Design 615

DSN 615: Readings in Design Thinking

Prerequisites: None

Credit hours (3)


Students in this course, in conjunction with their thesis/project advisor, select relevant readings to support and foster their research interests.


Detailed Description of Course

This self-paced elective course is to complement the existing MFA in Design Thinking curriculum by offering students additional exploration into their research topics. Students will identify 3-4 books related to their area of interest and submit an annotated bibliography outlining the rationale for selection to the instructor (who is also the student’s thesis/project chair). In coordination with the instructor, the bibliography may be revised and/or approved. Students will complete the readings throughout the semester and submit a detailed written explication of each book – annotating how the content relates to their research. A final narrative synthesizing readings across authors will demonstrate student’s knowledge and understanding of relevant contributors in their field of study.


Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

This course will be didactic, generally implemented through in-class lectures.


Goals and Objectives of the Course

Two programmatic learning outcomes are addressed with this course:

(#2) Synthesize concepts from multiple disciplines [Design thinking competency]

(#9) Incorporate research from various sources and implement appropriate methodologies to create a final paper/thesis/project. [Design research competency]

Additionally, students completing this course will:

• Identify leaders in their area of interest
• Enhance understanding and knowledge of what is published in area of interest
• Refine research topic


Assessment Measures

Assessment will be measured by written explications of selected readings. It is also expected that students will synthesize across authors.


Other Course Information

None



Review and Approval

December 11, 2016
April 8, 2014