Masters Thesis
UX Research, Data Visualisation
This case study explores a UX research project that investigated how individuals build a sense of belonging when relocating to new environments. The research uncovered that belonging is not a destination but a dynamic, non-linear journey shaped by the interplay between familiar and unfamiliar elements.
Brief:
“How do individuals redefine and navigate their sense of belonging through the interplay of familiar and unfamiliar elements during their adaptation to new environments?”
Roles:
Product Designer
Timeline:
5 months - Masters Thesis
The Journey in a nutshell.
Challenge
In today's increasingly mobile society, people frequently relocate, creating a recurring challenge of how to establish meaningful connections in unfamiliar places. This research aimed to understand the relationship between familiarity and belonging, investigating how individuals redefine their sense of belonging when adapting to new environments.
Process
Conducted a 12-week qualitative research project progressing through seven distinct phases with 24+ participants who had experienced relocation. The research evolved from understanding what belonging fundamentally means to different people, then investigating whether adaptation serves as the new pathway to belonging, exploring if familiarity is the root mechanism for adaptation, and ultimately discovering that familiarity alone doesn't guarantee belonging in new environments. The study culminated in creating shared experiences among participants navigating similar transitions.
Methodology
Used diverse research methods including literature review, metaphor elicitation ("Belonging is like..."), assumption-storming, semi-structured interviews covering adaptation experiences, participatory visual exercises, and longitudinal photo documentation tracking. Applied a unique formula (Month 1 photo count × 12) ÷ Total photos over the year to measure familiarity changes, and conducted group discussions for collective reflection and validation.
Insights
Belonging is simultaneously everywhere and nowhere—a dynamic, non-linear journey rather than a fixed destination where people can feel both connected and alienated within the same context. Participants took 2-4 times fewer photos as familiarity increased over their first year, with clear behavioral patterns emerging: Month 1 focused on objects recreating previous homes, Month 3 on place exploration, Month 6 on people connections, and Month 12 showing balanced integration of all elements.
Outcome
Developed a reflective framework repositioning belonging as a continuous journey of exploration rather than a problem to be solved. Created a documentary collection including temporal flashcards, reflective booklets, and shared experience guides that validate individual experiences while creating solidarity among those experiencing transition, providing a transferable tool for future relocations.
