Syllabus

Problem Definition and Ideation – Synthesizing research insights, creating point-of-view statements, brainstorming, mind mapping, and four quadrant ideation framework.

Concept Selection and Prototyping – Evaluation methods, low-fidelity and high-fidelity prototyping techniques, and user testing.

Testing, Iteration, and Presentation – Testing methodologies, feedback collection, design iteration, and final presentation of design solutions.

Physical Product Prototyping Workshop – Hands-on sessions on building physical prototypes using materials like foam, wood, and 3D printing, focusing on rapid prototyping techniques for tangible product development.

Form and Aesthetics in Product Design – Workshops exploring product form generation, aesthetic principles, material selection for visual appeal, and integration of ergonomics with aesthetics in physical models.

To develop practical skills in user research, ideation, prototyping, and testing.

To foster creative thinking and innovation in product design, including physical prototyping and aesthetic considerations.

To enhance communication and presentation skills in design contexts, with emphasis on form and aesthetics.

To prepare students for collaborative design practices and interdisciplinary problem-solving approaches, incorporating hands-on workshops.

Students will conduct effective user research, create empathy maps, user journeys, and personas to understand stakeholder needs.

Students will generate and evaluate innovative ideas using ideation techniques and concept selection methods.

Students will develop low- and high-fidelity prototypes, including physical models, and conduct user testing to gather feedback.

Students will iterate designs based on feedback, present solutions professionally, and evaluate the form, aesthetics, and functionality of products.

Tom Kelley, David Kelley, Creative Confidence: Unleashing the Creative Potential Within Us All, Crown Business , 2013; Focuses on building creative skills through design thinking, with practical examples for ideation, prototyping, and iteration in product design.

Tim Brown, Change by Design: How Design Thinking Transforms Organizations and Inspires Innovation, Harper Business , 2009; A foundational book on design thinking principles and their application in innovation and problem-solving, essential for understanding the methodology covered in the workshop.

Design Studies – Elsevier; A leading journal on design processes, including design thinking, prototyping, and aesthetics in product design.

International Journal of Design – National Taiwan University of Science and Technology; Focuses on design research, user-centered design, and form studies.

International Conference on Design Thinking and Innovation – An annual conference discussing methodologies, case studies, and advancements in design workshops.