Research and Data
Prototype
This is a 3D model of what I'd like my bracelet to look like, with the cube representing the pack that contains the PiezoHapt actuator and the Arduino.
Mentor Involvement
Andrew Baggett, a former Academy student, helped me out a lot in the beginning process with the technology. He sent me helpful links as well as gave me specific and personal advice about how to best go about creating the vibrations in my bracelet. If I had been able to continue creating the bracelet with the technological pieces like I was supposed to, I would've continued to chat with Andrew through email and FaceTime, or in person.
Data & Analysis
82% of the 72 respondents said that they had trouble staying awake in class at least some of the time. In response to the question “If you answered "yes" or "sometimes," how difficult is it to stay awake in class?” 77% answered 3 or higher on a scale of 1-5, indicating that they had at least a moderately difficult time staying awake in class. On a scale of 0 to 5, with 0 being none at all and 5 being a huge interference, 72% of respondents answered with a 3 or higher. They thought that their sleep habits had at least a moderate interference with their performance at school. These three questions helped me understand, at least locally, how many students struggle with sleeping in class and how much of a problem it really is. The fact that the vast majority has some sort of issue with staying awake indicates a need for my product.
When I asked “If a device existed to help you stay awake in class, would you be interested in using it?” nearly half of respondents answered “maybe.” 36% answered “yes.” However, when I clarified that the device would be similar to an Apple Watch that vibrated, the “maybe” dropped to 33.3% and the “yes” dropped to 34%, which I largely attribute to the theory that most students wouldn’t know what to picture when given the vague image of “a device.” Additionally, although the positive reactions overall dropped, 14% of respondents had an improved reaction after the clarification. Because of this, I believe that as long as my website is clear about the design and function of the bracelet, I will receive very positive feedback.