Methods

• There are many ways of making in the world. From the tactile and tangible to the technical and complex, design work spans many types of tools and materials that require different approaches and skill sets. Selecting a method depth allows students to hone their abilities.

Jump To:

A Methods Depth allows students to take classes across the university to sharpen their making skills and abilities—and gain professional fluency.  

Students choose one of three Method Depths tracks listed below. Within each method you will take three classes with a focus on foundational understanding and application.

about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods about methods

Physical Design + Manufacturing

Making in the Physical World

This method ranges from classes on materials and mechanisms, to understanding what is possible with physical design, to manufacturing processes and supply chain logistics, to understanding how physical design is implemented. Students will work with faculty who have a close partnership with the Product Realization Lab (PRL). Classes in this method will help students understand what they are excited about making. Students will draw from physics and mathematical modeling to build and understand material properties. You will engage with analyzing and calculating to help determine what you will build, and choosing the right materials for what you want your product to do.

↑

Artificial Intelligence + Digital User Experience

Digital Design

This method ranges from foundational classes on programming methodologies and human computer interaction to applied courses on digital prototyping, user experience design, and incorporating AI and data science.  In this day and age, we are constantly interacting within a digital space. The digital world is increasingly controlling the physical products we interact with. This method aims to understand digital design and its importance for the development of our world. Class offerings include several courses on Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science focused on different techniques of AI from vision to language. Students will get to focus on the technology of AI paired with understanding the design process which influences the user interface and user interaction.

↑

Human Behavior + Multi-Stakeholder Research

Building with Data

This method is an opportunity for students to develop an understanding on how to use research to modify and evolve design directions as they manifest in the world. This method uses qualitative and quantitative methods to better understand people—who we are, what we do, and why we do it. A better understanding of people will help better design products, inventions, and policies for our world. Classes focus on communication, data science, and psychology to help understand how to design for the human experience.

↑