Class Structure
Read.
Discuss.
Practice.
Reflect.
An Introduction to Design Practice is a survey into the professional history of design, and an exploration of its future. The class requires the student to continually assess their futures as designers. The world requires that we assess the purpose of design. As Buckminster Fuller stated. “You have to decide whether you want to make money or make sense, because the two are mutually exclusive.” Our purpose is not to politicize design, but we must question the work we do, as well as the resulting impacts.
Over the course of a semester, students new to design and the Institute of Design will assess the state of the profession. They will find their place in the school and identify paths forward through their professional practice. In order to accomplish this, we must develop:
A Reading Practice
Participants are required to read for a minimum of 3 hours per week in this class. A core set of readings will be provided. Students must provide new material on their own and share it with the class.
A Voice
Speaking is not easy. It requires continual practice to feel comfortable. Connecting our thoughts to our words should fit our personalities. We strive for a voice that is authentic and others seek to hear.
A Reflective Practice
Laura Forlano asked, “How do we practice at the masters level.” We begin by having the courage to do and to fail. We progress by assessing our work and the practices that either lead to success or failure.
A Desire to Learn
Mistakes can be their own successes. Failure is a harsh teacher, but success without pushing our limits is the surest path to mediocrity. We strive for greatness at the Institute of Design.
The Design Squiggle describes the messy design process.
Designers must navigate a world that does not yet exist. Embrace the struggle!
The Design Squiggle describes the world of the designer as they pass through the levels of challenges that face them. The terror of the blank page is real. But, through steady consideration and effort we arrive at our goal. The behaviors we use to assess design efforts include:
Understand the Opportunity
Everything we do presents opportunities, challenges, and new paths to the future.
Identify the Constraints
Constraints are not limits, but delineate the space where we work.
Know Your Tools
Process helps us act. Use design processes to help you in times where clarity is lacking.
Stay Motivated
Creativity requires breathing room and diversions. Stay healthy both mentally and physically.
Stay Curious
Where we look for new ideas is of immense importance. Navigating the path depends upon your interests and efforts to learn.
