Throughout this semester, I had the opportunity to explore various tools and methods, deepening my understanding of the integration of technology and paper. I conducted an interview and gathered diverse opinions and insights on the topic, which significantly enriched my perspective. I was also able to try out the integration of printed material for learning with digital tools.
Next Steps
Moving forward, I plan to continue this exploration by experimenting with these tools in innovative ways. Here are the key projects I intend to pursue:
Creation of an Enhanced Orientation System: I aim to experiment with NFC to create an improved map system. This will involve exploring ways to enhance traditional maps with digital features, making them more interactive and user-friendly.
Implementation of NFC in Books: I plan to experiment with embedding NFC (Near-Field Communication) technology in books. This could revolutionize the way we interact with printed materials, providing instant access to supplementary digital content.
Community Integration in Books: Another exciting project is to integrate community interaction within books using various platforms and forums. This could facilitate a richer, collaborative learning experience where readers can discuss and share insights in real-time.
Additionally, I am particularly interested in further exploring the integration of digital and analog methods for learning. This hybrid approach has shown great potential and effectiveness, and I believe it needs further investigation
I am excited to continue these experiments and projects during the summer, aiming to find out new possibilities and innovations while merging paper and digital.
I continue my research on the topic of Merging Digital and Analogue with a qualitative interview. In this interview I asked questions about the use of digital and analogue tools to understand if there is an interest from users to merge these two further.
Transcript
Introduction
Hello, I am Laura Galvanetto, a communication design student studying at FH Joanneum. Today I will interview you on the topic of “Merging Digital and Paper”. This interview is part of my research for my Master Thesis. I will write down your answer, and I could include the interview in my Master Thesis.
Questions, answers, insights
Do you enjoy more using analogue or digital tools?
I use in university mostly digital tools, so when I can I choose she prefers analogue tools.
Observations: friendly and open face expression
Do you enjoy using a mix of the two for helping you in a task? For example, learning something, design something ecc.
Yes, I do. For instance, I use digital tools like youtube and search engines to research, but I enjoy using paper for writing down my findings, as I find analogue note-taking to be faster.
Observations: small pause at the beginning
Do you enjoy using QR Codes?
Sometimes I do, it depends if they work well. Sometimes it is frustrating when they do not work right away.
Observations: Detailed answer and while she speaks about her frustration also face expression indicates it
Do you know what NFC (Near-field communication) is?
No, I do not know.
Observations: Iooks confused
Would you like digital tools to integrate better in books?
Yes, that would be great for learning. Especially it would be interesting to me to learn languages.
Observations: thinks a bit before talking
Do you have good examples of integration of digital and analogue? I like to have a calendar in both a digital and analogue format, this mix help me remember what I have to do and in this way I have always my calendar readily accessible.
Observations: Smile, starts talking about her personal experience detailed
Closing
Thank you for your answers and your time. I find your contribution valuable to the advancement of my research.
To continue my research about connecting digital to analogical I decided to try out NFC sticker (Near Field Communication). My goal was to see how NFC stickers could be used to bridge traditional and digital resources, in an efficient way. Here, I’ll share my experience, from purchasing and configuring NFC stickers to testing them and gathering feedback.
Purchasing and Configuring NFC Stickers
I started by purchasing a batch of NFC stickers, small adhesive tags that can store various types of information accessible via NFC-enabled devices. To configure these stickers, I needed to install an app, so I downloaded “NFC Tools” on my phone, a popular choice for reading and writing NFC tags.
Step-by-Step Configuration
1. Scanning the NFC Code: Using the NFC Tools app, I scanned the NFC sticker. This scan provided detailed information about the tag, including the type of tag, available technologies, and whether it was writable.
2. Writing to the Tag: I selected the „write a record“ option within the app. This feature offered several configuration possibilities. For my initial test, I decided to configure the tag with a URL linking to my portfolio. However, NFC Tools allows for various other types of records, such as: application records, social network links, search links, file links, contact information, email addresses, text messages.
This versatility makes NFC stickers incredibly useful for a wide range of applications.
Testing the Configured NFC Stickers
After configuring the NFC stickers with the URL to my portfolio, I tested them and then demonstrated their use to several people. Here’s what I discovered:
• User Confusion: Most people were initially confused about how to use the NFC stickers. They needed further instructions on how to activate the NFC feature on their phones and how to scan the stickers correctly.
