Participatory Action Research

Prototype gallery

The Prototype gallery is a participatory activity where participants create and showcase initial models or prototypes of ideas, products, services, or projects to receive constructive feedback from others. This approach promotes iteration, continuous improvement, and collaboration, allowing teams to refine their proposals through interaction with diverse perspectives.

Duration
From 2 to 4 hours, depending on the number of teams and the depth of the feedback. The activity can be adapted for shorter sessions or extended if time is included for iterating the prototypes.
Participants
From 10 to 30 people, organized into small teams to facilitate active participation and time management.
Prototype gallery

Preparation

01 · Define the objective
  • Establish the purpose of the prototypes: they can be solutions to a problem, product designs, service proposals, etc.
  • Clarify the criteria or aspects that will be evaluated during the feedback process (e.g., usability, innovation, impact).
02 · Gather materials
  • Materials for physical prototypes: cardboard, paper, modeling clay, adhesive tape, markers, etc.
  • Digital tools for virtual prototypes: design software, presentation tools, modeling applications.
  • Exhibition elements: tables, panels, whiteboards, labels.
03 · Physical or virtual space
  • Set up a spacious area where teams can display their prototypes and participants can move around comfortably.
  • If online, prepare a platform that allows sharing and commenting on digital prototypes (e.g., Miro, MURAL, Padlet).

Step-by-step instructions

1

Introduction to the purpose

  • Explain the objective of the activity and the importance of feedback in the design process.
  • Emphasize that prototypes are initial models, not final products; they are meant to be iterated and improved.
2

Team formation and prototype creation

  • Divide participants into small teams (3-5 people).
  • Each team works on developing a prototype of their idea using the available materials.
  • Set a time limit for creation (e.g., 60-90 minutes) to keep the activity dynamic.
3

Exhibition preparation

  • Once the prototypes are completed, teams set up their display space in the gallery.
  • They can include brief descriptions, images, diagrams, or any elements that help explain their prototype.
4

Gallery walk

  • Participants walk through the gallery, visiting other teams’ prototypes.
  • They can move in groups or freely, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to see each prototype.
5

Constructive feedback

  • Encourage visitors to provide constructive feedback.
  • You can provide sticky notes or feedback cards for participants to write their observations and leave them at each prototype station.
  • Suggest that feedback be specific, focusing on strengths and areas for improvement.
6

Team discussion

  • After the gallery walk, each team reviews the feedback they received.
  • They discuss how they can incorporate suggestions to improve their prototype.
  • Teams can plan future iterations or immediate adjustments.
7

Closure and reflection

  • Gather all participants to share insights and key learnings.
  • Reflect on the value of collaboration and feedback in the creative process.
  • Encourage teams to continue developing their ideas beyond the activity.

Materials

For physical prototypes:
  • Paper, cardboard, modeling clay, wooden sticks, fabric, etc.
  • Scissors, glue, adhesive tape.
  • Markers, colored pencils.
Paper, cardboard, modeling clay, wooden sticks, fabric, etc.
Scissors, glue, adhesive tape.
Markers, colored pencils.
For digital prototypes:
  • Computers or tablets.
  • Design software.
  • Internet access and collaborative tools.
Computers or tablets.
Design software.
Internet access and collaborative tools.
For the exhibition:
  • Tables or panels to display prototypes.
  • Labels or posters with the project name and team.
  • Sticky notes or feedback cards.
Tables or panels to display prototypes.
Labels or posters with the project name and team.
Sticky notes or feedback cards.
Digital tools

Platforms

For virtual sessions or collaborative documentation.

Practical recommendations

Encourage a respectful and open environment

Ensure that feedback is constructive and that everyone feels comfortable sharing and receiving comments.

Variety of materials

Provide a range of materials so teams can be creative in representing their ideas.

Time management

Set clear time limits for each stage of the activity and communicate them to participants.

Documentation

Encourage teams to document their prototypes and the feedback received for future reference.

Adaptability

The activity can be adjusted to include multiple rounds of prototyping and feedback, promoting deeper iterations.