B4922 - DESIGN CULTURES.

Learning outcomes

At the end of the Course the student will have acquired methodological tools useful for understanding design cultures, i.e. the history, theory and criticism of this discipline. The student will also understand the symbolic role played by everyday objects in the contemporary social, economic and political landscape, with particular reference to fashion and the most recent projects in the field.

Course contents

The course aims to develop a design-oriented reflection on fashion with an experimental and speculative approach. Starting from a critical analysis of creative research methodologies and possible approaches to fashion design, students will be guided in the development of a fashion meta-project, taking into account cultural, social, and symbolic aspects.

The course provides methodological and conceptual tools to address the different phases of the fashion meta-project: from research to concept development, from the definition of design guidelines to the analysis of context, needs, and feasibility, up to the structuring of the subsequent design process. Particular attention will be given to critical reflection on the topics addressed and to the coherence of design choices.

Students with specific learning disorders (SLD) or temporary or permanent disabilities are encouraged to contact the relevant University office (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/it ) and the instructor as soon as possible, in order to jointly identify the most effective strategies for attending classes and/or preparing for the exam.

Readings/Bibliography

FOR ATTENDING STUDENTS:

At the end of each lecture, the instructor will upload to the Virtuale platform the slides used and the reference bibliography related to the topics covered during the lecture.


FOR NON-ATTENDING STUDENTS:

In addition to the materials provided for attending students, an additional bibliography will be uploaded to the Virtuale platform, to be studied independently in preparation for the exam.

Teaching methods

The course includes:

• lectures with a theoretical and critical focus;

• analysis of relevant case studies in the field of fashion design and design cultures;

• exercises on design methodologies;

• development of a group project (for attending students);

• moments of presentation and review of project progress.

The teaching approach is aimed at encouraging active participation, critical discussion, and the ability to work collaboratively.

Assessment methods

The exam consists of an oral interview, aimed at assessing the critical and methodological skills developed by the student, as well as their ability to articulate and argue the theoretical and design-related contents of the course in a clear and informed manner.


FOR ATTENDING STUDENTS:

The oral exam will begin with the presentation of the fashion meta-project developed during the course. Starting from the project, the exam will further explore the topics covered in class through questions designed to verify the quality and coherence of the research path, methodological awareness, critical engagement with contemporary issues, and the ability to connect theory, history, and design. The assessment will also take into account active participation in lectures, exercises, and review sessions.


FOR NON-ATTENDING STUDENTS:

Learning assessment will take place through an individual oral exam, based on the study of the materials uploaded to the Virtuale platform, the additional bibliography indicated for non-attending students, and the ability to critically discuss the theoretical and methodological themes of the course. Evaluation criteria include clarity of presentation, critical thinking, mastery of theoretical concepts, and appropriate use of disciplinary language.

Teaching tools

The course makes use of various tools to support teaching activities. In particular, slides and audiovisual materials (videos, images, case studies) will be used to complement the lectures.

All teaching materials provided by the instructor will be uploaded and available for consultation on the Virtuale platform.

Office hours

See the website of Paolo Franzo