Using Interactive Design to Support the Reconstruction of Cultural Identity and Community Necessitated by Migration

Abstract

Global warming has caused sea levels to rise. Ultimately, low-altitude land will be submerged, necessitating migration to higher altitudes. In this process, people’s cultural identity and community structure will be shattered, requiring fundamental reconstruction. Climate migrants face the struggle of adapting to rapid psychological and cultural change.

This dissertation explores ways in which interactive design can be used to support the psychosocial (having both psychological and social parts) adjustments that migrants need to make. The dynamic process of acculturation to the new environment while maintaining cultural continuity is discussed. This study examines the use of interaction design to support migrants’ integration into a new society and help them negotiate the bureaucratic challenges that they face in that process. Based on findings from case studies, this study suggests strategies to enhance cultural inclusion and diversity through interaction design.