Joyce Lin

Mary Gates Research Scholar, Autumn 2021

Research Project: Music Accessibility for d/Deaf and Hard of Hearing People

Project Description: d/Deaf and Hard of Hearing people face different cultural norms around the value of music and face access barriers to engaging with music in various social and physical environments. This generative research study aims to identify opportunities to and design a prototype that improves music access based on the values of the d/Deaf and HoH community.

What have you learned throughout your research project?

I’ve learned how to be human-centered in all aspects of the research and design process. As hard of hearing researcher, and interviewing d/Deaf, hoh, and other disabled participants, I’ve learned how to navigate the various access issues within academic research and to come up with alternatives to traditional research methods. 

What piece of advice do you have for future applicants?

Be creative when you need to problem solve hiccups in your research project! Always ask questions when you’re stuck, keep reviewing literature in the field and be constantly learning, and be diligent with your research plan. Budget time and flexibility for any setbacks along the way.