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Graduates
Tim Shih
BS in Interaction Design — Interaction DesignCourse:
ArtCenter Berlin Studio 1
Faculty:
Robert Ball
Term:
2024 Summer
Öko Echo: Reimagining Eco-interactions
Berlin taught me that culture is a living, breathing system of expression and observation. As we pivot toward a net-zero future by 2050, it is no longer enough for governments to simply set limits. We need a cultural paradigm shift. Bridging the gap between European urban insights and global climate action, my work investigates the 'Impact Scalability' of environmental awareness—turning individual motivation into a cross-national movement.
Process:
Berlin challenged my perception of the 'Smart City.' Instead of high-tech apathy, I found a city defined by approachable complexity. Whether it was the effortless transportation or the beer-garden culture, the distance between people felt refreshingly short. This observation sparked my investigation: How does an environment influence habit? By interviewing those who call Berlin home, I began translating these cultural nuances into design opportunities for meaningful human engagement.
Learning Outcomes:
During the design process, I encountered a gap between theory and reality. For instance, tracking users' carbon footprints 24/7 triggers significant privacy concerns. Moreover, the cost and practical feasibility of a government-led project remain major hurdles.
Project Website: