ZineScape

Product Description

ZineScape is a web application that facilitates collective creativity and collaboration, modeled similarity to the game, telephone. In a classroom setting, students will enter in a virtual room through a code given by their instructor. Then in pairs, students will be given a prompt related to their identity and lived experiences through an incomplete statement. Based on the incomplete statement, students will showcase ideation for their zine and create them based on a time constraint set from their instructor. Afterwards, students will receive submissions from their partner, and develop a response.

While automation and AI expedite the process of creation, we wanted to highlight the importance of the creative process because unique stories emerge from non-linear journeys. We were inspired to amplify the intrinsic value of the creative process through zines due to the purpose they serve: a pedagogical tool for social justice, meant not to be works of perfection, but works in progress that invite dialogue on lived experiences. We believe this would best work within a college classroom setting due to the opportunity to learn from peers who come from different walks of life.

Key Design Decisions

1. Digital vs Printed Zines- Initially, we were hesitant to go with digital zines due to the fact that they may not feel as tangible as zines produced as a physical copy. However, we took into consideration of those from low socio-economic backgrounds who may not have the resources to use high-cost materials to produce zines. We want a space for people to express themselves without barriers, and overall be more accessible.

2. Showing Brainstorming Process- While we aimed to highlight the creative process, we initially struggled to find a balance between user comfort in sharing process details and maintaining authenticity. However, our user surveys and secondary research from Reddit users revealed that students are interested in showcasing their process as it demonstrates intentionality and thoughtful direction behind their work. In our application, we included their process of creating zines in hopes of inspiring the pair with and different interpretations and ideas.

3. Reflection Period- From reading articles related to completing creative tasks under time constraints, we found that shorter time frames with creative tasks may result in a lack of reflection of one’s work. According to user surveys from educators, we learned that they value self-awareness and reflection, as this is a stepping stone to personal growth. To accommodate this tradeoff, we included a reflection section to provide a space where student can introspectively consider their own and their partner's perspectives.

4. Emphasis On Collaborative Zine Making- Another design decision we pivoted to was having students collaborate on their zines in pairs. According to secondary research we conducted, zine-making with others can foster connection in the classroom; this activity can foster dialogue surrounding the status quo and highlight voices/the experiences of students from marginalized backgrounds. We specifically chose pairs because 4/5 users on our survey indicated that they would prefer to work with 1-2 people in a collaborative zine-making project.

Built With

• figma