First Coaching Session – Laying the Foundation

Category: Reflection, Process

1. Introduction

On January 8th, I had my first coaching session on campus, where I introduced my project concept, discussed TouchDesigner experimentation, and set up key resources for my work.

The session covered:

  • Presenting my initial pitch and research question.
  • Discussing my early experiments in TouchDesigner.
  • Finding essential learning resources to build foundational skills.
  • Securing a Windows laptop for body tracking experiments.
  • Talking about lending a projector later in the process.
  • Setting the expectation to prepare a structured planning for next week.

This session helped lay the foundation for my project, ensuring I had the tools and guidance needed to move forward.

2. Key Topics Discussed

Presenting My Project Concept

Since this was my first meeting with my coach, I started by walking through my initial pitch presentation, explaining:

  • The core idea of my interactive installation.
  • Why I chose TouchDesigner for this project.
  • The role of motion tracking and body interaction in my setup.

Coach’s Response:

  • He understood the concept and agreed that TouchDesigner was a good choice.
  • No major feedback on the initial pitch, allowing me to move forward with my plan.

Early TouchDesigner Experimentation

At this stage, I had only done initial tests in TouchDesigner but nothing fully functional yet. I was mainly exploring the interface and basic workflows through YouTube tutorials.

Coach’s Response:

  • He mentioned that he had some experience in TouchDesigner but nothing advanced.
  • He recommended a fundamentals course, covering core principles that would be useful in the long run.

Next Steps:

  • Complete the recommended TouchDesigner course to solidify my knowledge.

Setting Up for Body Tracking

One of my biggest concerns at this point was testing body tracking. I had come across the Bodytrack CHOP, which would let me explore body tracking without needing a Kinect. However, this tool was only available on Windows, and I did not have access to a Windows PC.

Coach’s Response:

  • He immediately found a Windows laptop and provided it to me after the session, giving me the resources I needed to proceed.

Next Steps:

  • Start testing the Bodytrack CHOP on the Windows laptop.

Lending a Projector (Later in the Process)

Since my installation would require projection mapping, I asked about borrowing a projector from the school.

Coach’s Response:

  • He confirmed that projectors were available, but I needed to build out a working prototype first before they would lend one.

Next Steps:

  • Develop a functional base setup before requesting a projector.

Planning for the Next Weeks

To ensure I stayed on track, my coach asked me to prepare a structured planning for the next coaching session. This would help:

  • Estimate the time required for different tasks.
  • Identify key milestones and potential challenges.
  • Give a clearer view of my workflow.

Next Steps:

  • Create a detailed project timeline for the next session.

3. Key Takeaways from the Coaching Session

1. The Project Direction is Clear

  • My coach approved my pitch and research focus, allowing me to proceed.

2. TouchDesigner Learning Resources Are Essential

  • I need to complete a fundamentals course to strengthen my foundation.

3. Windows PC Access is a Game Changer

  • Securing a Windows laptop now allows me to test body tracking properly.

4. Projector Access Will Come Later

  • A functional prototype is required before I can borrow a projector from school.

5. Planning is a Priority for Next Week

  • I need to map out my workload and define a structured timeline.

4. Next Steps

  • Work through the recommended TouchDesigner fundamentals course.
  • Start testing the Bodytrack CHOP on the Windows laptop.
  • Develop an early prototype to qualify for a projector later.
  • Prepare a structured planning for the next coaching session.

This first coaching session was crucial in setting up a clear direction, ensuring I had access to the right tools, and establishing a strong foundation for the project.