The Design Process of Academic Activities Opened to Citizens

- Designing "As It Is"-, A Case Report on 2016 Annual Conference of The First Branch of JSSD

Abstract

Research and inquiry exploring design that supports people and society as a whole is embracing technological innovation and diversity within specialized fields while reaching new levels of development. However, there are few spaces where research ideas and knowledge can be shared with the public. Particularly in the provinces, where population shrinking is transforming the social structure, there is a need for knowledge of design research and inquiry that gives back to the local community in more direct ways. This is why the authors examined the current state of conferences where experts in design research and inquiry can share research ideas with the public, holding a conference of the 1st branch of JSSD in Hachinohe, Aomori in October 2016. The conference included an oral presentation at Kushihiki Hachiman-gu Shrine, with posters displayed at the Kanhana Quay morning market in an effort to gradually open up academic conferences to the public while involving the local culture. This paper evaluates efforts to open up the insular researcher community to the public-creating a shared space for mutual exchange of knowledge between citizens and students, researchers and members of the community-and consider the impact of a series of design activities on participants.