Use an App Design tool (Adobe XD) to create an App that delivers an argument. This assignment may require some creative thinking to translate typical argument structure to be part of an app experience. There will be two key aspects:
1. Developing an argument. This part is reasonably straightforward. Most arguments are built around a structure of claims, reasons, and evidence. For instance, an argument like:
- We should regulate screen time for those under 18 years of age (Claim)
- Because Internet applications and social media are addicting (Reason)
- As shown by studies from brain researchers (Evidence)
Most arguments are more complex--perhaps using multiple reasons or sets of evidence, or exploring assumptions beneath Claims (e.g., society should regulate unhealthy behaviors). Arguments also often respond to opposing perspectives. You can add as many of these supporting moves as is helpful. At the same time, the gist of the assignment is to move an app user toward a certain conclusion. I can think of two possible approaches:
1. Straightforward: Map an argument onto app screens. Using a structure like that above, develop about a page of prose that offers a solid argument. Use the app design software to deliver the pieces of the argument as users move through the various app screens.
2. Subtle, show not tell argument: Use the interface and interactions of the App to deliver the take-away message associated with an argument. In this case, moving through the app should enact the claims being put forward. For instance, if you wanted to argue that social media creates a false sense of body image, you could design an app where users upload photos only to have them be radically manipulated to show the ways this manipulation takes place.
3. A game: You may be able to take more of a gaming approach. You can use the movement through the app screens to quiz viewers or otherwise guide them toward your argument.
1. Designing the app. Your application will be a prototype--i.e., not a fully developed app, but a set of visual and functional designs. To create the app, you will use the Adobe XD application of Creative Cloud.
Begin, by making sure you have a set of milestones and a work plan for the project. When ready, follow these steps:
You may want to begin by creating several low-fi prototypes using hand-creation materials--paper, pens, art products, etc. As you create sketches on paper, think concurrently about the argument. You might, for instance, design a screen that lists major airport delays if your app was meant to argue that we need to invest in infrastructure. Think as well about some of the advanced functionality that might be required--e.g., if you need some kind of biofeedback method to monitor someone's circadian rhythms or heart rate. The good news is, you don't have to develop that functionality; just sketch out what the screen would look like. Be sure to save the copies of your low-fi sketches or take photos of them so you can refer to and reflect on them later in your portfolio.
Next, explore the tutorials that are available with XD opening screen and several of the additional XD tutorials available from Adobe. The program is reasonably straightforward. You might also want to search the web for examples of XD app prototypes to get more ideas.
Next, compose your app using XD. You will most likely want to create a phone-sized app, but if you have a need to create a tablet or other size, that is fine.
As you work, you may find it helpful to explore some of the other options in Creative Cloud (e.g., PhotoShop) to develop icons, a logo, etc.
You will submit your application design on our web site using the App Design draft posting type by October 23rd.