This course will focus on experimentation and discovery through the exploration of creative problem solving techniques. Students will explore the dynamics between objects and the user’s senses, emotions, and expressed needs. Using drawing, sketch-modeling and basic shop skills, students will discover the wide choice of materials industrial designers use to further develop their projects. Concepts of recycling and reuse are introduced along with philosophical design approaches, and historical examples. Emphasis will be placed on the improvement of craft in the development of projects and on clarity and professionalism in practice.

This course will emphasize the cognitive and technical skills necessary to manipulate material for the accurate three-dimensional communication of design intent. Projects focus on understanding the relationship of materials, manufacturing processes, products and the user. Special emphasis is placed on using non-toxic materials.

Students will develop the skills needed to effectively develop and communicate design concepts graphically, digitally and three-dimensionally, consistent with professional industrial design practice standards. Emphasis will be placed on the development, integration and application of computer aided design skills throughout the assignments, utilizing the relationship of analog and digital mediums as a means of enriching the design process.

This is the second course in a two-course sequence in which the industrial design capstone project is completed. Students will finalize their design solution, publicly disseminate their work, and create a written document that addresses how the theories and methods used in the project have an impact on the current and future state of design in society.

Industrial Design Independent Study provides students the means to study in a specialized area with an individual faculty member. With the assistance of their faculty advisers, students will propose a course of study. Students must obtain permission of an instructor and complete the Independent Study Permission Form to enroll. A 3.0 or higher GPA required.

This course is the second of a two-course studio sequence that provides a forum for discourse and experimentation in design. Course continues the methodology established in Design Laboratory I, and extends the scope to human-centered concepts, artifacts and systems at both local and global levels. Assignments will include topics such as: responsible design practices, universal design, environmental sensibility, project management and fabrication.