03/02/2026 - 17/03/2026 (Week 01 - Week 07)
PHANG QI YU / 0385732
Intercultural Design / Bachelor of Design in Creative Media / Taylors
University
Final Compilation & Reflection
Table of Content
INSTRUCTIONS
LECTURES
WEEK 01 | Culture & Design
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Visual are powerful persuasive medium to provide most of our
information about the world.
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40% of people respond more to visuals than to
text.
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90% of information transmitted to the brain is
visual.
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Visuals are processed 60,000x faster in the brain than
text.
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Visuals are everything that can be seen, produced or created by
humans that can be seen.
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"Designers need to be aware of cultural nuances, symbolism, and
context to create designs that are inclusive and resonate with diverse
audiences."
Design Significance:
Figure 1 Design Significance
(lecture slides)
Design System:
Figure 2 Design System
(lecture slides)
Design Sensitivity:
-
Symbolism & Imagery: Some symbols and images may
carry different meanings in different cultures. Designers should be mindful of potential cultural interpretations
to avoid unintended misunderstandings or offense.
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Typography & Language: Choosing fonts and text styles are
important.
Considering language variations and ensuring accurate translations
is crucial for reaching diverse audiences.
-
Color Considerations: Colors may carry
different meanings and cultural significance across cultures.
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Inclusive Design: We should try to
create products and experiences that are accessible and
inclusive for people from various cultural backgrounds, including
those with different abilities and needs.
-
Localization: Adapting designs to specific cultural contexts
through localization can
enhance the relevance and acceptance of a product or service.
-
User Research: Conducting through user research (ethnographic
studies and user testing across diverse groups) helps designers
gain insights into cultural preferences and behaviors.
-
Cultural Awareness Training: Develop a
deeper understanding of diverse perspectives and
sensitivities.
WEEK 02 | Impact VS Decoration
- A good design does more than look good.
-
"If you remove the visuals, what is left? If the answer is
nothing, the design has failed."
-
"Good design is not louder or prettier ━ it is clearer, kinder, and more useful."
Figure 3 Impact = Behavior
(lecture slides)
WEEK 03 | Chinese New Year Holiday
WEEK 04 | Task 2: Briefing
-
Sir has uploaded the project briefing video from the
lecture class. We are encouraged to manage our time and
begin working on Task 2.
WEEK 05 | Online Briefing
-
We were briefed about Task 2 and were told that we need to gather
information and consult with our lecturer individually. Sir answered
a few of our questions and mentioned that he will brief us about the
final project during the upcoming face-to-face class.
WEEK 06 | No Lecture
-
This week, there is no lecture class. We were asked to have a
meeting with our group members to discuss and develop ideas for
our final project. During the F2F class, Mr. Max will consult
us, so we need to show clear progress to him.
WEEK 07 | Final Week: Submission Deadline
-
No lecture this week. As the final week of the semester, all
assignments must be completed and submitted by the end of the week
Task 1: Proposal
The general theme for Task 1 is
“Designing Urban Futures.”
We will be divided into several teams to explore urban mobility experiences
within a city, focusing on how people move through and interact with urban
environments.
We are required to produce a minimum of three preliminary ideas presented
through detailed sketches, each supported by an individual rationale. In
addition, we must develop a 200-word written piece that defines and
interprets the theme in relation to the selected elements. Appropriate
citations are required to support the research and provide evidence for the
ideas presented.
The first physical class was held in Week 1 (04/02/26), and during this class,
we formed a group of six based on the lecturers’ requirements.
Here are my group members:
- Ayesha Reena Khan
- Lim Li Wei
- Low Soon Ern
- Phang Qi Yu
- Emir Azlan
- Eric Koh
WEEK 01 | Ideas Proposed & Preliminary Research
Ideas Proposed
Figure 4 Ideas Proposed (PDF)
We proposed several preliminary ideas and received feedback from Mr. Max. The
mobility experience concepts we presented include a cooling pod, an EV road
charger, and a reversible lane system.
Preliminary Research
We worked together to do more research and further explore Malaysia’s urban
future development.
Here is our preliminary research:
Figure 5
Preliminary Research Slides (PDF)
WEEK 02 & 03 | Topic Selection & Proposal Presentation
We decided to present all three ideas in our proposal. We assigned two people
to each idea. The distribution is as follows:
Proposal Idea 1: Cooling Pod (Ayesha Reena Khan & Emir Azlan)
Proposal Idea 2: EV Road Charger (Lim Li Wei & Phang Qi Yu)
Proposal Idea 3: Reversible Lane (Low Soon Ern & Eric Koh)
After our proposal slides were approved by Mr. Max, he informed us that we
could begin preparing for our online presentation. We were asked to give a
10minute online presentation to introduce our proposal slides. Our group
used Zoom for the presentation, and everything went smoothly. After the
presentation, Mr. Max will approve only one final idea out of the
three.
★ Final Topic Selection: Reversible Lane (Proposal Idea 3) ★
Mr. Max has chosen Reversible Lane as our group's main final topic. He
mentioned that this idea has the strongest potential for urban mobility
research. It allows us to study real human behavior, decision-making and
cultural attitudes toward traffic systems, especially during peak
hours.
He said we can keep the Cooling Pod (Idea 1) as a secondary research angle
only, because it is too technical and system-focused for intercultural field
research in this module. Unfortunately, the EV Road Charger (Idea 3) will
not be continued, as it is also too technical and system-driven for this
module.
We will move on to Task 2. However, Mr. Max asked us to watch the task
briefing video and review the requirement before we begin.
✅ Proposal Idea 3: Reversible Lane
❗ Proposal Idea 1: Cooling Pod
❌ Proposal Idea 2: EV Road Charger
Final Task 1: Proposal Slides
Figure 6
Final Proposal Slides (PDF)
Final Task 1: Presentation Video Recording
Video 1
Presentation Video Recording (Zoom)
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Task 2: Field Study & Data Collection
For Task 2, Mr. Max instructed us to prioritize collecting visual, oral,
textual, and behavioral artefacts, such as:
-
Lane markings, traffic signals, signage, and peak-hour traffic
behavior
- Driver reactions, hesitation, misuse, and level of compliance
-
Heat-related waiting behavior and informal shelter use (as supporting
research)
-
Cultural attitudes toward rules, personal comfort, and shared road
space
Mr. Max asked us to document everything clearly, and he will refine our
direction again after our field study.
WEEK 04 | Data Collection
This week do not have F2F session, we are required to complete our
field study and collect relevant data/artefact. We are expected to
conduct further primary research, including observations and analysis of
traffic in Malaysia, as our task focuses on road systems.
Suggested Data Collection Methods:
- Observation Study
- Interview with relevant stakeholders
-
Online and/or actual physical material (visual research of the
selected area) such as the
people/arts/symbols/architecture/text/calligraphy etc.
Artefacts can be in any form: photos, videos, observation write-ups,
physical artefacts like journal, books, brochure etc. and any related
forms. Artefacts collected should have explanations or rationales to
bridge the information between your proposal and your proposed final
output.
Data Collection Methods:
1. Online Research
My group members, Lim Li Wei and Low Soon Ern, conducted further
research on cultural attitudes toward rules, the cost of reversible
lanes, example of similar implantations in other countries, the
differences before and after implementing a reversible lane, common
misconceptions about reversible lanes, and explored the use of shared
road space.
2. Google Form Survey
We conducted a survey on driver reactions during peak hours, focusing on
hesitation, misuse, and compliance on the road. The aim was to examine
Malaysians’ perceptions of, and responses to, the Reversible Lane. Eric
and I were responsible for creating the questions in the Google Form.
The survey included 19 questions and was promoted across our social
media. We successfully reached our target of 40 responses!
Figure 7 & 8 Reversible Lane Questionnaire
We analyzed the survey responses and summarized the findings,
providing explanations and rationales for each question.
Figure 9
Survey Responses Summary (PDF)
3. Field Study
We wanted to understand the traffic conditions in Malaysia. So, Ayesha
and Emir focused on the area near our school, specifically Subang LDP
(Lebuhraya Damansara Puchong), to take photos and videos and observe the
daily traffic situation. We conducted this field study to examine the
traffic problems more closely. By observing the peak-hour traffic flow,
we were able to determine the most suitable time and location to
implement the reversible lane.
Figure 10
Observations from a field study on traffic condition in Malaysia
WEEK 05 | Finalized Data
After gathering all the collected data, we compiled it into slides
for Mr. Max to review. He mentioned that the overall content was
satisfactory but suggested that we further improve the field study
section and the survey summary. He advised us to include our own
perspectives and analysis based on the photos we had taken during
the field study. For the summary section, he recommended adding a
comprehensive conclusion at the end to better summarize the overall
responses. The PDF survey attached above (fig 9) is the updated
version of the Google Form survey summary and rationale.
