Device Shifting — Masters Thesis

Device Shifting—shift the behaviour of how a human relates to a device by either occupying it, lowering its level of required or possible engagement or transforming its input or output with a mass produceable accessory.

This research takes a critical design approach as defined by Anthony Dunne and Fiona Raby to explore our evolving interrelationships and interdependencies with devices.

Critical design uses speculative design proposals to challenge narrow assumptions, preconceptions and givens about the role products play in everyday life.

Accepting that our interrelationships and interdependencies will only intensify as we become more connected to each other and to cyberspace through devices, we will require a more intimate and humanly experience of connection.

The architected experience is a primary quality of modern life, prevalent in our home, ofice, transportation and social environments. Much of this experience is driven by computing and today’s computing is everywhere—but nowhere to be seen. The world is already filled with well over 30 computer chips for every man, woman, and child on the planet.

The internet has shaped and been shaped by four devices since it gained momentum in the 1990s – the mobile/smartphone, portable computer, digital camera and MP3 player.

They have blurred the boundaries between public and private spaces, ofice and home environments, real and cyberspaces and shifted the value, creation and distribution of media.