Course Catalog Design
Design Emotion + Aesthetic Expression DES 350 The goal of this course is to explore the concepts of emotion and aesthetic expression. We will seek to understand how and why emotion and aesthetic expression are central concepts in the theory and practice of art and design. We seek a strategic perspective on art and design with particular attention to the concepts and methods of liberal arts. We seek to balance theory, practice and production, and encourage innovation and creativity. We will investigate concrete examples of emotional and aesthetic expression in a variety of traditional and new media in art and design, exploring different subject matter, materials, forms and purposes. Final grades will be based on two components: class participation and written assignments. 3 credits.
Design Research Methods DES 353 The goal of this course is to explore the methods by which designers come to understand user needs, feelings, expectations, and values. These methods are a preparation for developing breakthrough products— tangible and intangible—as well as interactions and services. We will explore several methods and their practical application in the design process to develop new products and test their usability and efficiency. Understanding user experience has become a central, distinguishing feature of the best product development, and our goal is to survey some of the best methods in current use. For example, we will learn how to build scenarios, interpret needs, generate and test ideas, visualize information and choreograph solutions. This involves interdisciplinary understanding, because many of the methods come from other fields. The growing complexity of products in our lives requires a wider understanding of how the social and behavioral sciences, together with the humanities and cultural sciences, are of deep value in the work of design. It requires, for example, an understanding of case study methodology, a matrix of methods of value for designers. It also requires deeper understanding of the underlying principles that
give meaning, create value, and direct the whole design process. The course will be based on readings, exercises, and a variety of practical projects that support studio work. Apply as studio elective or as art/craft/design history/theory liberal arts distribution requirement. 3 credits.
Design as Entrepreneurship I DES 356X The goal of this course is to integrate the disciplines of art, craft and design in a new form of creative practice. Through studio and seminar work we will focus on creative projects that can impact organizations and society at large. We will develop design and management skills, exploring the interdisciplinary relationship of design, innovation and entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship as a practice means inventing new ideas and developing them in ways that benefit people. Students will work in teams and will develop meaningful products that serve human beings in everyday life. We will explore tangible and intangible products that are useful, usable, and desirable. Intangible products may include human interactions, services, or systems—exploring the relationships among people, their activities, and the environment within which they live. Open to all juniors and seniors. 3 credits.
Design as Entrepreneurship II DES 357X The goal of this course is to integrate the disciplines of art, craft and design in a new form of creative practice. Through studio and seminar work we will focus on creative projects that can impact organizations and society at large. We will develop design and management skills, exploring the interdisciplinary relationship of design, innovation and entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship as a practice means inventing new ideas and developing them in ways that benefit people. Students will work in teams and will develope new meaningful products that serve human beings in everyday life. We will explore tangible and intagible products that are useful, usable, and desirable. Intangible products may include human interactions, services, or systems — exploring the relationships among people, their activities, and the environment within which they live. 3 credits.
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