Below are the final Task 2 slides. All collected data and field
study images have been compiled and presented in the slides!
Final Task 2: Field Study & Data Collection Slides
Figure 11
Final Field Study & Data Collection Slides (PDF)
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Task 3: Final Project
After updating Task 2, everything is now complete. Mr. Max
also guided us with several ideas and tips on what we should
focus on for the final task. He suggested that we design:
-
A system proposal
– including
signage, lane control, and public communication.
-
A behavior and trust strategy
– focusing on how to
reduce confusion, prevent misuse, and support public
compliance.
WEEK 06 | Visual Design & Concept
Based on the Task 3 brief, our final project should be
developed from our proposal and the research/data collection
conducted in Task 2. The final submission will require a
suitable visual design outcome, along with a presentation
deck documenting our progress from the proposal stage to the
final project.
To Do List:
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Idea Development / Concept Explanation
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Progression Sketches / Visual Exploration (produce a
minimum of
two sketches
showing the development of the design idea).
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Application of Task 2 Findings (explain how the
research and data collected in Task 2
inform and influence the design decisions).
-
Medium / Format / Execution Plan
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Incomplete Areas / Questions (identify any unfinished parts of the project and
note any doubts or questions that need clarification.
Concept Development & Visual Design
Our group members, Emir and Ayesha, designed the reversible
lane in a rough sketch. Below are the first draft sketches
drawn by Emir.
Figure 12 & 13
First Draft Sketches (Procreate)
In addition, Soon Ern and I designed different signboards for
the reversible lane to address the issue that many drivers have
commented on, which is the lack of clear signage or proper
reversible lane signboards. Below are the first draft sketches
of ideas for the reversible lane signboards.
Figure 14
Signboard Concept (1)
Figure 15
Signboard Concept (2)
Figure 16
Navigation App Signboard Concept (3)
Figure 17
Signboard Concept (4)
Figure 18
Signboard Concept (5)
After presenting our initial sketch ideas (shown in the
figures above) to Mr. Max, he raised several questions and
asked us to address them before implementing the reversible
lane system. In response, Emir and Ayesha proposed another
idea: installing a reversible lane pole to clearly
differentiate the reversible lane from the other lanes. The
pole would automatically lift up and down at predetermined
times to control the lane direction. The following are the
questions raised by Mr. Max that need to be addressed before
implementing the reversible lane system. Once these issues
are resolved, we can then consider adding additional
functions to the lane, such as the signboard concepts shown
above.
Questions to Be Addressed:
-
What should be the distance between each reversible lane
pole?
-
What would happen if the pole lifted up/down while a
vehicle is still in lane or stuck in the middle?
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How can drivers on curved or uneven roads (e.g. uphill, of
downhill curves) clearly see the reversible lane
signboards?
-
When should the reversible lane signboards be displayed to
alert drivers? For example, how far in advance (in
kilometers) should drivers be notified about the
reversible lane?
WEEK 07 | Final Design & Final Presentation
Final Task 3 Design: Reversible Lane
Figure 19
Final Reversible Lane Design Sketch
The figure above presents our Task 3 reversible lane
design. Signboards will be placed along the roadside
to inform drivers that a reversible lane is
ahead. Bollards will be installed in the center and along
the third lane on both sides of the road to guide
traffic. Bollards are short vertical posts placed on
roads/sidewalks to control traffic or protect areas from vehicles. Retractable streetlights will be placed in the middle
of the road. Below is an explanation of how the bollards and
streetlights work.
Figure 20
Bollards and Streetlights System (PDF)
The figure below is a sketch by Emir and Ayesha. It shows a top view of the road layout, including the placement of bollards and streetlights. The bollards are installed in the middle of the road to act as lane dividers, while streetlights are placed alongside them to improve visibility and help drivers clearly understand the lane directions.
Figure 21
Top View of Road Layout
Final Task 3: Final Design & Presentation Slides
Figure 22
Final Design & Presentation Slides (PDF)
For more detailed information about our reversible
lane, please refer to our slides! The final presentation video should be no longer than
10 minutes. All team members are required to attend, but
not everyone need to speak. We decided that each person will present their assigned part.
Final Task 3: Presentation Video Recording
Video 2
Presentation Video Recording (Zoom)
FEEDBACK
WEEK 01
➼ There was no feedback in the first week.
