Diagrammingworking field theories for design in the hci classroom

Abstract

HCI has historically provided little support for moving from feldwork insights or theories to design outcomes. Having witnessed many students struggle and then justify their designs with a form of marketing hype, we developed a supporting approach of feld theories. A feld theory is a working theory about salient interactions in a particular domain and sensitizing concepts in order to frame design investigations. It is presented visually in a feld theory diagram to support succinct communication and critique. Studying use of design prototypes that have been informed by a feld theory helps to refect upon and refne the theory. In this paper we present examples from our HCI classes and refections based on interviews with students. We discuss how feld theories ofer an orientation in the spirit of a 'bricoleur' who harnesses elements of theory and practice to produce deeper understandings and more ftting outcomes for the task at hand.