After successful completion of the course, students are able to...

…understand the concept of exploration as a method, as well as it's value when applied in design and research
…execute exploratory design strategies in different contexts
…reflect critically on design and explain different aspects of design

explorative design is a course built upon henrik gedenryd’s model of design. he describes design as emerging not only from thinking, but from doing, building upon the theory of interactive cognition. these ideas in turn go back to donald schön reflection-in-action and reflection-on-action, ultimately refering to john dewey and his »theory of inquiry«. following the resulting construct of ideas, this course tries to create an environment where design can be understood and learned by exploring ideas, materials and concepts by exploratory design, based on the aforementioned modes of reflection. 

in »explorative design 1«, we delve into the basics of design such as typography and color, and make our way to semantics, semiotics and interaction. in »explorative design 2«, students follow a project of their own choosing, mostly trying out various design methods, strategies and approaches to experience their potential for insight and knowledge building. 

shared workshops in class; projects in small working groups; discussion and reflection of the work from the groups; reception and discussion of design research literature

35 hours – workshops & lectures

100 hours – project work
15 hours – research and reading

after kickoff, dates are subject to planning according to the the-current corona regulations. the plan might change during the semester. current plan is to meet every other tuesday afternoon. if a switch to remote learning is necessary, we will meet every tuesday, but for a shorter time. 

content focus will be design approaches to mental health at the university.  

students are evaluated based on participation in class and the quality of their project work