Measuring the world

Reflection
I've come across new tools for collecting data, encouraging me to consider the most appropriate ones for different situations. Some interventions don't necessarily require specific technology, and there are times when not relying on tech for data gathering can lead to unexpected outcomes.

During the seminar, we opted to use the noise sensor from the smart citizen kit, a tool unfamiliar to us. We encountered technical issues that made us rethink our reliance on technology. Reflecting on the situation, we realised we could have gathered data using our basic senses, like hearing. Consequently, we decided to record data using both methods — the smart citizen kit for one set of data and our own observations, noted in Nicolo's notebook, for what we heard.

The seminar also explored the idea of "smart cities vs smart citizen" in the scope of data collection. The concept of "smart citizens" offers a counterbalance to concerns about the potentially over-controlling nature of "smart cities." By empowering individuals with data and knowledge, smart citizens supports transparency and decentralized decision-making. This approach fosters a more democratic and participatory urban governance, addressing worries about privacy and centralized control. It underscores the importance of using technology to not only enhance efficiency but also to promote freedom and vibrant, engaged communities.