Hiking Hacks

Abstract

This paper describes a methodology for conducting interaction design research workshops within wilderness locations. In biological field expeditions, scientists travel to areas with minimal infrastructure to conduct research in environments featuring unique, naturalistic interactions. Digital interaction design is growingly important to field biologists as a way to develop new forms of scientific exploration and experimentation. Ideally field biologists would create their own interactive, scientific tools based upon their developing research questions. In practice, however, time and training constraints mean design is typically outsourced to specialized practitioners in dedicated laboratories. The Hiking Hack model unites biologists and designers in collaborative, outdoor workshops. Hiking Hacks combine experiences and techniques from biological expeditions with Research Through Design methodologies. This model has been refined and analyzed throughout several Hiking Hack expeditions. The result is an adaptable workshop structure considering gear, practices, and syllabi for exploring interaction design situated within wild environments.