• Device Compatibility: In one case, a person didn’t have an NFC-enabled phone. In another instance, the phone’s NFC functionality needed to be manually activated.
• Speed and Convenience: Once users understood how to use the NFC stickers, they found the process of accessing the linked URL quick and convenient. This indicated a clear potential for NFC technology, despite the initial learning curve.
Observations and Insights
While configuring and testing NFC stickers, I noticed several advantages:
• Ease of Configuration: Using the NFC Tools app to configure the stickers was straightforward and user-friendly.
• Variety of Uses: The ability to write different types of records to NFC stickers makes them highly versatile. Beyond URLs, they can be used for a multitude of purposes, enhancing both personal and professional applications.
•User Familiarity: A significant problem was users’ unfamiliarity with NFC technology. Many people are not used to using NFC and require guidance to understand its benefits and functionalities. However, when users try nfc once, it is easy to understand its function for next time, as not many steps are required
•Comparation to QR Codes: compared to QR Codes, the use of NFC stickers is faster and more efficient.
Conclusion
My initial experiments with NFC stickers revealed both opportunities and challenges. The main challenge lies in educating users on how to utilize NFC effectively. However, once this problem is overcome, the speed and convenience of NFC technology can greatly enhance the user experience.
After researching various techniques to connect digital and paper-based resources, I realized the importance of finding a more precise research question. To identify this question, I decided to apply the technologies I have explored to specific fields and document my findings in a series of blog posts. My initial focus is on using these technologies for learning.
The Potential of Hybrid Learning Tools
I began by examining the typical layout of a book page, noting its advantages: it’s easy to write on and is commonly used in classrooms. However, the material offered in a book is often insufficient, and learners frequently rely on online resources like forums, dictionaries, and YouTube videos when a teacher isn’t available. This led me to wonder: what if a book could integrate both traditional and digital learning tools?
Experimentation and Feedback
To explore this idea, I experimented with printing a page from a C1-level German reading comprehension book. To enhance learning, I integrated QR codes that linked to an online forum for discussing the text and to Context Reverso, a tool that provides examples of unknown words and can be translated into different languages.
I tested this hybrid approach by showing it to another German learner. The feedback was generally positive; she appreciated the QR codes‘ advantages in learning. However, she mentioned that she wouldn’t use the forum much and suggested using it for writing activities instead of just questions and answers.
Next Steps
Next, I will try to integrate audio and video into the learning process. Currently, I am using QR codes that redirect users to other platforms. However, I believe it would be more effective to have a unified app that consolidates all these resources.
Conclusion
Integrating traditional and digital learning tools has the potential to significantly enhance the educational experience. My initial experiments with QR codes and online forums show positive feedback from people who tested it. I will try to make this model better and try to integrate the studied technologies.
In this post, I will share my experience using Adobe Aero, an augmented reality tool developed by Adobe. This powerful platform allows users to create immersive experiences by overlaying digital content—such as images, animations, and 3D models—onto the real world through the lens of a smartphone or tablet.
The Process of Creating Interactive Posters with Adobe Aero
Creating an interactive poster with Adobe Aero is a straightforward process. Firstly, an image should be imported into the program. This image will serve as the basis for the augmented reality experience and will be scanned by users in its printed form.
Next, Adobe Aero allows the incorporation of additional images or 3D models into the poster, enhancing its interactivity. The program also offers a variety of 3D assets that can be readily used.
When the creation is ready, clicking on ’share‘ will generate a QR code. This QR code enables spectators to view the artwork and, if necessary, prompts them to install the app on their phones. After installing the app, users can see the augmented reality artwork come to life.
Artivive vs. Adobe Aero
In comparison to Artivive, Adobe Aero offers more possibilities for creative expression. Not only can images be connected to videos, but 3D models can also be implemented. When adding elements in Adobe Aero, they appear in the 3D plane and can be easily positioned.
However, while Adobe Aero offers more features, it is not as straightforward as Artivive. Firstly, creating an artwork with Adobe Aero requires a laptop, whereas Artivive can be used directly from a smartphone. Secondly, Adobe Aero’s interface may not be as immediately intuitive as Artivive’s, necessitating a learning curve for users.
