Abstract

The Inclusive Design Archive (IDA) is a conceptual research and design project that responds to the ongoing reliance on Eurocentric, male-dominated narratives in design education. Many art and design curricula continue to exclude underrepresented creators, movements, and methodologies, limiting students’ exposure to the full scope of global design practice. Even well-intentioned educators often lack accessible tools to bring diverse perspectives into the classroom in a structured, research-supported way. IDA offers a solution in the form of a contextual search application that helps educators and students explore topics through three intersecting lenses: Broader Perspectives, Intersectional Approaches and Alternate Narratives, and Concepts, Methodologies, and Critiques. Users might search broadly—like “modernism”—or more specifically—like “indigenous textile systems”—and receive layered results that include summaries, frameworks for understanding, and curated resources. The project was developed through research and iterative visual exploration, leading to a radially structured interface that organizes information by context and resource type. Final deliverables include a prototype UI, an informational website, poster series, and a short promotional video. Though conceptual, IDA proposes a feasible model for rethinking how inclusive research tools might support teaching, expand inquiry, and bring more voices into the stories we tell through design.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Design--Social aspects--Interactive multimedia--Design; Universal design--Interactive multimedia--Design; Design--Study and teaching--Audio-visual aids

Publication Date

2025

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Visual Communication Design (MFA)

Department, Program, or Center

Design, School of

College

College of Art and Design

Advisor

Mike Strobert

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

Plan Codes

VISCOM-MFA

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