Memory Box Birdsong

Project Background:

Many species of birds, like humans, have a capacity for vocal learning. For people, this is a crucial factor in speech acquisition. Intriguingly, there are behavioural, neural and genetic similarities between auditory-vocal learning in birds and human infants. Both birdsong and human language organise apparently meaningless noises hierarchically into syntactic sequences. This is known as ‘phonological syntax’, or phono coding. Birdsong is not thought to include words, though its potential as a model system for understanding human speech remains under-explored.

THE UX OF BIRDSONG

BRIEF: Design an birdsong experience

Learning outcomes

Developing an individual research project and carrying out design-oriented research using a variety of methods and presenting it in narrative form. (Enquiry, Knowledge, Communication)
Making design prototypes at increasing levels of fidelity using different technologies. (Process, Realisation)
Implementing fully realised UX design outcomes informed by a detailed understanding of theoretical and conceptual approaches and drawing on a range of practical design skills. (Process, Realisation)
Understanding and articulating the key theoretical ideas underpinning UX design with particular reference to concepts of experience and narrative. (Knowledge)

Project Type

Academic

(2 weeks)

Role

Primary & Secondary Research

Physical Prototyping

Methodologies

Digital Soundwalking

Emotional Resonance

User Testing

Market Analysis

Digital Soundwalking

Emotional Resonance

User Testing

Tools

Arduino

Miro

Primary Research - I

Digital SoundWalking

As a research methodology, we performed Digital Soundwalking in three Garden Spaces in London. We aimed to capture and observe the soundscapes of the birds.

Process

Conducted digital Soundwalking in three nearby gardens.
Experienced diverse auditory environments in each garden.
Noted unique sonic landscapes including birdsong melodies and leaf rustling.
Utilised digital technology to document and capture acoustic experiences.
Enhanced understanding of the interplay between sound, space, and nature.

St. Mary’s Churchyard
There were only 2 birds present and the surrounding sounds (car engines, traffic light beeping, and construction sounds) overpowered the birdsong.
Burgess Park
There were so many different species of birds at the park. We recorded different bird sounds and sounds present in the park. We could hear the birdsongs a lot clearer here because the birds were located in the middle of the park and the surrounding trees blocked out the noises from the outside.
St. James Park
There were so many different species of birds at the park. We recorded different bird sounds and sounds present in the park. We could hear the birdsongs a lot clearer here because the birds were located in the middle of the park and the surrounding trees blocked out the noises from the outside.
St. Mary’s Churchyard
There were only 2 birds present and the surrounding sounds (car engines, traffic light beeping, and construction sounds) overpowered the birdsong.
Burgess Park
There were so many different species of birds at the park. We recorded different bird sounds and sounds present in the park. We could hear the birdsongs a lot clearer here because the birds were located in the middle of the park and the surrounding trees blocked out the noises from the outside.
St. James Park
There were so many different species of birds at the park. We recorded different bird sounds and sounds present in the park. We could hear the birdsongs a lot clearer here because the birds were located in the middle of the park and the surrounding trees blocked out the noises from the outside.
St. Mary’s Churchyard
There were only 2 birds present and the surrounding sounds (car engines, traffic light beeping, and construction sounds) overpowered the birdsong.
Burgess Park
There were so many different species of birds at the park. We recorded different bird sounds and sounds present in the park. We could hear the birdsongs a lot clearer here because the birds were located in the middle of the park and the surrounding trees blocked out the noises from the outside.
St. James Park
There were so many different species of birds at the park. We recorded different bird sounds and sounds present in the park. We could hear the birdsongs a lot clearer here because the birds were located in the middle of the park and the surrounding trees blocked out the noises from the outside.
St. Mary’s Churchyard
There were only 2 birds present and the surrounding sounds (car engines, traffic light beeping, and construction sounds) overpowered the birdsong.
Burgess Park
There were so many different species of birds at the park. We recorded different bird sounds and sounds present in the park. We could hear the birdsongs a lot clearer here because the birds were located in the middle of the park and the surrounding trees blocked out the noises from the outside.
St. James Park
There were so many different species of birds at the park. We recorded different bird sounds and sounds present in the park. We could hear the birdsongs a lot clearer here because the birds were located in the middle of the park and the surrounding trees blocked out the noises from the outside.

Analysis of Sound Experience:

Therapeutic Blend of Sounds:

The combination of natural sounds, such as birdsong, with urban noises created a unique auditory experience.

The juxtaposition of these sounds contributed to a therapeutic ambiance, offering a sense of relaxation and tranquility.

Impact on Emotional
State:

Despite the dominance of urban noises, the presence of bird sounds had a noticeable effect on our emotional well-being.

The soothing nature of bird calls counteracted the potentially stressful effects of urban sounds, promoting a sense of calmness and ease.

Enhanced Relaxation Response:

Feeling significantly more relaxed after experiencing the mixture of natural and urban sounds.

The therapeutic qualities of the sound environment facilitated a release of tension and fatigue accumulated throughout the day.

Implications for Well-being:

The positive impact of the sound experience underscores the potential for incorporating natural elements into urban environments to promote well-being.

Understanding the therapeutic effects of sound can inform urban planning and design strategies aimed at creating more harmonious and rejuvenating spaces amidst urban bustle.

