StoryBeads: Preserving Indigenous Knowledge through Tangible Interaction Design

This paper addresses the need to preserve culturally unique knowledge for future generations. This user-centered design-research case study focused on preserving Indigenous Knowledge (IK) of the South-African BaNtwane culture, specifically focusing on their rich beadwork and oral traditions. Our approach allows for design research in a scenario where the community is represented by a few prominent members, simultaneously making provision for the incorporation of modern technology in a society trailing in technology adoption. The study resulted in a recording device that fits the target group´s oral tradition and is based on a concept in which oral stories are recorded and associated with tangible beads that can be incorporated into traditional beadwork. The device and interaction design embraces the culture´s aesthetics and existing IK mechanisms.