Background
Music encompasses a broad range of experiences form the passive to the active. To actively use many instruments a high level of dexterity and cognition is required. It can therefore be difficult for some sections of the community to fully engage with instruments which have been designed specifically for those with maximum physical dexterity. Inclusive design is an approach to problem solving which addresses issues for minority groups, such as those with physical disabilities, but does not exclude those who do not have difficulty.
The brief topic is called 'musical inclusion' and focuses on widening the opportunities of those who have difficulty in playing physical music instruments by proposing innovative concepts and utilising haptic devices. The categories for usability are
1. Neurological conditions
2. Moto-neorological conditions
3. Physical disability or acquired brain injury (natural or accidental)
Brief
The European Institute for Design and Disability begin their Stockholm Declaration 2004 with the phrase: "Good design enables, bad design disables". You are asked to select one of the usability categories and propose a completely new way of playing music for that category. As part of the project requirements you are required to work along side students in the BMus year 3 course and along with myself and Dr. Frank Lyons. You must email me if you wish to select this brief.
The Music department have a range of haptic senor devices to assist with making sounds in different ways. These methods may be integrated into physical hand held devices, wearable's or even larger environments. This project can be interpreted as either a 3D product design brief and/or a games design brief.
Some links which may be of assistance.
Music Links
Strategies for the Creation of Inclusive Programmes of Study (SCIPS)
Musical Therapy Association of British Columbia (MTABC)
Council for exceptional children
Living my Song- choosing an instrument (for disabilities)
