Crossing our borders

This research uncovers unconscious discriminatory behaviors and emphasizes open discussion and shared responsibility for change.

Academic paper
Workshops
3d Modeling
Prototype

context

Even if we are not aware of them, unconscious and internalized discriminatory behaviors can be perceived by others as hurtful and offensive. The lack of discussion around this topic stems from the fear of recognizing our shared responsibility to change these behaviors. This research presents various exploratory methodologies and introduces a new concept for a product that fosters conversation and increases empathy regarding discriminatory behaviors.

How can we became aware of discriminatory behaviors in the form of macroaggressions, initiate a conversation around it and generate self-reflection?
Top picture of Geodetica product

process

Structured process timeline, divided in three main phases.

Methodology and timeline of the project visualized

Talks, interviews and surveys were the first tools used in this research.

Call for interviews, talks and surveys

Including different nationalities, this workshop was designed to tackle discriminatory behaviors on a systematic level.

Descriptive graphic of workshop structure

The main challenge of this research was giving creating a context of freedom with the users involved to discuss such painful topics with ease. With probes, I gave the opportunity to think and write about it in the comfort of their home.

Descriptive graphic of probes structure

The ideation workshop was based on personas and scenarios created after the initial research phase.

Picture of ideation workshop material

At last, the prototyping phase, using different materials to explore the selected concept.

Pictures of prototyping and iterating phase

final design

In geometry, GEODETICA is a curve representing the shortest path between two points in a surface.It represents the lack of thoughtfulness and understanding that bring us from our biases to discriminatory behaviours.

Geodetica is a conversational and educational toll about discrimination. Able to generate interest among people while representing the consequences of microaggressions, and stimulate a conversations around the topic.

Picture with story of the fourth geodetica piece
Picture with story of the third geodetica piece
Picture with story of the second geodetica piece
Picture with story of the first geodetica piece
Picture of two pieces of geodetica and conversational tabs
Picture of the conversational tab of geodetica
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