iReal 

Design Implications for Supporting Youth Prototyping of Future Wireless Communication Systems
Jin Yu, Karina Bhattacharya, Junzhe Yan, Sherry Hsi, HyunJoo Oh  [PDF]
​Submitted to International Journal of CoCreation in Design and the Arts (Under Review)
Overview
iReal is a tangible toolkit designed to help youth co-design and prototype functional wireless communication technologies. Combining Tangible Coding Blocks (TCB) with Accordion Design Templates (ADT), iReal allows young learners to build devices that reflect their everyday needs, values, and creativity, bridging the gap between idea and implementation.
Iterative Development Process 
iReal was developed over a 16-month iterative process involving multiple rounds of design, testing, and refinement. 
Key Design Implications Learned from the Iteration
  • Simplicity Supports Confidence: Streamlining interactions and minimizing fragile or complex components reduces intimidation and fosters a sense of agency, especially important when designing for beginners or non-experts.
  • Separating Form and Function: Treating interaction logic and physical form as distinct stages can lower cognitive load. 
  • Early Wins Build Momentum: Designing toolkits that offer quick, tangible results, such as visible feedback or successful assembly, can help users stay motivated and reduce the fear of failure.
Why iReal?
  • Functional Prototyping: Moves youth beyond ideation into making real, working devices.
  • Hands-On & Expressive: Supports both interaction logic and physical form design.
  • Accessible for Beginners: Designed to be used in 5–6 hour workshops with no prior experience.

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Example Projects suggested by Youth
  • A discreet communication belt for expressing romantic interest among peers without embarrassment.
  • A head-motion-controlled gaming headset designed for players with speech impairments to communicate during play.
  • A music-reactive wearable that shares mood through emoji signals, inspired by Latinx cultural practices around music.
  • A peer-to-peer safety accessory that activates a wearable fan when it detects rising ambient temperatures.
Where to Learn More: iReal Journal Paper (Preprint)