Forging interaction: Exploration of interactivity fostered by visual design methods in printed picture books.
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School of Arts, Design and Architecture |
Bachelor's thesis
Ask about the availability of the thesis by sending email to the Aalto University Learning Centre oppimiskeskus@aalto.fi
Authors
Date
2023
Department
Major/Subject
Major of Design
Mcode
Degree programme
Bachelor's Programme in Design
Language
en
Pages
51
Series
Abstract
Implementing interactivity into the reading process presents an opportunity for creating a playful environment for the reader, making the reading process more enjoyable and engaging. Interactivity in books is fostered using various design methods and concepts. Thus, classifying them may help identify the appropriate design tools for specific goals to be achieved. While there exists extensive research on physical attributes in interactive books for children, there is no decisive exploration of the potential implementation of those kinds of books for adults. This thesis aimed at exploring two levels of interaction that can occur while reading interactive printed books, as well as forming connections between those levels. Presented bachelor’s thesis consists of expert interviews, followed by case studies. Four themes were formed based on a codebook from expert interviews, which provided background information on the interactivity concept in printed books. The themes concerned psychological or emotional interaction that can be formed with visual design methods. Curiosity, Surprise, Agency, and Action- reaction were determined by referring to keywords mentioned in the expert interviews. Furthermore, the conducted case studies identified the types of books according to the visual methods used. Touch and feel book, Novelty book, Pop-up book, and a Reader response-based book emerged. Following that, the two categorizations were compared. Then, the case studies were categorized according to singular themes in a table, followed by a graph demonstrating the intertwining of the themes. The findings of this thesis showcase that interactivity can occur on two levels. The first one is physical, or tactile which can manifest itself in touching the book, moving its elements. The second one can be referred to as emotional or cerebral interaction, which can be present as interest and fascination in the book. Moreover, interactive printed books are a combination of both levels of interaction, where mechanical and emotional interaction complement each other, as specific visual design methods can relate to more than one interaction with the reader. The topic of interactivity in printed interactive books has been extensively explored regarding it occurring on a physical level. Moreover, interactivity as a concept in print has been researched and defined, as well as benefits clearly defined. This study was conducted in order to analyze the connection between the two layers of interaction, namely visual design methods and interactivity concepts. The case studies were categorized according to the most dominant theme present, as several design methods and themes are likely to be present simultaneously. This thesis argues that interactive printed books are a combination of both levels of interaction, where mechanical and emotional interaction are complementary. Furthermore, this thesis suggests that interactive printed books have the potential to engage not only children but adults as well, foster creativity, and invite excitement in the act of reading.Description
Supervisor
Leinonen, TeemuThesis advisor
Chumaira, TaniaKeywords
interactivity, visual communication design, printed interactive books, visual communication design methods, play, reading