challenge that my field
is facing right now is the American Health Care Act that was recently passed. The act has been passed to the Senate and
will not become law until a final version has been agreed on and is signed by the president. If passed though, the health
care act will have a detrimental impact on occupational therapy practitioner’s and their clients. One of the major changes

is that insurance plans will no longer have to include “Essential
Health Benefits,” which includes rehabilitation and habilitation.27
I believe the most I can do as an OT student is to be a strong
advocate for my field and express my views. To be especially
effective in doing so, there is a page on the American Occupational
Therapy Association’s website in which I can write to my Senators
about my concerns.28
The effects of this act, if put into law would be
horrific for those that are in need of occupational therapy. The work
of occupational therapy practitioner’s is essential for those that have
difficulty living independently and participating in everyday activities.
A doctor may save your life, but an occupational therapist helps you
live it.

27

Aota.org. Accessed May 16, 2017. https://www.aota.org/Advocacy-Policy/Congressional-Affairs/Legislative-Issues-
Update/2017/AOTA-Statement-on-the-American-Health-Care-Act.aspx.

28
Aota.org. Accessed May 16, 2017. https://www.aota.org/Advocacy-Policy/Congressional-Affairs/Legislative-Issues-
Update/2017/house-passes-american-health-care-act-ahca.aspx.
https://www.lsuhsc.edu/library/news/?cat=
60

ARC211: American Diversity and Design: Mikaela Droesler

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