This week I wanted to focus on developing an understanding of different people's views on their loneliness. I think it is important to have more background before I officially start creating 'solutions' for my brief so that I can focus on the needs and wants of people.
To start the week, I had a project identification presentation to share my initial research into the topic of loneliness and my starting point of mental health. I presented my idea of creating a 'companion' for those who feel lonely, using the term 'companion' as it sounds more human and friendly. I was asked whether or not I thought my self-written brief was too narrow, at this point I do not believe it is, I think it gives me an area to focus. However I know I may need to revisit and tweak to ensure that I can meet the needs of the area of focus. Following on from this it was suggested that I start generating ideas as well as start looking into existing products/services aimed at loneliness like 'socially assertive robots'.
To kick start my idea generation I came up with general ideas for a 'companion' like a physical object (such as a robotic AI) and also something more accessible like an app. I then decided to create an anonymous survey asking about loneliness as well as any links it has to mental illness. I specifically asked about the use of apps, physical objects (including robotic AI) or mix of both to help with loneliness. I did include the option of a person, although I phrased the question as if talking to other people was not an option, I did this to see if people would still rather talk to other people rather an device/object. The results of the survey will be taken next week (14th Oct) and I will start to analyse the results collected to help with idea generation.
While waiting for survey results, I focused my attention on researching 'socially assertive robots' and looking deeper into loneliness. I've watched several educational videos on loneliness, why people feel lonely, factors that affect it as well as ways to help combat this negative feeling. I have also read a few articles relating to the topic as I feel it is important to find a range of views on the topic.
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