Overview
Inspiration
Dylan Baker's interactive website inspired us to create a research backed platform which is not only interactive bust also effective in delivering the information successfully.
Why It Matters
Education
Understanding dark patterns is essential because they are deceptive design techniques used in websites and apps to trick users into making decisions they might not have made if the information was presented fairly and transparently.
Vulnerable Population
It's particularly important for teenagers and the elderly to be aware of dark patterns because these groups can be more vulnerable to online manipulation. Teenagers, still developing critical thinking skills and often less experienced with deceptive online practices, might be easily swayed by such tactics. Similarly, the elderly, who might not be as digitally literate or familiar with the evolving landscape of online interfaces, can be more susceptible to misleading design that exploits confusion or misunderstanding.
Interactive Website
After further research we decided to create an interactive website. Since it can simulate real-world scenarios where dark patterns are encountered, providing hands-on experience in identifying and avoiding them. This practical approach can be more effective than theoretical explanations alone.
Research
Research Outcomes
8 PARTICIPANTS: 5 Older Adults & 3 Younger Adults
"...Spam…Have Been Really Intimidating To Me Since I Get Easily Manipulated"
— Participant, Age 61"...Too Long Of Unskippable Ads [Makes Me] Frustrated…"
— Participant, Age 19"You Feel Like You Are Being Stalked…"
— Participant, Age 56OLDER USERS ARE MORE CONCERNED WITH POSSIBLE FINANCIAL LOSS
"I Get Scared Like They Might Be Hacking My Account Especially When I'm Doing Personal Finance."
— Participant, Age 56The Younger Generation Is More Concerned About Their Time
"Tik Tok Is Something I Feel Like (...) I Know In The Back Of My Head That Time Is Wasted When I Scroll Too Long."
— Participant, Age 19
Solution
The Design
After further research we decided to create an interactive website. Since it can simulate real-world scenarios where dark patterns are encountered, providing hands-on experience in identifying and avoiding them. This practical approach can be more effective than theoretical explanations alone.
Takeaway
Main Takeaway
As Future UX Professionals We Have Learned The Importance And Effectiveness Of Making Ethical Design Decisions Even When It Is Against Stakeholders Opinion!
THANK YOU FOR READING!