This document contains Mark Holuka's responses to discussion questions for an American Diversity and Design course. It includes a brief introduction where Mark discusses how design impacts everyone's lives and environment. The document then contains Mark's responses to several prompts, discussing topics like innovations in the US, bike lane design, communication through hats, and the impacts of industrialization. For each response, Mark provides analysis of the design topic and how it relates to diversity and inclusion, citing relevant sources.

1. Mark Holuka
Project 3 Revision Threads 1-14
ARC 211 Spring 2017

2. Profile page:
Hello all I am Mark Holuka, a current University at Buffalo student
enrolled in the Spring 2017 ARC 211, American Diversity and Design.
This course enforced the important impact that design plays in the lives
of everyone, everyday. Despite a person’s current condition, the design
of their environment effects the way they feel, act, and communicate.
Effective design can not be created just to please the majority. When
individuals in a community suffer, the community as a whole is unable
to thrive to its maximum capabilities. So when individuals of a
community suffer the community as a whole suffers.
I hope that you guys enjoy the work gathered through this class as well
as the critical issues it brings to light.
The following pages document my responses to the online discussion
questions in the Spring 2017 version of ARC 211 American Diversity
and Design at the University at Buffalo – State University of New York.

3. http://www.anc2c.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/3d-printers.jpg
Response to “What is Design”
The author opened her chapter with the example of Ying Zheng, the ruler of
the Qin empire, one of the most powerful and enduring empires I the history of
China. She explained how design innovation contributed to Ying Zheng’s
success. For example, in the development of weaponry, he resolved many
problems by standardizing parts, and this single innovation gave his armies
great advantage over other armies.
For this discussion, let’s move away from 246 B.C. China, and into the U.S.
Describe an innovation or invention (can be current or historical) that gave
advantage to a group of people in the U.S. or to the population as a whole.
What were the social impacts of this innovation? Were any groups negatively
impacted by this innovation? For example, the telegraph, developed and
patented in the United States in 1837 by Samuel Morse, permitted people and
commerce to transmit messages across both continents and oceans almost
instantly, with widespread social and economic impacts. This heightened
communication speed allowed business persons to make decisions with up-to-
date information, often resulting in big profits. Those without access had to
rely on outdated information, which put them at a disadvantage.
First invented in 1983 by Chuck Hull, an American inventor, the 3D
printer has become very popular now a day with a wide variety of new
uses. 3D printing gives people at home access to create prosthetics,
toys, surgical implants, furniture, firearms, and much more. Having the
ability to create customized products for almost any need provides
unlimited possibilities to users. Some even create their own
clothes. New technologies even allow some 3D printer to produce edible
food. This can open the possibility for astronauts to have this in their
space stations for it takes up less space and ingredients don't spoil
easily. Unfortunately 3D printers aren't cheap yet, although actually
printing the objects isn't costly, and therefore is not readily available to
the masses yet. Another disadvantage includes the accessibility of
cheap unregistered firearms to unpermitted users.
1
Ponsford, Matthew and Glass, Nick. “The Night I Invented 3d
Printing”. CNN,
<http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/13/tech/innovation/the-night-i-
invented-3d-printing-chuck-hall/>. Accessed on April 20, 2017.

4. https://laecovillage.files.wordpress.com/2011/11/spring-11nov20-
2378-crop.jpg
Response to “Introduction”
The editors state that “diverse participation in the design process, from both
professionals and public citizens alike, yields more equitable results.” This
makes sense, but typically has not been the case. Nonetheless, many
marginalized groups have impacted design in ways that have changed our
visual and physical worlds as well as our systems, policies, and institutions.
For example, in the 1960s, disability rights advocates designed media
events to raise awareness about barriers in the physical environment. They
persisted with their efforts for decades, and, finally, in 1990, the Americans
with Disabilities Act became law. It mandated accessibility in public
accommodations such as restaurants and stores, public transportation,
communication, and other areas of public life. This dramatically changed
our physical environment (from curb cuts to ramps to automatic doors) and
the results made public life more equitable.
Now it’s your turn. Describe a design that was impacted by a diversity
group. How and why did it change form and/or circumstances? (Note that a
design can be anything requiring planning and development prior to the
production of an action, system, visual, material object, or environment.
Also, keep in mind that, for our purposes, a diversity group is a group of
individuals who are underrepresented in society in some way—children,
older adults, the economically disadvantaged, those with cognitive
disabilities, etc.)
Designated biking lanes are being implemented in a variety of
different communities and settings. Where once the minority class, the
cyclist, rode on the side walks and streets obstructing traffic or
endangering pedestrians. They now ride on designated biking lanes
where only cyclist can ride without interfering with traffic or others.
Although mainly seen as a safety precaution, the bike lane provides
commuters with an environment friendly low cost transportation option
while also cutting down original cycling travel time significantly.
1.Matthews, Kevin. “5 reasons We Need to add More Bike Lanes”.
Care2. <http://www.care2.com/causes/5-reasons-we-need-to-add-more-
bike-lanes.html>. Accessed on April 25, 2017.

