Week 6 Journey

[Figure 1: The 5R framework by Bain et al. (for example 2002) for reflection]

This week, I decided to explore a new reflection model, specifically the 5R framework, as it has been a frustrating and challenging week. I believe breaking down each stage and process of this framework will help me reflect more precisely on my experiences and identify key areas for improvement moving forward into next week.

Reporting

This week, I worked on sketching prototypes for the green roof model, focusing on layout, structure, and plant placement. I also researched material costs at accessible stores to ensure the project remains financially viable. To gain insight into plant selection, I visited Duder Regional Park as research, in theory, could differ from what is used in real-life contexts to observe native plants used for conservation around the coastline, with strong wind and minimal maintenance, which I’m considering for green roofs on Queen Street due to its proximity to Commercial Bay.

[Figure 2: My Miro, Duder Regional Park Visit with annotation on the native plants]

[Figure 3: My Miro, Prototype Ideation]

Responding

I felt both progress and frustration this week. While I created prototype sketches and gathered cost information, I struggled with uncertainty surrounding the selection of roof structures, questioning whether I had designed the correct type of prototype. The lack of detailed information online about Queen Street's rooftop structures made it challenging to determine the most suitable green roof design. Despite this, the park visit was a refreshing break that allowed me to connect with nature and gain ideas for potential plant species.

Relating

This week’s experience reminded me of past projects where I had to navigate uncertainty and gaps in research. Much like when I worked on the surplus food app project, I juggled creative solutions and practical limitations. The lack of information I could reference about Queen Street’s rooftops is a significant hurdle, similar to challenges I’ve faced in previous projects when available resources were limited.

Reasoning

This week's main challenge was the need for more precise information online on the rooftop structures of Queen Street stores. Based on my visual observations and conversation with the Engineering professor responsible for the Engineering living roof, most stores are slightly tilted with mixed-structure roofs of concrete and PVC tiles. Sedum roofs are lightweight; therefore, they best fit many buildings but have fewer biodiversity impacts. However, semi-intensive and intensive roofs would allow for more extraordinary biodiversity for stores with concrete roofs. This reasoning helps balance structural limitations with environmental goals for actual implementation.

Reconstructing

I plan to refine my prototype sketches by incorporating what I’ve learned about potential roof structures. I must find additional ways to gather information, possibly through field research or professional consultation or, if necessary, emailing real estate agencies on the dimensions of stores on sale. This will ensure my final design choices are both feasible and environmentally beneficial.

References

DES301. (2024). miro.com. https://miro.com/app/board/uXjVKwhlN3g=/

The 5R framework for reflection. (2002). The University of Edinburgh. https://www.ed.ac.uk/reflection/reflectors-toolkit/reflecting-on-experience/5r-framework