Author Archives: Alison Kidd
Does IR heating keep you warm without wasting energy?
In terms of domestic heating, the UK faces a major challenge from the combination of fossil fuel reduction, the rising cost of energy and our poorly insulated housing stock. We need to find ways to keep people comfortably and affordably … Continue reading
Experiencing an Idea Fund project live at ‘Hot in Here’ performance
Thoroughly enjoyable visit to Bath this week to meet Pigfoot Theatre and see their energy harvesting dance floor tiles (funded through our ‘I’ve got an idea’ fund) in action in their powerful & joyous ”Hot in Here’ performance. Well done … Continue reading
Researching households who use Infrared heating
This month, I’m interviewing 20 UK households who are heating their homes with Infrared heating. How do they use it? How well does it work for them? How much energy does it use? As an experimental psychologist, I’m trying to … Continue reading
How to plan a research project
I thought this guide might be over simplistic but actually it makes some very useful points and I strongly recommend a read. I certainly was reminded of mistakes I’ve made in my multiple research projects over the years.
Is it bad to be “Economically Inactive”?
Listening to the Radio 4 Today programme this morning, someone was being interviewed about the current problem of high job vacancy rates partly as a result of the growth in “inactive” people following the Covid epidemic. “Inactive” it seems has … Continue reading
Inspiration from William Blake
“William Blake knew what we all eventually realize, if we are awake and courageous enough: that the best way — and the only effective way — to complain about the way things are is to make new and better things, … Continue reading
Update on Melodica Sound Chamber project
Great to get an update on Connell’s project. https://connellmcbride.com/2022/08/01/melodica-case-design/
‘I’ve got an idea’ fund reopens
As of today (01/08/2022), our idea fund is open again for applications. Last award – Fibe Team – Creating textiles from potato harvest waste
Melodicas & Potatoes – 2 new Idea Fund Awards
We are delighted to announce our latest two ‘I’ve got an idea Fund’ awards for individuals and small organisations who have a technical idea that they want to test out to see if they can make it work. Fibe – … Continue reading
Just started a mini natural regeneration experiment
I’ve written up here the motivation and why it interests me as an experimental psychologist. Watch this space if you are going to be around for the next 50 years or so!
The Prospectory 