5. http://media.npr.org/assets/img/2017/01/21/gettyimages-
632317268_custom-89f9e18d3ec24b3661526645a5cf7ee86c822b0a-
s900-c85.jpg
Response to Articles on Hats as Communication Design
Typically, we do not think of hats as elements of mass media or social
media. However, the two hats (red and pink) discussed in the articles
certainly have taken on that role. Why are the two hats (red and pink)
mentioned in the articles vehicles of communication design? What
meanings do each of the two hats carry? In terms of communication
design, how are they similar? And how are they different from one
another?
Although only one of the hats had writing on it, both hats had a
clear message to all that laid eyes on it. By its bold red and white
letters that stand out to be easily read and noticed, Trump's "Make
America Great Again" is designed for a person who isn't shy about
their support for president Trump. For starters the bold red color
is vibrant and attracts the attention of many. It also has simple
Times New Roman font which clearly relays the message without
any added flair. It's trucker cap style makes it more likely to be
worn by a working class member of society and not a
privileged one such as Trump. By design the trump hat sends the
message that by being bold direct and simple, trump can make
America great again. The pink hat designed as a 'pussy' cat is also
very vibrant in color to attract attention, but is deliberately a
feminine color for it's primary market is women who are upset
with Trump's verbal remarks that slandered their gender. This hat
uses its shape rather than written words to remind viewers of
Trump's denounced remark "grab them by the pussies". This
message is used to protest Trumps crude ideology against
equality.
1.“FAQ”. Pussyhat Project.
<https://www.pussyhatproject.com/faq/ >. Accessed on May 1, 2017.

6. https://static.independent.co.uk/s3fs-
public/styles/article_small/public/thumbnails/image/2017/02/03/14/a
nja-loven-nigeria-boy-composite.jpg
Response to Media/Society
Where would you place the images shown in Photos That Changed the
World into Croteau and Hoynes' diagram entitled “Model of Media and
the Social World”? Identify a mass mediaphotograph taken in your own
lifetime that has served as an icon of an event. (Feel free to add an
attachment.) What roles does this photo play in the communication of
the event?
The photos showed during this TED talk were examples of
media messages or products. Almost all of these photos were
showed to the public without the use of Internet by
magazines, newspapers, and television. The mass media
photograph from my generation (link at bottom) which I
chose is one which a white woman with blonde hair is
squatting down to feed a malnourished African boy water
from her bottle. This malnourished boy was left for dead by
his family for they believed him to be a witch. Not only does
this image shed light on the serious issue of famine in third
world countries like Africa, but it also sheds light on the
radical ideals of some of these countries and how they can
hurt humanity. Through social media and the publication of
this photo, the woman, Anja Ringgren Loven,
founded an organization called the African Children's Aid
Education and Development Foundation which helps children
who have been labeled as witches.
1.Tolj, Brianne. DailyMail.
<http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-
3447812/Nigerian-child-neglected-starved-called-
witch.html>. Accessed April 20, 2017

7. Response to IDEA Awards and Cradle to Cradle Video
Which of the 2016 IDEA Gold Award products seems to defy the
Cradle-to-Cradle concept developed by architect William McDonough
and chemist Dr. Michael Braungart? How does this product resist or
disregard the concept? Provide an example any products that
embraces Cradle-to-Cradle design? Please describe and cite your source.
The BoneAid is a revolutionary new tool in the medical
world. It is a versatile fraction fixation board which can be
used on multiple joints and bones on different sized
patients. This is far better than the previous model which
requires specific boards for specifics injuries and people. It
most certainly utilizing the reduce reuse recycle method for
its versatility cuts the need for manufacturing specific fixation
boards, but this is still not "100% good" and does not display
the cradle to cradle method for it isn't composed of materials
that can be reused for many purposes. One invention which is
an excellent example of a cradle to cradle invention is the
Yibu. The Yibu is an interactive children's toy which
encourages children to make positive impacts on the
environment and the world around them. While it is not
100% made out of recyclable materials because it has sensors
and intricate parts it still is partially recyclable. I still
consider this to be a cradle to cradle invention for it will
spread a very important environmental message to future
generations causing a greener and more reusable future.
1.Smith, Nicola J. "Yibu Play Experience." Industrial Designers Society of
America - IDSA. <http://www.idsa.org/awards/idea/childrens-products/yibu-
play-experience>. Accessed February 16, 2017.
2.Wang, Yu Chi. "BoneAid". Industrial Designers Society of America - IDSA.
<http://www.idsa.org/awards/idea/student-designs/boneaid>. Accessed
February 15 Feb. 2017.
*Pictures from same source

8. http://www.jidet.com/system/html/ligne-tolerie-c68b9f11.png
Response to “Idustrial Design” and “The Incredible
Inventions of Intuitive AI
In his chapter on industrial design (written in 1987), historian John
Heskett claims that the methods of mass production introduced by
Henry Ford in the U.S. involved new concepts of the standardization
and integration of the production line that were adopted across the
world. With Ford’s method, work could be completed by relatively
unskilled workers; it was more efficient and with this method,
products were made more quickly and cheaply than previously
possible. What were some of the social consequences of Ford’s production
line? In other words, how did this system change our U.S. society? Do any
of those changes remain with us today? Now consider Maurice Conti’s
TED Talk, and the predictions he makes about production. How do
you think manufacturing processes will change in the next twenty years?
How do you think these changes will affect our U.S. society?
The implementation of production line eliminated the need for skilled
workers giving arise to an abundance of new job opportunities. This
really strengthened the capitalist structure of society back then. It
lowered the unemployment rate and created more American made goods
while also lowering the overall coast and adding interchangeable parts
for easy fixing. Unfortunately, not all of industrialization social changes
were as positive these. Eliminating the demand for skilled workers
lowered the importance of education and lead to a large amount of child
workers. It also brought about a rigid 9-5 repetitive schedule with little
breaks and further divided the lower and upper class. Within the next
20 years I predict that society will move man away from tedious
repetitive work and give it to robots to complete. All unskilled jobs will
be switched to robotics. This will lessen the demand for unskilled jobs
and increase it for skilled jobs such as consultants and electrical
engineers. Society will be forced to live in a less competitive cut
throat business world.
Edelstein, Alex. “Positive and Negative Effects of the Industrial Revolution”.
<https://prezi.com/deaekqfpidou/positive-and-negative-effects-of-the-industrial-
revolution/>. Acessed April 15, 2017

9. 1. http://architecturerichmond.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/img_280521.jpg
2. http://www.mascontext.com/wp-
content/uploads/2012/12/16_vertical_urban_factory_04.jpg
Response to All Module 4 Materials
Your readings and viewings this week present different ways of
thinking about architecture. Mies Van der Rohe describes architecture
as “The will of the epoch translated into space.” Andrew Ballantyne
describes architecture as the background for life. Jeanne Gang describes
it as the act of building relationships. All agree that architecture can
change based on context and culture. Choose two works of architecture
from any of your materials this week—one with sensibilities about the
past and one with sensibilities about the present and/or future. How do
each of these buildings either reflect or challenge their cultural contexts?
The Ford Factory design by Albert Khan was way ahead of its time and
is a work that is sensible to the present and future. Its reinforced
concrete allowed for huge windows which let in plenty of sunlight. This
cut down electrical cost slightly and were also able to open allowing
fresh air in improving air quality and working conditions. Furthermore,
its one floor design eliminated unnecessary moving of products,
improving efficiency. The typical factory at this time were multi-
floored, with no natural light providing stuffy working condition that
were less efficient and posed fire hazards.
A design that reflects sensibilities about the past is the Virginia State
Capital building. This building was designed by Thomas Jefferson as a
way to break away from British Georgian architectures. Modeled after
the Maison Caree Jefferson took a design from the past to deliver a clear
message to his viewers.
Although Jefferson did take the design that was named after the Kind of
Britain at the time, he did change it in order to break away from this
architecture and culture. He simplified the columns and overheads and
took back to a design used in more ancient times. He wanted to show
his viewers that he was not like the British empire although pieces of
their history might be linked.

10. https://cdn.psychologytoday.com/sites/default/files/styles/image-
article_inline_full/public/field_blog_entry_images/DavidShankbone_Wikimedia%20C
ommons_Central%20Park.jpg?itok=WiAjSKBA
Response to Ballantyne and Zumthor Aricles
Andrew Ballantyne and Peter Zumthor present ideas about architecture
that seem to value the sensorial and material elements of life. How are
Ballantyne’s and Zumthor’s viewpoints on architecture alike? More
importantly, how do they differ?
Both Andrew Ballantyne and Peter Zumthor have distinct ideas about
construction and design that value the sensorial and material
elements. They both presented their ideas powerfully displaying the
importance of design and its impact and origins. This idea show some
similarities and differences. On one hand Ballantyne and Zumthor both
believe construction design to be a beautiful art form that captures the
viewers’ attention. They both believed that this art can communicate to
viewers through either memories or what it represented. On the other
hand, Ballantyne's and Zumthor's ideas differed on the origin of design
itself. Ballantyne believed that design comes from instinct just how
many animals had to develop some sort of structure
for shelter and survival. Ballantyne believed that design arose from
emotion. He thought of it as an art that arises from emotion made to
provoke some sort of emotion in the viewer.
Ballanytne most definitely stresses the importance of functionality over
aesthetics, but still says that the appearance of design matters for impact
and impression. He states that "aesthetics can allow us to value the
things about a building that matter" especially at first glance like a
tourist.

11. https://thedinoffschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/community.jpg
Response to Pruitt Igoe Project, Talen and Larson
Imagine that you are part of a urban planning and design firm working
with Emily Talen (author of “Design That Enables Diversity”) and Kent
Larson (who gave the TED Talk "Brilliant Designs to Fit More People
In Every City"The thee of you have been tasked with developing a plan
to rebuild Pruitt Igoe in St. Louis. City officials told the three of you
that that they want to do it right this time. Identify three strategies for
rebuilding Pruitt Igoe in ways that promise to be more successful.
What would Talen do? What would Larson do? What would you
do? How would your strategies differ from those of the original
urban planners/designers of the project? Why would your strategies
be more effective?
The Pruitt Igoe unfortunately is a prime example of poor
design. Through its poor planning, it was isolated from the city,
promoted extreme segregation, and was not intended to be up
kept well. Kent Larson would be the perfect person to tackle the
isolation problem. He strongly believes that living courters should be
connected to a network of commodities needed for everyday
life. Making people at least 20 minutes from essential stores. Larson
would do this by implementing a tram that connected the Pruitt Igoe to
the nearest metro or public transport. He would also try to promote
local shops to emerge near the community. In order to tackle the
segregation in this community and remodel it to become more diverse,
Talen would be the perfect designer. Talen focuses on the importance
of cultural diversity in a community’s success. I believe she would
design some kind of recreational center where the community could get
together and do activities. This could also have a pool and poker area. I
would try to further the integration of cultures by creating a man made
lake with a park. This would provide a family friendly community area
for people to get together and socialize further strengthening their sense
of community.
Jerpi, Laura. “Parks and Recreation Center Bring Communities Together”.
SouthSource. <http://source.southuniversity.edu/parks-and-recreation-centers-bring-
communities-together-59072.aspx>. Accessed April 21, 2017.

12. http://www.lifootcare.com/images/map_of_new_hyde_park_ny.jpg
Response to Levy Article
John Levy’s article, “An Overview: The Need for Planning,”
discussed ways in which planning can determine the
characteristics of a place. For example, some smaller towns
restrict the heights of buildings to maintain a certain scale. How
did planning define the character of the place in which you
grew up?
I grew up in the suburb town of New Hyde Park in Long
Island New York. The area
consists of hopes with basically all the same lot size, but that
are far different in design. Each home giving off its own
unique character being big, small, stone, wood, stucco, has a
porch, ect. This suburb is relatively quite and is only about 5
minutes from local stores and highway entrances. With many
schools nearby it is an ideal home for larger family's that have
workers that commute.

13. http://library.buffalo.edu/maps/img/olmstedbuffalonorth.jpg
Response to F.L Olmstead
Displaying his plan at the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia
Frederick Law Olmsted stated that "Buffalo is the best planned city, as
to its streets, public places, and grounds, in the United States, if not in
the world." What was the basis for this claim? Would Olmsted still
make that claim today? Why or why not?
Frederick Law Olmsted was a very proud man who might be
considered a bit arrogant. He considered his design for the layout
of Buffalo to be superior to any in the world. Though slightly
arrogant, Olmsted did bring many unique ideas about city planning
to Buffalo during his time. Olmsted designed a system of
interconnecting parks and a street plan that radiated with the
natural beauty of Buffalo. This network consisted of three parks
that were seamlessly connected to give six miles of area for its
community. The design was so one could walk along the park
with great views of greenery without ever having the feeling of
leaving it. Today Olmsted's vision does not hold true. There is a
heavy focus on industry in buffalo now which caused for a lot of
the beautiful greenery to be replaced with an industrial concrete
jungle. There are now highways and roads obstructing Olmsted's
vision by polluting and replacing the natural beauty of Buffalo.
“Olmsted’s Legacy”. Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy.
<https://www.bfloparks.org/about/history/>.Accessed
March 20, 2017.

14. http://www.northhempsteadny.gov/filestorage/16253/16261/1
8952/18956/21046/ridderspond4.jpg
Response to Walter Hood’s Work
Identify something that should be memorialized either on UB's campus
or in your hometown. Imagine that you are the person who will oversee
this project, and that you are using Walter Hood's 'triad of
investigations' as your approach to the project. What would your
landscape intervention commemorate/memorialize? How will you use
Hood's 'triad of investigations' to design a new landscape intervention?
What do you imagine that the design will be?
One thing in my hometown that should be memorialized is a park
called Ridder's Pond just 3 minutes from my home. This park is
the heart of the community providing a fun safe haven for
families and friends to socialize and become a part of the
community. This park consists of a play area, a large pond that
can be fished, and a track. Due to harsh storms it has been closed
for periods of time because of fallen trees. I would utilize Hoods
triad and renovate this park by making a few small changes. First
I would have routine tree trimming to lessen the chances of trees
falling. Add more garbage’s because cleanliness is essential to its
aesthetics. Lastly I would add a small indoor rec center for
families to seek refuge from unexpected rain, too much sun, or
hunger. These renovations would slightly improve the park while
maintaining its historic features and community feel.

15. http://www.sltrib.com/csp/mediapool/sites/dt.common.streams.StreamServer.cls?STR
EAMOID=rya3b50ymwNshnOlrZ6g_s$daE2N3K4ZzOUsqbU5sYuDIyuMeuYhBQz
giff9gDxDWCsjLu883Ygn4B49Lvm9bPe2QeMKQdVeZmXF$9l$4uCZ8QDXhaHEp
3rvzXRJFdy0KqPHLoMevcTLo3h8xh70Y6N_U_CryOsw6FTOdKL_jpQ-
&CONTENTTYPE=image/jpeg
Response to the Brookes
The abolitionist poster, the Brookes, is an iconic image that often is included in
exhibits that explore issues of race and power. It was commissioned by Thomas
Clarkson in 1788, and the Committee of the Abolition of Slavery used it to inform
and shock the public. While some consider the poster as an important component
of the abolitionist campaign, it recently “has been strongly criticized by some
individuals and groups of African heritage as providing a very limited view of the
history of the transatlantic slave trade, resistance and abolition (Hudson 2007).”
The lesson here is that how a viewer sees an image is dependent upon his/her
social, economic, and cultural position. Keeping this in mind, find another iconic
graphic that addresses racial issues and post it for others in your group to
view. (Add it to your response by clicking on the picture in the tools section.
Do not add it as an attachment that needs to be opened.) How do you interpret the
graphic? What is its meaning? Now imagine that someone from a racial and
cultural background different than your own is looking at the same graphic.
Briefly describe this person. How might s/he interpret its meaning? How might
this differ from your interpretation? What are the possible reasons for these
differences?
I decided to show an iconic picture of Jackie Robinson holding a bat with an
opponent. This is an amazing photo because it perfectly shows that attitude of
the time period. You can see the pure dislike in the white ball player’s eyes as
he has to just hold a bat next to Jackie Robinson, while Robinson has a grin
filled with confidence. This picture is taken during the times when segregation
between blacks and white was beginning to end but that didn't mean that there
wasn't still anger and hatred between both ethnicities at this time. To me this
picture is extremely powerful and iconic of all ethnicities being treated as
equal to the public eye. Jackie Robinson proved through hard work that
ethnicity only effects how you appear not your talents or your capabilities. To
someone with a less idealistic mindset they might view this same exact image
completely differently. They might see I as a reminder of how a minority had
to endure much hardship and prove to be more than capable to receive the
same privilege as a normal man of society. Jackie Robinson was often
threatened and harassed constantly just for the color of his skin, but proved
that to create great change in the world you have to go to great lengths. The
way this image is viewed is determined by the upbringing of the individual
viewing it. An idealist who believes everyone is equal despite ethnicity with
take on the first view. While someone, perhaps from a poor African American
family faced with many hardships, most likely will take on the second opinion.
Tracy, Marc. “69 Years Later, Philadelphia Apologizes to Jackie Robinson”.
The New York Times.
<https://www.nytimes.com/2016/04/15/sports/baseball/philadelphia-
apologizes-to-jackie-robinson.html>.Acessed April 28, 2017

