Little Drummer
2017
Partner: Thomas Kim, Priscilla Lee
“Little Drummer” is a project for disability student in Beverley School which is located in Toronto, Canada. This drum is a multi-sensory approach to play. Its design incorporates audio, visual and tactile elements, while allowing for easy modifications to fit individual preferences and curriculum needs. It is a low-cost (and sustainable) solution that makes use of commonly found domestic and classroom materials and supplies.
Project Introduction
This product aimed to identify sources of physical and emotional stressors affecting student engagement in the classroom environment. The examination and analysis of these stress points, contextualized through user, market and expert research, determined a design solution targeted towards enhancing and facilitating student engagement during daily activities. Particular attention was given to how students transition between activities with an understanding that they may have sensory sensitivities and preferences. The project intended to facilitate various methods that students and teachers use to manage and confront classroom stressors to maintain a positive and supportive learning environment.
Concept
Little Drummer’s customizable design comes at no additional cost to the consumer, allowing it to engage with its user(s) based on their unique preferences and needs.
Shapes, symbols and colours can be used to reinforce learning with sound
Storage for activity & transition symbols. A vinyl pouch features a display pocket and a larger gusset for storing symbols. It can beattached to both the strap or drum.
Design Outcome
Little Drummer is a multi-sensory approach to play. Its design incorporates audio, visual and tactile elements, while allowing for easy modifications to fit individual preferences and curriculum needs. It is a low-cost (and sustainable) solution that makes use of commonly found domestic and classroom materials and supplies. Little Drummer makes use of 3-D printing to produce a high-quality, cost-effective product without relying on economies of scale while taking advantage of greater availability of consumer 3-D printers and decreasing costs to 3-D print.
Little Drummer’s customizable design comes at no additional cost to the consumer, allowing it to engage with its user(s) based on their unique preferences and needs.
