Week 2 Reflection

Week 2

Current Project Status: Whakariterite Phase (Preparation of Crew)

I will use the Integrated Reflective Cycle framework (Bassot, 2013) to structure my reflection this week.

The Experience

This week I had a much clearer view of the path ahead. Last weeks creation of a timeline helped me start off strong knowing what I want to accomplish. I added key assignment dates in and got to work creating a system map of the current blue-green network process. 

I started the stakeholder characterisation process to help me understand who will expect what out of this project. This helped my think about how different elements and stakeholders of the blue-green network interlink. I drew out a system map that I hope will help me visualise problem areas.

[Figure 3: Contextual System Map]

I did some research into the stream that runs along UoA campus, and discovered it is called Waipapa Stream. Waipapa Stream has been the benefactor of a number of restoration projects, top down and bottom up. The University of Auckland transformed part of the site from a carpark space to a Marae that recognises and celebrates the cultural heritage of the waterway. The Kaipatiki Project have been working to regenerate areas around the stream which is community based, and supported by Waitematā Local Board. I think the space has so much potential, and I am excited to get ideas flowing. 

We also went on a walk around the city with Waitemata Board member, Alex, who showed us loads of interesting spaces and design challenges to consider. This made me feel inspired about the vast possibilities ahead. I received some really valuable feedback from Alex on paths to pursue, and I now have a good sense of direction.

[Figure 5: City Tour Reflection]

Reflection on action

From this week’s actions I felt really invigorated to move into the next Hautu Waka phase, which is Te Rapunga, venturing into the unknown.

I think my research into the Waipapa Stream was super valuable and has given me a lot to think about in terms of project direction. Using lots of tools to help my design process made me feel productive, but I think I also need to take a step back and reflect on the learnings from those before diving into the deep end. For example, with my Stakeholder characterisation I haven’t had the chance to consult anyone, which I feel is important to avoiding stereotyping and getting conclusive personas. 

Theory

I have learnt that I benefit from to do lists and a challenge that excites me. I went into this week feeling really stressed about the amount of work I wanted to achieve. These ambitious targets overwhelmed me for a bit, but once I started ticking them off it became really fun to be back in the zone, doing what I love. I think something that is important about being a designer is having a passion for what you do.

Preparation

Next week I will approach my tasks with a more open mind, and be willing to divert from the toolkits to dive down tangents that might prove insightful. I will continue to list out what I need done, since that worked well for my work style. In future I can consider involving more discussion with my peers into my research process so that the choices I make are more informed and situated in real world contexts. 

I found the tour around the City with Alex quite eye opening, and I think I would really benefit from taking a look around the area where the Waipapa Stream runs next week. I hope that this will allow me to identify aspects to consider that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Bassot, B. (2013). The Reflective Journal. Basingstoke: Palgrave