16. http://cdn.hercampus.com/s3fs-public/2016/01/17/MLK2014-events.jpg
Response to Chales Davis and equityXdesign
Critique either the MLK Memorial or the National Museum
of African American History and Culture
using equityXdesign’s core beliefs and/or design principles.
The National Museum of African American History and
Culture is a museum made to show the hardship African
American communities had to overcome in order to create
impactful acts that changed our world. Firstly, the museum
does not completely comply with EquityXDesign's belief of
historical context. By not focusing much on the hardships
endured by African Americans in early America and even
leaving many out mostly focusing on the outcomes and
successes, the museum failed to depict enough historical
content. Although this may not be the most historically
accurate approach it does ensure EquityXDesign's product
belief for it focuses on the positive outcomes of the African
American community.

17. https://s-media-cache-
ak0.pinimg.com/736x/61/ff/1e/61ff1e8dac0004f278743dbca2152f48.jpg
Response to “Landscape Stories” Chapter
First, let’s start with your own home. Describe a place in your home (indoors
and/or outdoors) that you think of as representative of your own ethnic
background and discuss why you consider this place to be ‘ethnic’. –OR--
Describe an object in your home that you think of as representative of your
ethnic background and discuss why this object is considered to be ‘ethnic’. (If
possible, add photo/s.) Is this object or place something that you will keep or
continue when you establish your own home? Why or why not?
Now let’s move into your community. In “Landscape Stories,” the authors
show how landscape architects develop a historical narrative that sifts
through and interprets the culture and material of underrepresented groups.
Think about the community where you grew up. Describe and discuss any
evidence of cultural influences on the physical environment in your
community. If possible, describe evidence of the cultural influence of an
underrepresented group. (If possible, add photo/s.) Is this cultural influence
being acknowledged or preserved from future generations? Why or why not?
In the basement of my home there is a statue of a Trinacria on my
wall similar to the one about. This semi scary/strange design is the
symbol of Sicily, Italy and is even on the Sicilian flag. This symbol
hangs in my house to remind my family of our ancestors on our
mother’
s side and of the family we still have residing in Sicily. This symbol
is believed by my mom to warn off evil in the house and bring good
luck. I won't be having superstitious symbols in my house that
originated from the 18th century. Instead I will keep pictures and
use objects such as food ingredients to remind myself of my ties to
Sicily.
My neighborhood is quite diverse fortunately and doesn't in my
opinion have an ethnic dominance in design. One of the
neighboring communities, Floral Park, shows many signs of Irish
influence. Everything from authentic Irish pubs to Irish specific
stores this community lets its Irish pride shine bright. This doesn't
allow for many diverse restaurant and shops of other ethnicities, but
proves to be an effective method to preserve and expand their
Irish culture rich community.
Trinacria. Wikipedia. <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trinacria>.
Accessed May 1, 2017.

18. http://prod.static.redskins.clubs.nfl.com/nfl-assets/img/gbl-ico-
team/WAS/logos/home/large.png
http://www.atomicmall.com/cpic/35/36291_1473_notre-dame-
fighting-irish-cross-stitch-pattern-look.jpg
Response to Article on Sports Branding
Recent controversies about sports branding focus on
ethnicity. The Washington Redskins team is just one example
of the larger controversy, but it receives the most public
attention due to the name itself being defined as derogatory or
insulting in modern dictionaries, and the prominence of the
team representing the nation’s capital. Should sports team
branding designers use ethnic references (Fighting Irish,
Boston Celtics, Atlanta Braves, etc.)? Why? Why not? What
are some of the complexities of this issue?
I personally believe that the sports industry should not include any
sort of race or ethnicity to their designs for many reasons. For one
a sports team is meant to be the best by all means. This means
dominating and destroying their lesser opponents. By added
ethnicity to the design you are implying to the audience that that
teams represented ethnicity is either superior or inferior to others
not based off of skill but by appearance. Further more, the
majority of the audience for sports is families and young
children. Showing a difference of performance between different
ethnic design is not a message you want spreading to the youth of
the world. Unfortunately, sport teams are held as sacred by fans
and are unlikely to ever change based on adverse reactions from
non fans.

19. http://40.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m43fr80tcz1qes2rio1_1280.png
Response to “Visualizing Gender” Chapter
In their chapter “Communicating Gender,” Maya Ganesh and Gabi
Sobliye discuss two primary visual advocacy approaches: 1) get
the idea, and 2) stories in data. Find a new example of either of the
two visual advocacy approaches to gender issues.
First, identify the approach. Then explain how the designer uses
the approach to communicate a gender issue. Is the approach
effective in this example? Why or why not? How could this
graphic be improved?
This image is a perfect example of a "get the idea" visual. It
uses this powerful image to show what goes on in someone
like a transsexual's head when they are forced to use the
public restroom. This artist shows the individual from the
back with unisex clothing and a unisex hair style to make
impossible for the viewer to identify it as a boy or girl. This
image really just focuses on the individual itself though and
doesn't add any other components of that society to further
strengthen the point. Perhaps if there were a police officer
ready to take the person to prison or another individual staring
in disgust, the image would have a stronger message.

