DEA 2020

Introduction to Sustainable Design

3.0 credits · Undergraduate

This course introduces the histories, concepts, and frameworks that underlie our understanding of sustainability and how they are shaping environmentally conscious design practices - explored through an investigation of materials, processes, products, practices, and material culture. We utilizes exploratory, participatory, and open-ended learning methods to facilitate design inquiry and propose a more environmentally and socially just future.

Topics

To understand the historical contexts in which the post-industrial concept of sustainability emerged, and its contemporary use as a cross-disciplinary term.
To understand the underlying physical and social science components that define sustainability on a global scale.
To explore both the practical and theoretical discourses and actions that shape sustainable design practices.
To investigate systems of contemporary material culture production using design research and analysis methods.
To explore, develop, and deploy graphic techniques of information visualization and narrative communication to generate accessible and informative presentations.
To work effectively with others across multiple disciplines and contribute to critical class discourse and collaborative research.

Official roster learning outcomes

Sources

Course catalogue ↗2026-2027