Entry requirements

60 credits.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the course, the student should be able to:

• account for and compare different theoretical design principles and models for sustainable design;
• discuss sustainable design from ethical, cultural and historical perspectives;
• critically review different design solutions ecological, social and economical consequences;
• account for and critically discuss design thinking and its potential for creative problem solving;
• apply principles of design thinking to lead delimited creative problem-solving processes, including basic forms of prototyping;
• independently apply a specific design theory on a specific challenge within the sustainability field.

Content

This course offers an interdisciplinary introduction to sustainable design, design thinking, and creativity as tools for sustainable development. The course covers theories and practical applications of design principles and models for sustainable design, such as biomimetic design and design based on ecological systems and conditions. Furthermore, design thinking is highlighted and discussed as a practical framework for identifying, analyzing, and solving complex sustainability challenges. Process tools for creative problem-solving are introduced and practiced. Critical perspectives on sustainable design are explored, including issues of ethics, power, aesthetics, and cultural values and worldviews. These themes are discussed in relation to design's impact on ecological, social, and economic systems, with a particular focus on risks, opportunities, and equity aspects. The course includes practical elements and a project where students apply acquired knowledge in relation to specific sustainability challenges. The course strives for an interdisciplinary work process where design involves technically, socially, economically, ecologically integrated and sustainable systems.

Instruction

The teaching consists of lectures, seminars and workshops. The lectures are given by guest lecturers from various academic disciplines and relevant areas of society. Ample opportunities are provided for active student participation and critical reflection. Non-compulsory study visits or equivalent may occur.

Assessment

The student is examined through written preparation for (4 credits) and active participation in seminars and workshops (3 credits), and through written documentation (7 credits) and oral presentation (1 credit) of a project.

If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the University's disability coordinator.

Other regulations

Active participation is reassessed throuh a re-seminar. If a student after having been offered a re-seminar still does not meet the requirements to pass the active participation elements the examiner can chose reassessment by another method.

The course cannot be included in a degree together with 1MV076 Sustainable Design - Ecology, Culture and Human Built Worlds.