In terms of performance, Adobe Aero occasionally exhibits glitches and self-blocking issues, reflective of its ongoing development phase, as it is still offered in a beta version.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Adobe Aero is an efficient tool for creating augmented reality experiences, especially useful for integrating 3D models. However, for an easier process of connecting images to videos, Artivive may be more intuitive. Both platforms have their unique strengths and can be chosen based on the specific needs of the project.
QR codes are widely used for connecting digital content to physical media. To understand their scannability and limitations, I conducted an experiment. Here’s what I found, based on best practices and my own tests.
Best Practices for QR Code Scanning
According to various articles read online and mainly referring from an article published by the Nielsen Norman Group, these are the best practices while using Qr Codes.
Color Contrast and Light Mode:
Foreground and Background: Use a dark foreground on a light background. Dark colors absorb more light, creating clearer edges for scanning technologies, which is crucial in extreme lighting conditions.
Avoid Inverted Colors: Modern devices might scan inverted QR codes, but not all technologies, especially in physical locations, can handle them reliably.
Minimum Size Considerations:
Official Minimum Size: The recommended minimum size is 1 cm x 1 cm (0.4 inches x 0.4 inches), but a larger size is more reliable.
Optimal Minimum Size: A size of 2 cm x 2 cm (0.8 inches x 0.8 inches) is more reliable, accounting for variations in scanning technology and user environments.
Distance and Size Relationship:
Scaling with Distance: Increase the QR code size based on the expected scanning distance. For every 10 cm of distance, add 1 cm to the code dimensions. Example: For a 10 cm scanning distance, the code can be 1 cm x 1 cm. For a 50 cm distance, the code should be at least 5 cm x 5 cm.
My Experiment: Testing QR Code Sizes and Backgrounds
To verify these guidelines, I printed QR codes of various sizes and backgrounds and tested their scannability with my phone. Here are my findings:
Less than 1 cm: I could not scan the QR code.
1 cm x 1 cm QR Codes:
Plain Background: My phone could scan a 1 cm x 1 cm QR code on a plain background, but it took some time to recognize it.
Colorful Background: Scanning a 1 cm x 1 cm QR code on a colorful background was problematic and time-consuming, often failing to recognize the code.
Colorful QR Code: Scanning a colorful QR code of this size was also problematic and time-consuming, often failing to recognize the code.
1.5 cm x 1.5 cm QR Codes or bigger:
Plain Background: These codes were easily scannable with no delay.
Colorful Background: My phone could recognize these codes reliably even with a colorful background.
Colorful QR Code: Scanning a colorful QR code of this size was also very easy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I would say that what was written on the guidelines was very similar to what I experimented. However, most of the times having a colorful background or Qr Code posed no problems to scanning, problems arose only when the QR code size was reduced to 1 cm.
During the International Design Week workshop, titled „But Seriously… Following the Call of Beauty… or Celebrating the CounterPARTY?“, we began by exploring the possibilities within graphic design.
As a group of students, we identified various daily life problems that we, as designers, could address. Each of us presented a specific problem, and we decided to focus on the issue of recycling information. I brought in a leaflet from my student dorm that was overwhelming and full of information, highlighting a common issue in student dorms and public spaces. While local residents are typically educated about proper waste disposal, newcomers often find it challenging to learn and follow new guidelines.
We split into two groups to brainstorm solutions. One immediate idea was to design a better flyer to make the recycling process more understandable. However, we soon expanded our thinking beyond traditional graphic design.
We explored various innovative solutions, such as implementing a color-coding system for garbage bags or using colored stickers on packaging to simplify sorting. Ultimately, we decided to focus on integrating packaging with a digital scanning app. This app would connect physical materials with digital information, helping to resolve recycling issues more effectively.
The app would allow users to scan a code on the packaging and receive rewards, thus gamifying the recycling process. This approach not only makes recycling easier but also incentivizes participation, making the process more engaging and rewarding.
While we mainly brainstormed solutions during the workshop without having the time to prototype, the experience sparked important reflections. I began to consider how digital solutions, when implemented correctly, could address real-life problems thanks to unique qualities such as interactivity, gamification, and audio/video integration. These digital features have the potential to create engaging and effective tools that can significantly enhance our daily lives.
For my second experiment, I decided to try out Artivive, a user-friendly app that brings art to life with augmented reality.
Getting Started
Firstly, I downloaded the Artivive app on my phone. The process was straightforward and intuitive, making it accessible for anyone interested in blending traditional art with digital animation.
