PlaceHarbortonfinal.pdf (2.57 MB)
The meaning of place in supporting sociality
conference contribution
posted on 2023-06-09, 06:15 authored by Ann LightAnn Light, Kate HowlandKate Howland, Tom Hamilton, David HarleyWhile social isolation in an ageing population is a concern in many locations, it is greater in towns where divisive local geography and declining investment conspire against meeting places and mutual awareness. This research into the design of location-based tools to support sociality asks whether embedded digital tools that make neighbourhood activities and/or people’s movements more visible have the potential to increase serendipitous encounters and deepen a sense of community cohesion. Taking to the streets of a small town to explore if digital tools might improve the situation, we used participatory and provocation methods to inspire engagement with the theme and compare design concepts for sociality. Participants showed great passion for the town and its people, but also caution about publicly revealing even basic information, because of anticipated local consequences. They preferred an indirect approach. We use these insights to analyze “place” and discuss the specifics of designing for sociality in challenging contexts.
Funding
Flexible Dwellings for Extended Living; AHRC; AH/J007153/1
Digital Economy’s Communities and Culture Network+; EPSRC; EP/K003585/1
History
Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Accepted version
Journal
Designing Interactive SystemsPublisher
ACMExternal DOI
Event name
DIS 2017 Designing Interactive SystemsEvent location
Edinburgh, UKEvent type
conferenceEvent date
10-14 June 2017ISBN
978145034922Department affiliated with
- Informatics Publications
Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2017-05-11First Open Access (FOA) Date
2017-05-11First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2017-05-10Usage metrics
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