Course Description

Des Inv 22 provides an introduction to the design process and digital fabrication processes through hands on projects. The design prompts are kept very simple, As an example the midterm is to create a mechanism that leaves a mark on a surface. It is up to each student to determine what is the mechanism and the media. It can be simple like a spinning top that leaves a visible trail or more complex, a microcontroller sensing light and controlling a custom plotter. Creativity is emphasized, the grading rubric includes "causes wonderment" as one of the top points award. The students are free to explore and develop any concepts they come up with and to take chances, something the might not have the freedom to do in other courses. These projects require three levels of prototyping: Low fidelity, which consists of lightweight and easily manipulated materials to explore and communicate the design concept. Medium Fidelity, in which the prototype evolves with the addition of digital prototyping tools along side hand production. High Fidelity, the final prototype stage where digital production processes are used along with hand finishing to reach a high level of fit and finish.

Creative Discovery Course Grant Experience

The Creative Discovery Grant has allowed me to expand the materials, tools and course materials to students who are attending remote classes. Learning in a remote class is challenging, especially a hands on class where physical artifacts are created. I am constantly amazed with the designs the students create with simple materials and the passion they show for it. Engagement is key, given the right tools and ways to acquire the skills, students create challenging work. This creative work and confidence in abilities are carried forward to their future coursework.