Programme outline
This course introduces students to design science using the Double Diamond methodology framework where many design principles and methods will be reviewed, applied and analysed.
Students will learn to make connections between design science and other fields, such as engineering, and how principles in design science can be used to advance these fields. The class will cover a broad set of design methods such as customer needs analysis, methods in creativity, functional modelling, design for X and design for testing and verification.
Learning objectives
- Understand and apply design methods
- Deconstruct a design generalised design activity into a scientific description
- Formulate a strategy to approach a design activity based on scientifically-grounded evidence
- Construct a generalised method that can be used to solve a design task
Topics
- Introduction to Design Science
- Overview of Design Research Methods
- Discover Methods
- Interviewing and Contextual Needs Analysis
- Empathyand Extreme Users
- Videography and Multi-Sensory Analysis
- Articulated Use and Shadowing/ Journey Mapping
- Benchmarking and Site Analysis
- Define Methods
- Activity Diagram and Functional Models
- Influence Diagram/Ishikawa
- 5-Whys and Reframing
- Develop Methods
- Mindmapping and C-sketch
- Parallel Cells and Co-creation
- Structured Methods: Triz, Scamper, Design by analogy
- Filtering methods: Real Win Worth, Prioritisation Matrix
- Deliver Methods
- Wireframe and Storyboarding
- Paper Prototyping, Wizard of Oz, Roleplay, Bodystorming, Usability Testing
- Scaling, Isolation, Relaxation
- FEM, CFD Similitude
- Generative design, AR, VR, AR
Assessment
Participants will be assessed through a combination of class participation, individual quizzes, and presentations to encourage active engagement and demonstrate individual understanding. A midterm assessment will involve an ethnographic design task to evaluate research and observational skills. The course will conclude with a final critical redesign project, allowing participants to apply insights and propose thoughtful, innovative solutions.
Note: SUTD Academy reserves the right to cancel the class due to unforeseen circumstances.