CONFERENCES
E&PDE 2026 - 28th International Conference on Engineering & Product Design Education
The Conference will bring together representatives from education and industry interested in sharing new perspectives on design education.
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.
CRAFT EDUCATION AS A CATALYST FOR CULTURAL SUSTAINABILITY IN SAUDI DESIGN CURRICULA: A CASE STUDY OF DESIGN STUDENTS AT IMAM ABDULRAHMAN BIN FAISAL UNIVERISTY
Al Khuwaitem, Khadijah; Alrumaihi, Najla; Ali, Albatool; Alshaikhi, Alya; Alkhabbaz, Sakinah; Alzain, Fatimah; Alnakhlawi, Walaa
Type:
Year:
2026
Editor:
Buck, Lyndon; Brisco. Ross; Bohemia, Erik
Author:
Al Khuwaitem, Khadijah; Alrumaihi, Najla; Ali, Albatool; Alshaikhi, Alya; Alkhabbaz, Sakinah; Alzain, Fatimah; Alnakhlawi, Walaa
Series:
E&PDE
Institution:
Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University, Saudi Arabia
Page(s):
333 - 338
DOI number:
ISBN:
978-1-912254-24-8
ISSN:
3005-4753
Abstract:
Design majors in Saudi Arabia often prioritize global and technological educational methods, which can limit engagement with local cultural narratives and traditional artisan knowledge. As traditional crafts embody cultural diversity, manual skills, sensory knowledge and community identity, their absence from design curricula restricts students’ exposure to a rich source of inspiration and cultural continuity. This study investigates how integrating craft-related courses influences students’ cultural sustainability awareness, their connection with local craftspeople, and the impact on their design practice. Utilising a mixed-method approach combining a survey and semi-structured interviews, alongside a case study analysis of 23 student design projects, this research compares two student groups: those who completed craft-related courses, and those who did not. Results show both groups demonstrated high interest in crafts but only moderate practical engagement with traditional crafts, indicating that appreciation does not always translate to sustained involvement. Students who had completed craft-related courses were more likely to integrate craft elements into their designs, although often driven by course obligation. Indeed, case study analysis shows that integration tended to reflect conceptual or aesthetic intentions rather than cultural embedment. Engagement with craftspeople remained limited overall, reflecting broader constraints. Qualitative insights highlighted barriers limiting deeper engagement, including limited time, insufficient exposure, and difficulty accessing artisans. Findings highlight the importance of integrating craft-related subjects within design curricula to promote cultural sustainability and social sensitivity. It recommends more immersive and meaningful educational strategies to help students build lasting connections with local craft communities and develop culturally grounded design practices.
Keywords:
