This course introduces students to the theoretical and practical aspects of design evolving processes. The course presents the varied palette of design from design of physical objects, to design of human-computer interactions, to design of services, to design of micro systems and connected/complex systems. It offers tasks that initiate the process of learning fundamental skills such as observation & representation, investigation, analyisation, synthesisation, conceptualization, reflections, projection, visualization & representation.
Topics such as Design Processes, Design Perspectives, Design Context & Concerns, Problem Solving Methods, Idea Generation, User-Focused Thinking and Basic Communication are covered during the course. It also introduces students to various stages of problem solving process from problem identification to investigation and analysis of needs as well as tools and techniques used for generation, iteration, evolution and communication of ideas and design concepts.
This course helps sensitize students to study the social, cultural and physical environment in which his/her design has to operate, so that the design has a meaning or relevance to the people concerned.
Broadly, the course gives students the opportunity to develop essential design thinking skills such as exploring the designed space to identify problem, applying the design thinking process to problems, visualizing design solutions, refining final designs and communicating ideas in visually appropriate form through assignments and projects.
Develop the ability to identify, reflect, analyze and evaluate an issue or problem, keeping subjective views of all stakeholders in mind, in order to develop insights, which can help develop well defined problem statement.
Develop the ability to empathise with the 'other' while developing the ability to reflect critically on the designer 'self' thus developing the ability to create scenarios and initiate, express and communicate concepts.
Develop the ability to select methodologies and develop processes in problem solving and apply it to simple problems.
Develop the ability to engage in complex problem solving and to create collaborations engaging by planning and generating design solutions in a more holistic approach, which includes all stakeholders, systems, communities and complexities of issues.