Inspired by the article “Cultural Probes,” by Gaver, Dunne, and Pacenti, probes are a speculative method to draw out inspirational responses. For my probe, I wanted to explore my partner Jessica’s emotions and daily life. I created a series of tasks that required her to take pictures, draw, and map her current lifestyle.
The pictures were an important part of the probe because they can tell us a lot about what external factors are playing a role in the answer. Are they mostly taken during the day? Is there someone that makes multiple appearances? Are they mostly outside? Particular colors or vibes?
The drawings were included to get a sense of where her thoughts are. I set a time limit of 1 minute in order to try and get the first thought in her mind.
The map was insightful to me to see what types of places she prefers. Is she willing to go farther? Are they more populated places? Secluded? Free? Are they mostly food related?
The Probe
Take a picture of:
An activity that you wished you did daily, but don’t
A new routine you started after quarantine
What you do most of the day
The most important part of your day
How you are feeling
A meal
A secret
An accomplishment
An unique habit
Your favorite memory
On the map:
Place red dots where you have lived
Place a green dot on the top 5 favorite places you have visited
Place blue dots where you want to go
Draw the first thing that comes to mind when you see each word (less than 1 minute each):
Peace
Chaotic
Angry
joy
Fear
Guilt
Excitement
