Homework 2: Conceptual Metaphors in Activity Design
Due before class Thursday, January 30
One technique for developing a requirements analysis into an activity design
is to explore a range of conceptual metaphors. Different metaphors help
us to envision different ways of satisfying the requirements. This can help
to clarify what the requirements really were in first place, as well as suggesting
a set of concrete starting points for developing an activity design.
In the PhoneWriter design case study in our UCS collection, six conceptual
metaphors were explored during the activity design: cable vision, car pool,
check register, group of friends, telephone booth, and bank locker.
Your assignment is to review the Requirements Analysis and Activity Design
for the PhoneWriter case study and explain how each of the six metaphors
helped (1) to clarify the requirements, and (2) to suggest starting points
for activity design. Comment as to whether you agree with the Phone Writer
designers and why.
Please keep in mind that the case study documentation may not explicitly
contain a comprehensive answer. It's OK to be creative. Make the best use
you can of the material included in the case study documentation,
and then use your imagination to go beyond that. Be clear in your analysis
what information came from the Phone Writer case study and what information
you developed.
What to turn in:
Your paper should be organized by the six metaphors, which can sub-headings
in the paper.
Format your paper in 12-point Times or Times New Roman font,
single-spaced. Write no more than two pages, printed duplex (that is, hand
in a single sheet of paper). Your name and your student number (SS#) should
appear in the first two lines at the top-right of the first page in bold;
the heading "Homework 2: Conceptual Metaphors" should appear at the top-left
of page 1 in bold.
Extra Credit:
After you have completed the homework assignment, you can earn extra
credit by filling out the survey at http://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1043431369073
© Copyright 2003 John M. Carroll (based on an assignment
designed by M.B. Rosson)
Last Updated: January 2003