20. http://www.mafamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/no-bathroom-bill.png
Response to Bathroom Bill
Last year, North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory signed into law a bill that
repealed local LGBT anti-discrimination laws, and required people to use the
bathroom that corresponded with the biological gender written on their birth
certificates. This prompted massive backlash. McCrory stated, “You know, we
all have to make adjustments in life. And we’ve had the proper etiquette
situation for decades in our country, and all of a sudden through political
correctness we’re throwing away basic etiquette.” Just this past Thursday, the
North Carolina General Assembly passed a bill to repeal the law while placing
a moratorium on nondiscrimination measures.
Should people be required to use the bathroom that corresponds with the
biological gender written on their birth certificate? State why AND state why
not. In other words, to receive full credit for this question, you need to present
an argument for both sides of the issue. As a designer, how would you solve
this gender dilemma?
Lately, a lot of light has been shed on gender identification by the
news and social media. Organizations are refuting the original idea
that there are only two genders claiming that there can even been
more than ten. These organizations do not believe that gender is
genetically determined, but rather determined by the individual. I
personally do not side with these organizations, but this becomes a
huge issue when dealing with public restrooms. Allowing anyone to
use the bathroom they desired despite their genetic identification
provides a few concerns to the community. For one it can just make
others uncomfortable. Going to the bathroom is a private manner
and for some being in the presence of the opposite gender can make
this troublesome. A more serious issue would be the safety of
women and children. It is far more common for women to go to the
restrooms with their baby or infant than a man. The restroom is a
quite isolated place where one can be taken advantage of without
direct intervention from citizens or law enforcement. As a designer I
would create individual bathrooms in public areas without much
human traffic. This would eliminate comfortably and safety issues
but could lead to new ones such as homeless living and drug use. In
areas of high traffic where one bathroom wouldn't be sufficient, I
would keep the traditional boys and girls room and risk someone
being uncomfortable rather than unsafe.
“What is the Bathroom Bill?”. No Bathroom
Bill.<http://nobathroombill.com/frequently-asked-questions/>.
Accessed April 30, 2017.

21. http://meronbareket.com/wp-
content/uploads/2014/10/entrepreneur-held-back.jpg
Response to People Like Us
After almost two decades of public assistance, Tammy Crabtree took
herself and her family off the welfare rolls. But her job cleaning
bathrooms at a local Burger King barely paid the bills. Crabtree wanted
to do better and hopes to go to college and become a teacher.
Imagine this scenario. You are a designer who works at the well-known
firm, iPD (Integrated Planning and Design). You work on a team with
planners, urban designers, policy designers, architects, and social
designers. You have been tasked to develop/design a way for Tammy
Crabtree and her family (and others with situations similar to Tammy’s)
to move themselves out of poverty. What will your team to do to help
Tammy and her family achieve their goals? What approach will your
team take to address this difficult problem?
This has been a very difficult task that our country has been trying to
deal with for quite some time. I personally don't believe that a
minimum wage job is enough to live comfortably in most areas of
the USA. To help those of minimum wage I would try to implement
more public transportation and do my best to make it free for
locals. This would cut down their cost of living substantially. I
would also possibly offer incentive to those with cars to car pool with
less fortunate. Finally, I would try to make construction in that area
on the rise. This bring about many different classes of jobs both long
and short term which can benefit a community in many ways.

22. 1.https://www.axis.com/sites/default/files/pictures/customer_stories/city_of_buffal
o_171.jpg
2.https://www.northcountrypublicradio.org/news/images/homeless_jesus.jp
g
Response to Hidden Ways
Author Steven Flusty categorized five types of disciplinary architecture
that perpetuate what he calls urban spatial injustice: 1) stealthy, 2)
slippery, 3) crusty, 4) prickly, and 5) jittery. Go out into the city of
Buffalo, and find/photograph two examples from the list of five.
Identify what type of space you’ve photographed and why it might
discriminate against a specific population. Identify the location where
you took the photograph, and make certain that you are in at least one
of the two photographs.
This first image I took was a close up of a police street camera used
to ensure safety on a buffalo street corner right by MLK Jr.
park. This is a nicer part of the area that draws people to it with its
nice park, the buffalo museum of science, many restaurants, and
other attractions. In order to prevent crime with fear and ensure
street criminal are caught, this town has cameras just like these on
almost every street corner on about a 10 block radius. This is a
picture perfect, no pun intended, example of a jittery space. In this
area there is a constant presence of the law watching you which most
definitely encourages people to be more law abiding.
This second image is of a prickly space as it is a bench mostly
occupied by a statue only allowing one functional seat and can not be
occupied comfortably. This bench is located at Cathedral Park in
downtown buffalo and the statue is meant to signify Jesus. It's a
message that can be viewed controversially, but I find it ironic how a
message that could show how we mistreat the homeless
actually functions as an anti-homeless action, not allowing homeless
to sleep there
“Homeless Jesus Statue in Buffalo gets Unusual Response”. CBS.
< http://www.cbsnews.com/news/homeless-jesus-statue-in-
buffalo-gets-unusual-response/>. Accessed April 29, 2017.

23. https://cdn.gogetfunding.com/wp-
content/uploads/2013/09/30038/primary_image.jpg
Response to Enriquez Ted Talk “What Will Humans
Look Like in 100 Years?”
For this question, we will focus on Juan Enriquez’ Life Two
civilization, which alters fundamental aspects of the body. We are living
longer than ever before in human history. Enriquez argues that, because
of advances in bio-medical technology, the possibility of living to 120
years of age and beyond is quite possible for many of us in this D+D
class. Assuming that his assertion is accurate, how do you think
extended life spans will change our societies and built environments?
What new issues might designers face because of extended life spans?
The main concern that would arise would be overpopulation
forcing designers to utilize land more efficiently. Firstly, this
would mean the elimination of all parks and other lesser
important uninhabited areas. They would have to make all the
buildings in a town skyscrapers, but could implement parks on
certain floor for play and plant life are still essential to the
community. Car traffic would be almost impossible to deal with
in an extremely crowded city and most people would rely on
public transport. This would force designer to implement multi-
story train systems in order to deal with this demand. In reality
some of these trains would have to pass through
apartment building being quite noisy for residents. As far as
interior design who knows what will actually be in the future do
the ethical reasons. Upper class citizen may be able to purchase
enhanced prosthetics that work with objects in their smart homes
making task that are generally difficult for the elderly very easy.

24. http://nnimgt-a.akamaihd.net/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-
feed-data/38f194ab-3a3b-4f04-a594-
8f6edbe1e41e.JPG/r0_0_4608_3072_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg
Response to Carroll Article: “(Re)forming Regent Park:
When Policy Does Not Equal Practice”
The development of Regent Park is phased, and there are
several more phases to the project. What actions could be
taken to ensure more social integration for the older people
living in the ‘new and improved’ Regent Park?
Unfortunately, this design team thought they would be able to
fix all of the only community problems and make it "new and
improved" by isolating the elderly. They weren't aware of the
large impact this would have on the community as a whole. I
do agree that most elderly that spend most of their time
indoors would prefer a top floor room with a view, but this is
not universal. The truth is most elderly don't just vegetate all
day without leaving their homes and by putting them all on
the top floor it limited their accessibility to the outside world.
In order to integrate the elderly and keep the community more
whole they should add non-aggressive outdoor activity that
people of all ages can enjoy like shuffle board and chess.

25. https://lizleafloor.files.wordpress.com/2014/08/terminator.jpg
Response to Survey, FIXED, and Stelarc
In the film trailer FIXED, you were introduced to the dilemma of living
in a culture in which the “science-fiction of human enhancement” has
become almost a way of life, from prenatal genetic screening to bionic
body parts. In the video, “A Man with Three Ears” you are introduced to
an artist who is using current technology to move humans beyond their
current abilities. Last week, Juan Enriquez asked us if it is ethical to
evolve the human body. All of these videos suggest that the concept of
disability ‘as we know it’ could cease to exist in the future.
This leads us to this week’s discussion question:
What lessons do you think we should learn from history when thinking
about emerging enhancement technologies and reproductive
technologies? What are some of the possible consequences (both
positive and negative) of being able to design our bodies and the bodies
of our children? What ethical quandaries do these technologies pose?
Enhancing the human body is something that has fascinated nearly
everyone. There are virtually no limits seeming to satisfy people
with all different motives. One could be genetically modified before
birth in order to correct any genetic diseases. Or one could replace
his arm with a mechanical one with better reflexes and
superior strength and not to mention no fatigue. Or even further out
there, one could change his genetic make up in order to breath
underwater or even possibly fly. This all may sound amazing and
should be furthered researched despite ethical concern, but the truth
is if this technology would exist it will be very expensive and only
available to the wealthier people kind of like plastic surgery
today. This would give the wealthy an even larger advantage over
the lower class and further widen the gap. This could also cause
economic/social turmoil for employers may only want to hire
employees who have been enhanced and can work more efficiently.
Hix, Laura. “Modern Eugenics: Building a Better Person?”. Helix. <
https://helix.northwestern.edu/article/modern-eugenics-building-better-
person>. Accessed May 1, 2017.

26. 1. http://www.picnicfurniture.com/images/accord/i3.jpg
2. https://www.dero.com/wp-content/uploads/images/bike-parking-
guide/shelter.jpg
Response to PPT, Smithsonian, and Roy
For the Module 12 Thread 1, please select one of the seven universal
design principles, and post photographs that show both a positive and a
negative example of the principle. Then address the following question:
How do your examples empower or disempower various people?
Describe the specific features of the positive example and the specific
features of the negative example. Discuss ways that the positive
example could be even further improved.
This first image of a public picnic bench is a good example of flexible
use. Due to its height between bench and table, people of all sizes
can sit comfortably either by themselves or with others. One can sit
on it with his back against the table providing somewhat of a back
rest and offers easy accessibility if the person was getting up and
down a lot. The fact that it only has one leg in contact with the
ground allows for more room underneath for either storage or extra
leg room. At the heads of the table there are no benches allowing for
handicapped people to sit there at table height in their wheel
chair. This bench could be further improved to become even more
flexible by design if there were two swivel chairs on both sides with
back rest. This would allow for easy rotation for accessibility and
could even allow a wheel chair to fit in between no longer isolating
handicapped people the the heads of the table.
This second image of an enclosed bike rack is an example of a design
that is not flexible by principle. This rack is taking up a large
amount of space and not serving any other purpose besides keeping
your bike safe and dry. It has one purpose only with no room for
variation. An easy improvement to make to this design would be
adding a bench or two. This would give people a place to relax out of
the rain or sun, also giving more uses to the public area.
“The 7 Principles”. NDA. < http://universaldesign.ie/What-is-
Universal-Design/The-7-Principles/>. Accessed May 2,2017.