Primary Research - II

Emotional Resonance

Research into Hollywood's use of the loon sound reveals frequent inappropriate applications as a mood-setting shortcut. Reflection on the soothing effects of birdsong during digital sound walking emphasises nuanced understanding and responsible utilisation of avian sounds in media and urban environments.

Primary Research - II

Emotional Resonance

Primary Research - II

Emotional Resonance

Loon Sounds

Went back to research, we also found out, Many many Hollywood movies use the Loon sound inappropriately. It shows, perhaps, our ignorance of birds and birdsongs. But why they're continuously using Loon sound? it's a shortcut to evoke a feeling, it enhances a moment of melancholy or tension - it's a perfect mood setter.

This also reminded us of the digital sound walking research we did at st James park - the soothing and almost therapeutic feeling that brought us.

We researched more into how people feel about different birdsongs.

We asked people around the campus, and the main questions were:

How did you feel?
What images came to your mind?

Findings on Reactions to Birdsong:

Varied Responses to Different Bird Species:

Contrary to the universal interpretation of the loon sound as conveying melancholy or tension, participants displayed diverse reactions to different birdsongs.

Subjectivity in Perception:

Reactions to the Mediterranean gull's call varied widely among participants.

Some individuals perceived it as cute and evocative of caring emotions, while others found it annoying and discomforting.

Individual Associations and Imagery:

Participants' responses to birdsongs were influenced by their personal experiences, memories, and associations.

The same birdsong could evoke contrasting images and emotions, illustrating the subjective nature of auditory perception.

Implications for Sound Design and Therapy:

Understanding the subjective nature of responses to birdsongs highlights the importance of considering individual preferences in sound design and therapy.

Tailoring auditory environments to accommodate diverse perceptions can enhance the effectiveness of sound-based interventions and experiences.

Impact on Mood and Atmosphere:

The positive impact of the sound experience underscores the potential for incorporating natural elements into urban environments to promote well-being.

Understanding the therapeutic effects of sound can inform urban planning and design strategies aimed at creating more harmonious and rejuvenating spaces amidst urban bustle.

Concept Drawings

Sound Scape Combinations

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Inspiration

Finding Use case

“This project reminds me of my time in the hospital with my grandfather just before he passed away. I remembered the claustrophobic and unpleasant environment in the hospital room. Even though he is mostly unconscious, the doctor said he could still hear us talking. So I remember my family would bring photo albums and personal items to the hospital room to talk to him and tell stories I feel if we had last week’s prototype we could have made the environment more pleasant, bringing in nature, and birdsong. A better experience.”

- Marty Chen (Team Member)

Inspiration

Finding Use case

“This project reminds me of my time in the hospital with my grandfather just before he passed away. I remembered the claustrophobic and unpleasant environment in the hospital room. Even though he is mostly unconscious, the doctor said he could still hear us talking. So I remember my family would bring photo albums and personal items to the hospital room to talk to him and tell stories I feel if we had last week’s prototype we could have made the environment more pleasant, bringing in nature, and birdsong. A better experience.”

- Marty Chen (Team Member)

Inspiration

Finding Use case

- Marty Chen (Team Member)

Like Marty’s grandfather, many patients live their remaining days in the hospital environment without any contact with the outside world.

Through this project we want to help improve the experience for the patients and visitors by bringing a part of nature into the room to help reduce stress levels.

Secondary Research

Effects of hospital environment on Patients

Noise pollution

Hospital environments are often filled with various noises, including alarms, intercom announcements, and equipment, contributing to stress (Hagerman et al., 2016).

Disruption of sleep

Constant activity and interruptions in hospitals can disrupt patients' sleep patterns, leading to increased stress levels (Richards et al., 2013).

Uncertainty and lack of control

Patients may feel anxious due to the uncertainty of their medical condition and the lack of control over their environment (Kain et al., 2006).

Invasive procedures

The need for invasive procedures and medical tests can induce stress and anxiety among patients (Bower et al., 2015).

Clinical interactions

Negative interactions with medical staff or perceived lack of empathy can contribute to patient stress (Lelorain et al., 2012).

Isolation

Patients may feel isolated or lonely during hospital stays, which can increase feelings of stress and depression (Visser et al., 2013).

Physical discomfort

Pain, discomfort, and side effects of treatments can add to the overall stress experienced by patients in hospitals (Rosenberger et al., 2006).

Concept Development: Memory Box

Memory + Sounds = Revisiting Memories

Using Birdsongs to evoke nostalgia and revisit old memories, as their melodies trigger emotional connections with past experiences and places. The familiar chirps and calls allow them to relive cherished moments and rekindle memories with a sense of warmth and comfort.

Initial Concept : Musical Book

A book that intertwines nostalgic photographs with accompanying bird songs, triggering a multi-sensory journey down memory lane. Each turn of the page unveils cherished moments captured in time, accompanied by the soothing melodies of birdsong, offering a deeply immersive experience of reminiscence and reflection.

Final Concept : Memory Box

A box housing cherished photographs from the past, paired with built-in sensors that trigger bird songs corresponding to each image when lifted. Combining nostalgia with nature's melodies, it offers a delightful and immersive experience of reliving old memories through sight and sound.