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Karl T. Ulrich
This is a course aimed at making you a better designer. The course marries theory and practice, as both are valuable in improving design performance. Lectures and readings will lay out the fundamental concepts that underpin design as a human activity. Weekly design challenges test your ability to apply those ideas to solve real problems. The course is deliberately broad - spanning all domains of design, including architecture, graphics, services, apparel, engineered goods, and products. The emphasis of the course is the basic design process: define, explore, select, and refine. You, the student, bring to the course your particular interests and expertise related to, for instance, engineering, furniture, fashion, architecture, or products. In prior sessions of the course about half of the participants were novices and about half had prior professional design expertise. Both groups seem to benefit substantially from the course. All project work is evaluated by your peers -- and indeed, you will also be a peer reviewer. This format allows you to see an interesting collection of projects while getting useful feedback on your own project.
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What's inside
Syllabus
Week #1: Introduction to Design
This module was designed to introduce you to the design process and to reinforce the critical role that user needs play in good design. You'll learn that design is conceiving and giving form to artifacts that solve problems, and also how to recognize and identify a gap in a problem. You'll explore what defines what users need, as well as ways to use those needs toward product design. By the end of this module, you will have begun your own design process by identifying 10 problem gaps and submitting them for feedback from your peers. You will also do a "5 Whys" exercise to help you determine the best design problem for you to solve in your final design project.
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Syllabus
Week #1: Introduction to Design
This module was designed to introduce you to the design process and to reinforce the critical role that user needs play in good design. You'll learn that design is conceiving and giving form to artifacts that solve problems, and also how to recognize and identify a gap in a problem. You'll explore what defines what users need, as well as ways to use those needs toward product design. By the end of this module, you will have begun your own design process by identifying 10 problem gaps and submitting them for feedback from your peers. You will also do a "5 Whys" exercise to help you determine the best design problem for you to solve in your final design project.
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Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Helps you become a better designer through theory and practice, providing a strong foundation
Taught by Karl T. Ulrich, who's highly respected in the design industry
Takes a practical approach by offering real-world design challenges
Spans all design domains, ensuring its relevance to most designers
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Reviews summary
Broad introduction to design process
Based on the course description, this course offers a neutral introduction to the design process, covering fundamental concepts and practical application through weekly challenges. It aims to marry neutral theory and practice across various design domains. Learners can expect to engage in a neutral structured process: define, explore, select, and refine. A notable feature is the reliance on neutral peer review for project evaluation, providing exposure to diverse projects and feedback. The course is described as suitable for a positive mix of both novices and those with prior design experience, suggesting positive broad applicability.
Includes basic drawing principles for design.
"Learning basic drawing principles is included in the course structure."
"Week 2 specifically focuses on drawing solutions for product design."
"There's a component covering how to present designs using drawing."
Spans various design fields, from products to services.
"It was interesting to see how the design process applies to architecture, apparel, and services, not just products."
"The course covers a really wide range of design types, which is good for a general overview."
"They said the course spans all domains of design, which is useful context."
Project feedback and evaluation comes from peers.
"Evaluating other projects gives you a great perspective on different approaches."
"Getting feedback from peers is a core part of the course structure."
"My project work was evaluated by others taking the course."
Designed for both beginners and experienced learners.
"The course description mentions it's for novices and those with prior experience."
"It seems like the course can benefit people just starting or those wanting to refresh fundamentals."
"They stated that both beginners and professionals benefit substantially."
Guides through the design process step-by-step.
"I appreciated the clear progression through the design process from problem definition to refinement."
"The course follows a logical structure: define, explore, select, refine."
"The weekly modules build upon each other nicely, following the core design process."
Combines lectures with hands-on design challenges.
"The lectures explain the 'why' behind design, and the challenges let you immediately apply it."
"I like that it includes both fundamental concepts and practical projects."
"Getting to apply the ideas from the readings to solve real problems in the challenges was helpful."
Breadth across domains may limit depth in areas.
"Because it covers so many areas, it might not go super deep into any one specific design type."
"Being 'deliberately broad' might mean it stays at a high level overview."
