This week’s first reading, A Brief Rant On The Future Of Interaction Design, made me realize something deeper about the things I do, and what everyone does every day. Starting by watching the video, I initially thought it was just about technology, and I found it interesting, especially with all the futuristic functions they included such as the window screen and others. What I didn’t notice or really think about was the fact that everything was done on screens, because that is our reality and something we do every day for almost everything. After reading the text, I started to realize how true this is, and how most of what I do happens through flat screens using my fingers, even for things that could be done physically, such as the reading example. I did agree with that point, that some things do not have to be done on a screen. However, I also thought about how people do not actually do everything through screens, as we still move, go outside, and use our bodies for different tasks. But since the author is talking about the future, I do agree that this should be considered so it does not reach a point where everything is done through a flat screen.
This week’s second reading, the responses to the brief rant, clarified many of the thoughts I had while reading, and also introduced aspects I had not considered, which made me go from partially agreeing to agreeing more with the author’s concern. I did think about the common idea that devices can be harmful, especially for children, but the responses helped me understand that while current technology is useful, it could become problematic if it becomes too dominant in the future. I also found the hologram example very helpful, as it made the main idea clearer, that technology should continue to develop, but in a way that is more interactive and three-dimensional, matching the environment we live in. Additionally, the quote by neuroscientist Matti Bergström about the effects of constant touchscreen use from a young age made me realize that this could become harmful if it reaches the future vision being discussed.
Both readings were interesting to read, especially because they address real situations and possible future developments. They made me think more about how we use screens in everyday life and how many things have already shifted to digital formats, such as borrowing books or using services that were once physical. I also thought about how it would be interesting and beneficial if future technologies included more physical interaction and engagement with the human body. This connects to the work we do in this class, where our Arduino projects involve physical interaction, while our p5 sketches are mostly screen-based using buttons and touchpads. Since our final project will combine both, I feel like that is a strong example of how technology can be improved by balancing physical interaction with screen-based systems.