Memory Bead System
Bead systems for tactile engagement. Assist with mnemonics like a rosary or kimoye beads or quipu knots. Five big beads with three smaller beads in between.
I was inspired by fidget spinners. Remember those annoying things that allegedly helped people focus while they distracted everyone else? While they may have helped some, I felt that there had to be a better approach. Something that aided focus, could be used unobtrusively and maybe even help with retention and recall.
Historically, cultures have used mnemonic aids for assisting individuals with memorizing vast amounts of information, especially in pre and semi literate groups.
Modern soldiers use ranger bead pace counting, which reminds me of one string of beads on an abacus.
Prayer beads and rosaries are used for keeping count, and in South America kuipo knots were used by the Inca empire.
I wanted to start simple. I wanted to make something easy to make and easy to use and adaptable for a variety of purposes.
Supplies
Beads, two different sizes
Paracord, string
Paracord, string
Making the Bracelets
I settled on five big beads with three smaller beads in between them. It is part of my design heuristics, and is part of the Fibonacci series plus a couple of other cool math things. When making my prototypes I used paracord, wooden big beads and plastic pony beads. They were tactile and tactical looking, which I figured might appeal to touch sensitive people and rowdier types.
I discovered that the local dollar store has elastic ties and headbands were a similar thickness to paracord and the elasticity was an added value.
Having been in proximity to many artisans, I knew that there were a plethora of ways to make them. Unfortunately, I never really paid too much attention and so had to research the solutions myself. It was a great experience and an excellent way to spend time at my favorite place, the library.
I wanted to research mnemonic systems and try to codify them. I wanted to partner with education professionals who could help with developing the system for students.
They're useful as worry beads, and keeping lists, a kind of outline. Main topics are the big beads, etc.
I discovered that the local dollar store has elastic ties and headbands were a similar thickness to paracord and the elasticity was an added value.
Having been in proximity to many artisans, I knew that there were a plethora of ways to make them. Unfortunately, I never really paid too much attention and so had to research the solutions myself. It was a great experience and an excellent way to spend time at my favorite place, the library.
I wanted to research mnemonic systems and try to codify them. I wanted to partner with education professionals who could help with developing the system for students.
They're useful as worry beads, and keeping lists, a kind of outline. Main topics are the big beads, etc.