WEEK 02
➼ Mr. Max gave us feedback
on each idea we proposed. He said all three ideas are acceptable, but we
need to do more research to show how they can benefit Malaysia. We need to
explain the advantages of each idea and give clear reasons. He also said
that the design is not important for this first task. We should focus on
doing deeper research first.
WEEK 03
➼ This week, we completed our proposal slides and sent them to Mr. Max
for review. He mentioned that our group’s ideas are well-structured and that
we are ready to proceed with the proposal recording (online
presentation). Next, we will continue to improve and enhance our
proposal, especially focusing on the design aspects in Task 2.
WEEK 04
➼ Mr. Max made a final decision from the three proposal ideas we presented.
After selecting the chosen proposal, we were ready to move on to the next
task. He also provided us with several guidelines on where and how to
begin.
WEEK 05
➼ Mr. Max reviewed our Task 2 progression and asked us to update it
by including on-site observations, human input, and clear insights.
We will update him again once the adjustments are complete, and
after receiving his approval, we can proceed to Task 3.
WEEK 06
➼ This week, we showed Mr. Max our Task 3 sketches and explained our concept
to him. He pointed out several mistakes and raised questions about the idea.
He asked us to further analyze the problems and find solutions first. After
resolving these issues, we can consider adding additional functions to our
idea. The due date for Task 3 is 20/3/26, so we need to complete all the work and
prepare for the Task 3 presentation as well.
WEEK 07
➼ This week is the last week of the semester. We gave Mr. Max a final review of
our Task 3 project slides. He said our slides look good overall, and the
design solution from Task 3 is much more refined! We can now start recording
our online presentation.
REFLECTIONS
Task 1 Reflection
➼ To conclude, this was my first task, so I was quite confused about how and
where to start. Luckily, our group leader guided us throughout the process,
and we were able to work together to complete all the research and finish
the slides on time. During our first consultation with Mr. Max, he pointed
out several mistakes and areas that needed improvement. After receiving his
feedback, we made the necessary corrections and improved our work. I am very
happy with the progress our group has made. We held a meeting to discuss the
task, divided the work clearly, and completed everything efficiently.
Through this research task, I learned more about the future development of
my country, Malaysia, and gained a better understanding of future trends and
new innovations. It was an interesting and meaningful experience because it
introduced me to many ideas that I had never thought about before. Overall,
our group successfully completed the task, and I am proud of the effort and
teamwork we put into this project.
Task 2 Reflection
➼ In this task, I realized
that proposing an idea and supporting it with strong research is truly
important. I learned a great deal about searching, exploring, and observing
different perspectives from various people and articles. Even when discussing
a single topic, people can have many different viewpoints. Therefore, it is
essential for us to gather their feedback, review it carefully, and find
additional information to strengthen our arguments. I also feel that this task
helped me become more responsible. Due to the limited time given, we had to
complete it within a short period, which trained my self-discipline and time
management skills. My teammates and I worked collaboratively to complete the
task; we supported one another and shared constructive suggestions throughout
the process. Moreover, in this task, we were able to deeply analyze the
responses from our Google Form survey. This part was especially important
because we needed to gather the public’s point of view on the reversible lane.
I was responsible for this section, and I was initially worried that the
survey questions might contain mistakes or cause confusion. However, it turned
out to be a valuable learning experience. As it was my first time being
assigned to summarize survey results, collect numerous responses, organize the
data, and analyze each one carefully, I gained significant experience and
confidence. To sum up, this has been a memorable experience for me. I hope my
groupmates enjoyed working with me, and I look forward to work together with
them on Task 3 soon!
Task 3 Reflection
➼ In this final task, I really enjoyed working with my groupmates.
The most unforgettable part of Intercultural Design was our discussions
about the final design of the reversible lane. Each of us shared
different perspectives and interesting ideas, and it was fun to see how
many unusual and creative ideas came up! I truly felt that we all
enjoyed these moments of discussion. It was amazing how quickly we progressed from Task 1 to Task 3. We
worked together, supported each other, and completed everything on time.
This module has been a great opportunity to develop teamwork skills and
cultivate personal responsibility. Through this task, I realized that communication and critical thinking are important, both are key to success. I would like to give a special thanks to our
group leader for guiding us through each task. Everyone did a great job
completing their individual responsibilities while helping
others. Finally, I want to thank Mr. Max for his helpful feedback. His guidance
and frequent updates helped us improve and stay on track. I really
enjoyed working in a team with my groupmates, and I am grateful to
everyone for making this experience enjoyable and productive.
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