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RESEARCH DEPARTMENT

HONORING BLACK DESIGN                                       VOICES=PEOPLE + CHOICES=CAREERS          

COMMUNITY RESOURCE ARCHIVE

MM-O-DD regularly features the talents and contributions of Black designers and believes there is a great need to further educate and spark the interest of specifically careers seeking individuals. The K-12 Detroit learners and others need accurate and inspiring information about Black Designers.  The geneological rich history is extensive and MM-O-DD resources has been oral histories capttured by Pulse TV and hosted by Greg Dunmore and captured by Joel Boykin. The data-based and research has been captured in the MM-O-DD ZINE started in 2022 by Rober Lett, the HBD Director. According to 2020 US Census, about 77% of Detroit’s population is identified as African American yet, according to the 2019 AIGA Design Census completed by AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Design), the oldest and largest professional associate for design, only 3% of U.S. designers across disciplines, self-identify as Black. As for our program targeted learners, according to Detroit Public Schools Community District’s most recent published information, 81.6% of its students are identified as Black. As such, MM-O-DD is a platform to elevate Black Design as a beacon of inspiration to the community of Detroit and, specifically, its up and coming younger generation of designers. More information from the US Census HERE.

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BREATHE BY DESIGN PROJECT

Breathwork Taps Tech and The Creative Zone 

Statement of Purpose

The Breath by Design Project is an innovative research initiative spearheaded by the Metropolitan Museum of Design Detroit (MM-O-DD), the only design-focused museum in Detroit and the United States' sole UNESCO City of Design. This project, rooted in MM-O-DD’s BRAINWORXX pillar, seeks to explore the intersection of design, holistic well-being, and breathwork practices. The primary goal is to investigate the effects of breath awareness and mindfulness techniques on individuals’ productivity, emotional resilience, and overall health, with a specific focus on mitigating the impact of “Tech Apnea.” This phenomenon, characterized by shallow or paused breathing during screen use, mirrors the symptoms of sleep apnea and has significant implications for mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

Research Objectives

  1. Understand the Prevalence and Impact of Tech Apnea: Identify patterns of Tech Apnea among participants, particularly within creative and business communities.

  2. Evaluate Breathwork’s Effectiveness: Measure the benefits of breathwork techniques, such as the cyclic sigh, in reducing stress, improving focus, and enhancing overall well-being.

  3. Develop Practical Interventions: Create actionable strategies to retrain breathing patterns during screen use and incorporate these into daily life and workplace practices.

  4. Promote Community Knowledge: Share findings with Detroit’s diverse communities and the broader public to foster awareness and implement solutions.

Research Methods

The Breath by Design Project employs both quantitative and qualitative research methods, integrating data from primary and secondary sources to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject.

Quantitative Methods:

  1. Surveys and Questionnaires: Participants will complete pre- and post-intervention surveys to measure baseline stress levels, productivity, and awareness of breathing habits.

  2. Biometric Monitoring: Track participants’ breathing patterns, heart rate variability, and other physiological markers during various activities, including screen use.

  3. Performance Metrics: Evaluate changes in focus, productivity, and task completion times.

Qualitative Methods:

  1. Interviews: Conduct in-depth interviews at three key phases over a 12-month period to capture personal experiences, challenges, and progress.

  2. Workshops and Discussions: Facilitate breathwork sessions, both in-person and virtually, to observe group dynamics and gather qualitative feedback.

  3. Case Studies: Develop detailed profiles of participants, including those from the same workplace and those unfamiliar with one another, to explore the effects of group dynamics.

Participant Groups

  1. Control Group: Individuals who will not undergo breathwork training to provide a baseline for comparison.

  2. Experimental Groups: Participants will be divided into the following categories:

    • Groups from the same workplace who regularly collaborate.

    • Groups of individuals who are unfamiliar with each other.

Participation will occur both in-person and virtually to accommodate different preferences and logistical needs.

Research Phases

  1. Phase 1 (January 2025 - December 2025): Recruitment and baseline data collection, including initial surveys, biometric monitoring, and interviews.

  2. Phase 2 (January 2026 - December 2026): Implementation of breathwork interventions, including workshops, training sessions, and individual practices.

  3. Phase 3 (January 2027 - December 2027): Follow-up interviews, final surveys, and analysis of long-term effects of breathwork.

Measurable Outcomes

  1. Reduction in Tech Apnea Symptoms: Measured through biometric data and self-reported experiences.

  2. Improved Well-being: Evaluated through surveys tracking stress, focus, creativity, and emotional resilience.

  3. Community Impact: Increased awareness and adoption of breathwork practices among Detroit’s diverse communities.

  4. Documentation and Knowledge Sharing: Comprehensive reports and presentations to share findings with the public, including practical guides and educational materials.

Timeline

The Breath by Design Project follows a five-year trajectory:

  • 2025: Recruitment, baseline data collection, and pilot workshops.

  • 2026: Full implementation of interventions.

  • 2027: Analysis of long-term outcomes through follow-up studies.

  • 2028-2030: Dissemination of findings and development of community resources.

Conclusion

The Breath by Design Project exemplifies MM-O-DD’s commitment to connecting design, wellness, and community. By addressing Tech Apnea and promoting the transformative power of breathwork, this research initiative aims to enhance productivity, emotional health, and overall well-being within Detroit and beyond. Through a rigorous and inclusive research approach, MM-O-DD seeks to empower individuals and foster a healthier, more mindful society.

MM-O-DD will announce details of our vitual and in-person events via social media and direct emails to our members. All enquires are via info@mm-o-dd.org 

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THANK YOU! We appreciate the support from local-to global partners, sponsors, civic alliances, organizations and individuals who value our mission. The result is a spark toward future workforce in Design and related fields. We do customize support opportunities surrounding programming and exhibitions. MM-O-DD is the only Design Museum in Detroit, which is the only designated UNESCO City of Design in the nation.

INFO@MM-O-DD.ORG

© 2025 Metropolitan Museum of Design Detroit

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