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DSN 100

DSN 100: Design Fundamentals

Credit Hours: (3) Six hours studio

A hands-on, experiential studio that introduces the elements and principles of design in two-and three-dimensional formats. The iterative design process, problem solving through creative expression, and conceptual thinking is emphasized.

Note(s): Students cannot receive credit for both DSN 100 and DSN 111.


Detailed Description of Content of Course

Official Course Description: A hands-on, experiential studio that introduces the elements and principles of design in two-and three-dimensional formats. The iterative design process, problem solving through creative expression, and conceptual thinking is emphasized. 2-D compositions and 3-D design projects focus on applying the elements and principles of design. Final projects also show process work, inspiration, information gathering, and concept statements. 

MAJOR TOPICS: 

  1. DESIGN THEORY & APPLICATION 
    1. Elements of Design: Identification, Terminology, Application, Color: terminology, principles, theory, and systems  
    2. Principles of Design: Identification, Terminology, Theory, Interactions of E&P within compositions 
  2. ITERATIVE DESIGN PROCESS: Inspiration/ Challenge /Problem, Ideation, Concept Development (i.e., context, research, information gathering, prototyping, thumbnails), Creation/ Implementation, Evaluation 
  3. CREATIVITY: Inspiration, Productive failure, Originality (novel, unique, imaginative), Abstract thought (moving away from literal thought, and pathway to creativity) 
  4. DESIGN COMMUNICATION  
    1. Project Execution: Multimedia Project format/ materials, Skill building, craftsmanship 
    2. Project Presentation: Verbal (articulation, written concept statement, captions), Oral (articulation), Visual  
    3. Multimedia Documentation 
    4. Project package showing: Process work, inspiration, iteration, completed projects 
    5. Project package: digital, printed, or other formats (video, etc.) 
  5. EVALUATION: Critical thinking, Critiquing, Peer-evaluation, Self-evaluations based on a design project matrix 

 

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

Instructional strategies to include:

  • lecture instruction 
  • maker experiences
  • active learning and high impact practices
  • cooperative/group learning
  • self-reflective activities
  • student presentations, oral and written communication activities
  • use of audio-visual materials


Goals and Objectives of the Course

Having successfully completed this course, the student will be able to:  

  1. understand the design theory of the elements and principles of design* 
  2. apply the elements and principles of design in two- and three-dimensional design projects*  
  3. demonstrate an understanding of color terminology, principles, theories, and systems* 
  4. demonstrate the iterative design process to include: inspiration/ challenge, ideation, concept development, creation, and evaluation* 
  5. demonstrate original idea generation through expressive, imaginative, and/ or abstract thought 
  6. demonstrate design communication through multi-media, verbal, and oral articulations*
  7. demonstrate an understanding of composition  
  8. demonstrate an understanding of craftsmanship  
  9. evaluate and critique creative works, based on the elements and principles of design, using critical thinking methods
    * Learning outcomes are specific to CIDA accreditation standards 

 

Assessment Measures

Grading procedures will be determined by the individual faculty member teaching the course but include the following:

  • minimum of one two-dimensional project, using the iterative design process, showing process work 
  • minimum of one three-dimensional project, using the iterative design process, showing process work  
  • minimum of one cooperative activity
  • minimum of one quiz to demonstrate an understanding of design terminologies, theories, and concepts 
  • minimum of one presentation demonstrating design communication through multi-media, verbal, and oral articulations
  • evaluation of creative works through critical thinking using oral critique, written self-evaluation, and written peer-evaluation 


Other Course Information

Facilities, Equipment and Supplies:

  • On-campus computers/ technology/ software/ printing.
  • A flexible arrangement classroom with table surfaces or studio space with tables surfaces
  • Student independent access to on-campus computer lab and makerspaces 
  • Course supply fee, determined necessary for classroom shared products
  • Project supplies will vary by student project, thus procured by the student.
  • Copy/ printing resources as typical with course instruction


Review and Approval

05/2011

March 27, 2025

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