73453 - Design Methods T (L-Z)

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students will be able to understand the key issues in product design. Through theoretical lectures introducing the logic of design, students will be able to reflect on the process-oriented nature of design and on the tools needed to manage the various stages of the process. Through practical exercises, students will be able to undertake a process of analysis and design research applied to specific design contexts.

Course contents

Modules 1 and 2 provide theoretical knowledge and practical tools for interpreting contemporary design processes and practices, developing responsible critical thinking, and supporting the selection of design approaches appropriate to specific contexts, while upholding the principles of inclusion, ethics, and sustainability.

A designer’s training requires the ability to understand contexts, relationships, artifacts, and socio-technical dynamics, while recognizing the gaps and potential of local ecosystems.

Knowledge of design cultures, in their various forms, fosters the development of critical design awareness and the ability to identify the most suitable approaches for each context by selecting from the wide range of methods and tools that characterize the discipline of design.

Through observation, literature review, and experimentation with tools in real and/or simulated contexts, the course promotes an interdisciplinary approach to design, with a focus on responsible design.

The course introduces the “research through design” paradigm, offering design-driven tools to facilitate cross-disciplinary research.

In this regard, the first part of the course delves into qualitative and quantitative research- both primary and secondary- from a design perspective; it examines ethnography applied to design and how to initiate case-study research, illustrating tools for collecting and organizing both projects and bibliographic sources.

The second part explores key approaches to driving design-led innovation processes, such as Human-Centered Design, Circular Design, and Participatory Design.

Teaching methods

The course includes lectures and seminars with in-class research activities, supplemented by ongoing discussions with the instructor as well as among peers. This approach promotes active and collaborative learning.

Assessment methods

Learning is assessed through interim presentations. The work completed in the two modules serves as a foundation for the activities in the integrated Industrial Design course and contributes to the final grade.

For Module 1, a research portfolio is required, containing the activities carried out (desk research, case studies, interviews, up to the definition of concepts). The portfolio provides direct evidence of theoretical and methodological accuracy and the consistent application of tools and approaches, and it highlights the evolution of students’ design thinking by showcasing the choices of research paths selected for the subsequent concept-definition phase.

For Module 2, the following are required: presentation of case studies through graphic materials and submission of a sketchbook containing sketches and drawings developed during the research phase. These materials demonstrate the clarity and communication skills of individual students, as well as the design iteration process and the learning capacity that each team member is able to engage in independently.

The evaluation considers:
- conceptual accuracy and methodological rigor;
- independent judgment and justification of choices;
- effectiveness of written, visual, and oral communication;
- process management and learning

USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

AI can support independent study by providing in-depth analysis, summaries, and self-assessment exercises. During exams, limited, declared, and non-substantial use of AI is permitted for support activities (summaries, rephrasing). Substantial use of AI to complete parts of the exam is not permitted. The use of AI (tools and prompts) must be documented within the exam papers.

Teaching tools

Slides, tools provided by the instructor, or open-access resources for research activities.

Office hours

See the website of Laura Succini

See the website of Giorgio Dall'Osso