Our Brain Is A Big Deal

STEM Accessibility | Interactive Learning | Inclusive Exploration

Collaborative Work with Jane Liu, Aradhita Maheshwari

My Role: Concept Design, Digital Fabrication, Installation Assembling

Timeline: March 2024 (1 week production + 2 week exhibition)

Made with: Hardware - Arduino, White LED Backlight Module; Software - Illustrator; Materials - Frosted Transparent Acrylic, Plywood, Felt, Velcro, Conductive Paint, Plastic Helmet.


| Opportunity

We were tasked with curating an immersive play experience focused on STEM exploration within a pop-up space.

| Outcome

We created a pioneering solution in STEM education, blending interactive technology and inclusive design to create an engaging and accessible experience that fosters curiosity and comprehension among children aged 6-12.

Our Brain is a Big Deal is an innovative interactive installation that delves into the accessibility of STEM education, with a specific focus on providing an engaging, educational, and inclusive experience for children aged 6-12.

Participants are invited to don a specialized helmet featuring touchable felt pads. These pads, coated with conductive paint, correspond to specific regions on an acrylic brain model, triggering LED panels underneath to illuminate upon interaction. Through the aid of color-coded cards, participants embark on a journey through various brain functions, gaining a deeper understanding of cognitive science, neuroscience, and behavioral psychology.

The installation aims to foster playful exploration while promoting accessibility in STEM education. By integrating tactile elements and visual aids, it provides a multi-sensory experience that accommodates diverse learning styles and abilities. Additionally, a brief quiz incorporating real-life scenarios enhances comprehension and reinforces learning outcomes.

Our Brain is a Big Deal represents a collaborative effort to inspire curiosity, spark imagination, and promote inclusivity in STEM learning environments.

Located at the entrance of 370 Jay St 4th floor, NYU Campus, the installation runs from March 15th to March 29th, 2024.


01. Design Research & Ideation

Design Research on Stem Accessibility

Field Research + Inspiration Board

Inspiration Board


02. Installation Sketch & User flow

Installation Sketch

User Flow


03. Physical Computation Development

System Diagram

conductive paint controlling LED panel test

6 conductive blocks controlling 6 LED test


04. Digital Fabrication Production

Brain Visual Design

Illustrator Laser Cut File

Cardboard Prototype

Applying Cellophane Paper to Laser Cut Sections

Securing Cellophane Paper to Laser Cut Sections

Securing Sections to Main Board

Completed Brain Fabrication (Front)

Completed Brain Fabrication (Side)


05. Installation Assembling

Assembling Circuit Connection to Main Board

Assembling Circuit Connection to Main Board

Assembling Circuit Connection to Main Board

Completed Installation (Side)