Rain Protection Strategies on Campus
Impact of Rain
Rain seems to be harmless for most people, however, some are still sensitive to the change of weather and are impacted either psychologically or physically by the rainy days.
The lack of sunlight during rainy days disrupts serotonin and melatonin production, leading to symptoms like fatigue and mood swings. Overcast weather is associated with depression, and humidity reduces students’ focus. Rains can also disrupt routines and stress students with canceled plans. Effective rain management is crucial for maintaining a stable campus environment and supporting academic success.
Design Question
How can we enhance rain protection and safety measures at the University of Washington, focusing on campus infrastructure, personal strategies, and information dissemination, to improve the experience during rainy conditions?
Field Study
Objective:
Explore how individuals on campus cope with rainy conditions and identify key problem areas.
Methods:
Field observations around key campus locations such as the Red Square and the campus roadways.
Key Findings:
Issues like inadequate bus shelters and the need for caution signs in slippery areas.
Recommendations:
Enhance bus shelters, install caution signs, and provide guidance on rain gear and safe paths.
Field notes from the observations
Interview Study
Objective:
Dive deeper into personal experiences and perspectives on existing rain protection measures.
Methods:
Interviews with students, focusing on their rain-related challenges and strategies.
Key Findings:
Importance of personal rain gear and the effectiveness of current campus infrastructure.
Recommendations:
Improve campus drainage, enhance communication about rain protection resources, and consider a public umbrella-sharing program.
Notes from the interviews
Survey Study
Objective:
Validate and extend the findings from field and interview studies.
Methods:
Online survey with responses from students and staff.
Key Findings:
High reliance on digital weather information and interest in a public umbrella-sharing program
Recommendations:
Implement digital weather information displays and pilot an umbrella-sharing program.
Interest in Public Umbrella-Sharing Program
High Impact of Weather Forecast on Personal Preparedness
Retro
This project aimed to improve rain safety and comfort on the University of Washington campus by addressing key issues identified through field studies, interviews, and surveys, such as inadequate bus shelters and slippery surfaces. Through a robust multi-method approach, the need for infrastructural improvements and personalized strategies for rain protection was discovered. Looking ahead, the project sets the stage for opportunities including pilot testing an umbrella-sharing initiative, conducting further research during different seasons to understand varied weather impacts, and collaborating with campus facilities to implement drainage improvements and resurface areas known to be slippery.
The experience highlighted the challenges of data collection during varying weather conditions and the complexities involved in creating effective solutions. These activities have enhanced my understanding of planning and implementing adaptive strategies in environmental research. For additional information about this project or to provide feedback, please contact me through this website.