Programme outline
When designers create something – whether an algorithm, a user interface, a technological device, a building, or a new urban plan – they actively intervene in the lived world of its users. This course provides students with the conceptual tools and analytical skills to engage with design, design thinking, and design processes as social and cultural phenomena. It introduces current and emerging ideas in design anthropological theory and practice and explores how sensitive, ethical, and innovative design relies on social, historical and cultural knowledge.
Learning objectives
- Identify and define theories of culture, semiotics and meaning
- Discuss and report on how culture shapes user experience
- Apply ethnographic research methods to the study of culture for design objectives
- Synthesise ethnographic research data with design objectives
- Appraise and critique the social and cultural impact of design and technology
- Integrate human-centered concepts and methods with design practice
Topics
- What is Human-Centred Design?
- Cultural Research in Design and Industry
- Ethnographic Chairs
- Signs and Semiotics
- Brands and Semiotics
- Social Impact of Design
- Emergent Futures
- Speculative Design
- Critical and Speculative Redesign
- Final Presentation
Assessment
Participants will be assessed through class participation, individual quizzes, and presentations to gauge engagement and individual comprehension. A midterm ethnographic design task will evaluate participants’ ability to conduct user-centered research. The course will culminate in a final critical redesign project, where participants apply insights to propose thoughtful and innovative solutions.
Note: SUTD Academy reserves the right to cancel the class due to unforeseen circumstances.