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CS92PROD
Introduction to Design Thinking: Liberal Arts to Epic Challenges
CSPL 202
Spring 2020 not offered
This course may be repeated for credit.

Human-centered design or design thinking taps the creativity and diversity of a team to develop solutions to complex problems, following careful observation to gain the human perspective of a problem. Increasingly, this methodology is at the center of innovative practices in business, nonprofits, and governments. It can be particularly effective in addressing the human needs that are the focus of social enterprise and policy. Many of the disciplines that comprise the liberal arts education are valued sources of perspective and ideas contributing to solutions.

The most progressive and effective solutions to many problems are those that emerge from closely observing human patterns and then encouraging diverse imaginations to create rapid prototypes of solutions that can be tested and refined. The result is human-centered, rather than high-level policy influences for social change. Although the methodology is called "design thinking," the approach is used in designing experiences, services, and organizations, as well as objects. No design background is required.

The class sessions will consist of (1) the presentation of methods and theories, (2) case studies to be worked on in teams either in the session or between sessions, and (3) discussions with faculty members from other disciplines and designers who have worked on significant engagements for social change. Design thinking can be a purposeful link to the application of other disciplines to real-world problems, including anthropology, and behavioral economics.

An optional field trip is planned to work through a problem in the IBM Design Studio in New York City.
Credit: 1 Gen Ed Area Dept: SBS CSPL
Course Format: LectureGrading Mode: Student Option
Level: UGRD Prerequisites: None
Fulfills a Requirement for: None

Last Updated on OCT-08-2024
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