Purdue Libraries and School of Information Studies News

Designing with empathy: A student prototype created in the Knowledge Lab

January 28th, 2026

During the spring 2025 semester, undergraduate student Kennedi Thomas, now a senior double-majoring in communication and anthropology, collaborated with classmates Rishika Ramakrishnan, Beck Spieth, and Isabel Baron on a semester-long project for the “Designing Technology for People” course (ANTH 384/TECH 220) taught by Sarah Renkert and Shawn Farrington. The class challenged students to apply human-centered design principles by selecting a user group and developing a product that addressed real-world challenges. From a wide range of potential user groups, the team chose to focus on individuals who menstruate.

The goal of the project was to design a product that would reduce challenges and improve the everyday experiences of people who menstruate. While menstruation is a common part of life for many people, it is still surrounded by stigma and often overlooked in design and technology spaces. This made it a meaningful and impactful focus for the team’s work.

The design process

To begin the design process, the group conducted ethnographic research to understand the needs and experiences of their user group. Team members used a variety of approaches, including interviews with family members, personal documentation during menstruation, and observational research. As part of this process, Kennedi accompanied a friend while she purchased menstrual pads, allowing the team to observe the experience and decision-making process in real time.

One of the challenges the group encountered during research was navigating cultural norms and family stigmas surrounding menstruation. Some participants were open and comfortable discussing the topic, while others were more hesitant. The team made a conscious effort to approach these conversations with sensitivity and respect, ensuring that participants felt safe and heard throughout the research process.

After synthesizing their findings, the team identified several key insights. Users emphasized the importance of discrete, non-invasive solutions and expressed concerns about the amount of waste produced during their menstrual cycles. These insights directly informed the team’s design direction.

Creating the prototype

In response, the group developed the concept for a portable cleaning pouch designed to allow users to wash and dry reusable menstrual products discreetly and conveniently in any location. The product aimed to reduce waste while minimizing inconvenience and maintaining privacy for the user.

The team moved from ideation to prototyping in the Knowledge Lab, where they created a low-fidelity prototype of their design. Using materials provided in the space—including fabric, zippers, and buckles—the team constructed a functional pouch that mimicked the intended materials of the final product. Sewing machines in the lab were used to assemble the components, and 3D-printed bristles created by a teammate were incorporated into the design to support the cleaning function.

Competition results

At the end of the semester, all student teams presented their design processes and final products. Kennedi’s team was selected as one of four finalists to compete in the Designing Technology for People Competition. The group ultimately earned first place and was awarded a scholarship in recognition of their thoughtful research, innovative design, and effective use of campus resources such as the Knowledge Lab.

This project highlights how Purdue Libraries’ collaborative spaces empower students to transform research and ideas into tangible solutions. By combining ethnographic research, hands-on prototyping, and access to specialized tools, students are able to design with empathy and create technologies that address real human needs.