Design Research: From Insights to Innovation

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

In the twentieth century, the design profession took shape in such fields as graphic design, information design, product design, industrial design, and design management. Today, design has grown from a focus on products and services to a robust and diverse set of methods and methodologies that are applicable to a wide range of cultural and societal challenges. With a focus on understanding natural environments, behaviors, and relationships, in all their inherent complexities, design research is uniquely qualified to understand and help address today’s complex challenges. The objective of this class is to introduce students to the principles and practices of qualitative design research, and the practical application of these ideas to understanding cultural needs and challenges. This course is offered every semester and is open to Collaborative Innovation Minors and Design Majors.