Physical computing here is not really about using random sensors just because they look “cool” but TIGOE explains that physical computing allow us to create meaningful interactions. Just this idea of giving computers or devices a body to sense everything around and then be able to respond is fascinating, like the waving hand example where you can make music just from the movement of your hands, I wonder if I can try to create something like this using tinkercad. I honestly started thinking more about design and structure, specially focusing on how things were made and how important it is to design something where the action feels natural but at the same time connects to the purpose of the project.
I really liked reading about how artists do not need to explain everything to the audience because the creation and space should allow people experience it for themselves. This is also my favorite part about interactive media because it’s about feelings, experiences, perspective, and understanding. In my Understanding IM class I actually created a lot of different art projects related to specific modules which is why I love learning about IM through the artist perspective and the participants. At the same time while its better to just create the experience, I do tend to want to explain to people everything just because I really want them to understand, but even after my midterms I realize that there is no need for all that because sometimes the discovery is part of the experience.
Both readings connect a lot to working with Arduino and Tinkercad because they remind me that the goal is not just building a circuit that works, because I should look at the experience side of it. So when I use sensors, LEDs, buttons, or sounds, I always like asking myself why and how because this way I can remove myself from just being an artist and creator to the participant.