Creating the Art
I began by designing a simple 2D symbol. Next, I transformed this symbol into a 3D animated version. Artivive allows you to upload both the static image and the connected animated video. The platform offers various effects to enhance the animation, including transparency, fade-in, fill, color adjustments, and threshold settings.
Viewing the Animation
By scanning the static image with the Artivive app, the animation comes to life. This interactive feature means that anyone with the app can experience the animated version of the artwork simply by scanning the image.
Considerations
The method of using Artivive is remarkably simple, which is a major advantage. However, it does have some limitations.
Pros
Beautiful, Easy Results: Artivive allows users to create impressive animations with minimal effort.
Interactive Experience: The app enhances the viewer’s experience by adding a dynamic layer to traditional artwork.
Cons
App Requirement: The necessity of having the app installed to scan the images may limit accessibility for some users. And there should be an incentive for them to download the app. I think this might work for example in an art show, where multiple artworks require the same app. However, I believe for a poster in the street or some other single project it would be more difficult that people download the app for this purpouse.
The Budapest transport system has recently (2023) implemented an innovative approach to ticket validation, utilizing both Near Field Communication (NFC) and QR codes. This dual-method system aims to enhance efficiency and user experience.
NFC Technology Implementation
Process and Benefits:
Convenient Validation: NFC-stickers are placed on vehicle doors of BKK lines and at station entrances on metro lines. Users validate their tickets or passes by holding their phones 1-3 cm away from the sticker. This proximity triggers an animated image on the device, confirming successful validation.
No App Required: One-step validation with NFC does not require logging into the BudapestGO app. Users simply unlock their phones, significantly streamlining the process.
Speed: The NFC validation process is approximately 10 seconds faster than QR code scanning, as it eliminates the need to open any apps. This quick and seamless interaction is particularly beneficial during peak hours, reducing congestion at entry points.
Placement of NFC-Stickers:
Metro Entrances: Stickers are located on ticket validation machines below the QR code and the paper ticket slot.
Trams, Buses, Trolleybuses, and Suburban Trains: Stickers are placed on the side of the vehicles next to the doors, adjacent to the QR code stickers.
QR Code Technology
Process and Benefits:
App Integration: Users can still validate their tickets purchased through other digital ticket apps using QR code scanning. This method requires opening the specific app and scanning the code.
Compatibility: QR codes provide a reliable alternative for users without NFC-enabled phones, ensuring the validation system remains accessible to all passengers.
Placement of QR Codes:
Metro Entrances and Vehicles: QR code stickers are placed alongside NFC stickers on validation machines and vehicle doors, ensuring that both methods are readily available.
Observations and Findings
During my visit to Budapest, I had the opportunity to use this system and realized how convenient it was compared to QR code scanning. It saves multiple seconds because you do not need to open your camera; you can simply hold your phone near the NFC tag. This experience sparked my interest in further exploring this technology.
I discovered that NFC stickers or cards can be easily purchased and configured, which I plan to experiment with in the near future. Some practical uses of NFC stickers include sharing WiFi passwords, facilitating fundraising through flyers, and sharing photos.
I worked at the Event LENDWIRBEL 2024, I was here tasked with creating a plan for the window design. A key element of this design was the integration of QR codes. These QR codes allowed attendees to directly access information about the events being offered. Qr-Codes were also integrated in printed leaflets.
Observations and Insights
Effectiveness and Accessibility: The QR codes were used, but their effectiveness had certain limitations. Attendees needed to approach the window, carefully read the information, and then scan the codes. From what I have observed, I supposed many people typed directly the name of the event on a browser, instead of using the Qr codes.
Flexibility and Adaptability: One significant advantage of using QR codes was their flexibility. Unlike printed programs, which can become outdated quickly, QR codes could link to dynamic content that could be updated in real time. This was particularly useful for an event like LENDWIRBEL, where the schedule could change daily, or even during the festival itself.
Reflection and Future Considerations
While QR codes provided a flexible and modern solution, their implementation raised some important questions about usability and user experience. I began to ask myself: Is there a better alternative? Can we find a quicker and more intuitive solution?
Potential alternatives I would like to explore next:
NFC: Near-field communication could be easier to use instead of QR codes, as they require people only to put the phone closer instead of needing to open an app. I will explore this further.