27. https://www.techworm.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Prevent-Being-Cheated-by-
Spyware-692x336.jpg
Response to Titicut Follies
The state of Massachusetts tried to ban the 1967 documentary Titicut
Follies, arguing that director Frederick Wiseman had violated the
patients’ rights by not getting written permission to film them. The case
went to court, and Wiseman argued that he had consent from their legal
guardian, the institution. After a judge ruled in favor of the state, the
legal appeals carried on for several years: in 1969, Massachusetts
allowed the film to be shown to doctors, lawyers, and health care
professionals; in 1991, a superior court judge ruled it could be released
for the “general public,” as privacy concerns were no longer at issue, so
many years later.
Should Wiseman have been allowed to film the residents of
Bridgewater Massachusetts Correctional Facility? Why or why not?
How might this film be of value to designers (communication
designers, product, designers, architects, interior designers,
planners, landscape designers, systems designers, and/or social
designers)? In other words, what might they gain from this film that
they could use in their work?
I believe the only way for this documentary to capture the true nature of
how patients were treated was by filming without the consent of the
individuals. I know it may sound unfair to put someone in a film
without their knowledge, but if the director informed the patients that
they were being filmed it would have altered their actions. The patients
would be self conscious of their interaction changing what they would
have originally done. Thus not showing the true nature of patient
treatment which was the purpose of the documentary. This film holds
value to designers and architects as well as health care
professionals. By showing the interactions between doctor and patient,
a designer would be able to create an environment that is less rigid and
more welcoming to patients. They would make it more open and fluid
and less structured and routine.

28. http://beyondlimitsmd.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/autism1.jpg
Response to PPT, The Architecture of Autism, Public Space
The Scenario: Imagine that you and your four children live in Amherst, New York in
a $650,000 home at the end of a cul-de-sac on the edge of a ten acre woods. The town
has purchased a one acre lot three houses away from yours, and plans to build a group
home for ten intellectually challenged adults.
As a resident of the neighborhood, would you support or oppose this proposal
and why?
You've learned additional information about the residents of the proposed group home
in your neighborhood. In 2013, three of the ten intended residents exhibited
challenging behaviors including screaming, public masturbation, repetitive rocking,
and echolalia (elective incontinence). However, these behaviors have not occurred
since then.
How would this change your opinion about the construction of the group home in
your neighborhood?
The residents in your neighborhood voted (14-3) to reject the town of Amherst’s
proposal to build a group home in the neighborhood. Town officials agreed that the
home would not be built in your neighborhood if you and your neighbors could
develop a workable alternative.
What are some possible solutions that would allow the residents of the home to be
provided with “the same basic human rights as the rest of the population”?
I personally believe that everyone is born with natural rights no matter
what their circumstance which entitles them to leave freely in a
community as long as they aren't causing others harm. Even if these
people require special assistance to perform a task they should be
allowed to try if that’s what they desire. No one should be exiled from a
community based on a situation they couldn't avoid. So I support this
proposal. The fact that a few of the children have had outbursts in the
past barely effects my opinion. These outbursts happened many years
ago and are not reoccurring things that need to be worried about. In the
rare event that there is an outburst, I would suggest that this home be
surrounded by a gate or wall. This is strictly for the safety of the
children for the community is by the woods where one can easy get lost.
I know its not always possible but perhaps it would be easiest if each
special needs child lived with they immediate family and those who are
less fortunate get integrated into a willing home. This would allow for
better individual care for each child providing a safer and more loving
environment for the kids.

29. http://www.notredamenhp.org/assets/images/NotreDameChurchb.jpg
Response to The Connection Between Religion and Urban Planning
by David Engwicht
Identify a place of worship with which you are somewhat familiar.
(If you are not familiar with any places of worship, do a bit of
research on one in your own city or town.) Show a photograph of
this religious structure. (You may use photographs from the web.)
What roles has this place served in the development of your
city/town? How has it influenced the design of the area around it?
How has its role changed over time? What roles could this place of
worship play in the future development of your city/town?
This image here is taken of the local roman catholic church in my
hometown neighborhood of New Hyde Park. This very large religious
structure was established in the year 1941 as the only one of its kind in
the community. Since it has been established, this church has been a
place of worship to thousands offering peace and salvation through
religious practice to believers. This structure has developed quite a bit
since 1941 and in turn helped develop the community as a
whole. Starting from 1950, Notre Dame Parish opened an elementary
school to children. This continued to grow the Christian community
around the area of the church. Now a days this church serves as a
platform for volunteer work such as food drives and clothing gatherings
and adds to the kind hearted community.
“History”. Notre Dame Roman Catholic Church.
<http://www.notredamenhp.org/indexXNo.htm>. accessed May 7,
2017.

30. http://www.dcmh.net/wp-content/uploads/6063122.jpg
Response to Prospects for the Future of Diversity and Design
At the beginning of this course, we discussed the idea that we are all
designers regardless of our profession or field of study. We’ve asked
some big questions along the way, and the conclusion section of our
textbook raises additional issues that require input from people who
might not consider themselves to be part of the formalized design
professions.
Think about your own major and/or future profession. What is the
biggest challenge, problem, or question that your field needs to
tackle right now? What do you plan to do to address this challenge,
problem, or question either as part of your studies or professional
life?
I am currently enrolled in pharmacy school and am looking to peruse a
career in the health care profession in my near future. Now a days the
major problem facing the pharmaceutical industry is providing a safe
comfortable establishment for patients to receive and be consoled on
their medication. The typical establishment that a patient normally
receives medication from is convenience like store with a small
specialized pharmacy section in the back. This brings a wide variety of
costumers in, not just patients looking for medication and in turn makes
the patient less comfortable and more rushed. By creating a pharmacy
that is smaller in size and only sells health care and pharmaceutical
products, it would provide a more intimate patient pharmacist
experience. This would allow for better patient care as well as a better
shopping experience.