"I wonder if the course provides enough detail for specialized interests."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Design: Creation of Artifacts in Society with these
activities:
Read 'The Design of Everyday Things'
Show steps
This book provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of design and how they apply to everyday objects. Reading it will give you a strong foundation for the course and help you understand the concepts of design.
View
Things That Make Us Smart: Defending Human...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read one chapter per week
-
Take notes on the key concepts
-
Apply the concepts to your own design projects
Practice sketching to improve drawing
Show steps
Sketching is an essential skill for product designers. Doing this before starting the course will help improve your hand-eye coordination and give you a strong basis for the drawing modules.
Browse courses on
Drawing
Show steps
-
Find a still life or object to draw from
-
Set a timer for 5 minutes
-
Sketch the object, focusing on capturing the basic shapes and proportions
-
Compare your sketch to the object and identify areas for improvement
-
Repeat steps 1-4 for at least 10 different objects
Watch tutorials on design software
Show steps
Watching tutorials on design software will help you learn how to use the tools you need to create your designs.
Browse courses on
Design Software
Show steps
-
Find tutorials on YouTube or other online platforms
-
Watch the tutorials and follow along
-
Practice using the software on your own
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Practice design thinking exercises
Show steps
Practicing design thinking exercises will help you develop your creative problem-solving skills.
Browse courses on
Design
Show steps
-
Find design thinking exercises online or in books
-
Complete the exercises on your own or with a group
-
Reflect on your experience and identify areas for improvement
Attend a design workshop
Show steps
Attending a design workshop will give you an opportunity to learn from experienced designers and get hands-on experience with different design techniques.
Browse courses on
Design
Show steps
-
Find a design workshop that interests you
-
Register for the workshop
-
Attend the workshop and participate in the activities
-
Follow up with the workshop organizers or attendees
Participate in weekly peer review sessions
Show steps
Peer review is an essential part of the design process. Participating in weekly peer review sessions will give you feedback on your work and help you improve your design skills.
Show steps
-
Attend the weekly peer review sessions
-
Bring your work in progress to the sessions
-
Give feedback to other students
-
Incorporate feedback into your own work
Volunteer at a design organization
Show steps
Volunteering at a design organization will give you hands-on experience and help you network with other designers.
Browse courses on
Design
Show steps
-
Find a design organization that you are interested in
-
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities
-
Attend volunteer orientation
-
Participate in volunteer activities
Create a design portfolio
Show steps
A design portfolio is a great way to showcase your skills and get feedback from potential employers. Creating a portfolio will help you organize your work and prepare for job interviews.
Browse courses on
Design
Show steps
-
Gather your best work
-
Create a website or digital portfolio to showcase your work
-
Get feedback from friends, family, or mentors
-
Update your portfolio regularly
Read 'The Design of Everyday Things'
Show steps
This book provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of design and how they apply to everyday objects. Reading it will give you a strong foundation for the course and help you understand the concepts of design.
View
Things That Make Us Smart: Defending Human...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read one chapter per week
- Take notes on the key concepts
- Apply the concepts to your own design projects
Practice sketching to improve drawing
Show steps
Sketching is an essential skill for product designers. Doing this before starting the course will help improve your hand-eye coordination and give you a strong basis for the drawing modules.
Browse courses on
Drawing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a still life or object to draw from
- Set a timer for 5 minutes
- Sketch the object, focusing on capturing the basic shapes and proportions
- Compare your sketch to the object and identify areas for improvement
- Repeat steps 1-4 for at least 10 different objects
Watch tutorials on design software
Show steps
Watching tutorials on design software will help you learn how to use the tools you need to create your designs.
Browse courses on
Design Software
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find tutorials on YouTube or other online platforms
- Watch the tutorials and follow along
- Practice using the software on your own
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Practice design thinking exercises
Show steps
Practicing design thinking exercises will help you develop your creative problem-solving skills.
Browse courses on
Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find design thinking exercises online or in books
- Complete the exercises on your own or with a group
- Reflect on your experience and identify areas for improvement
Attend a design workshop
Show steps
Attending a design workshop will give you an opportunity to learn from experienced designers and get hands-on experience with different design techniques.
Browse courses on
Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a design workshop that interests you
- Register for the workshop
- