Knowledge Base Repository
In addition to research papers, the Design Society is developing several valuable resources for those interested in the study of design. These include a repository of PhD theses, a library of case studies and transcripts of design activities, and an archive of our newsletters. Please note that these resources are accessible exclusively to Design Society members.
Asking why as well and how: strengthening the technical proficiency of new designers
Marsh, Phillipa; Arthur, Leslie
Type:
Year:
2013
Editor:
John Lawlor, Ger Reilly, Robert Simpson, Michael Ring, Ahmed Kovacevic, Mark McGrath, William Ion, David Tormey, Erik Bohemia, Chris McMahon, Brian Parkinson
Author:
Series:
E&PDE
Institution:
NTU, United Kingdom
Section:
Technology in Design Education
Page(s):
492-497
ISBN:
978-1-904670-42-1
Abstract:
Significant challenges can be encountered when introducing technology to design students, especially those with limited science and technology backgrounds. Often students display a fear or unwillingness to participate in technology-based applications, without realising the synergetic potentials. These challenges also exist for design engineering researchers, educationalists and technologists. This paper presents a different view to educating new designers in relation to technology-based disciplines, specifically in Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Manufacture (CAM). The work focuses on moving beyond polarised âhow it worksâ attitudes to technology and considers wider implications of using technology and the impact for design practice. This view of teaching can develop studentâs awareness of the impacts of technologies as well as enhancing their knowledge of technological practices. This position has been taken from work which aimed to establish more engaging ways of educating designers on technological applications within design and problems solving. A framework for teaching engineering alongside key design knowledge is proposed, using a debates project to exemplify this. This project requires designers to examine good design principles with a variety of technologies, and develop a detailed knowledge and awareness of emerging technologies throughout debating and discursive sessions. The teaching methodology and practical assessment is particularly relevant to the expanding technological emphasis for designers and the need for students to have a wider perspective beyond a pragmatic technical view. This paper also highlights the knowledge and associated methodology for design pedagogy whilst building on current practices, to enhance the learning experience alongside the knowledge of technological issues.
Keywords:
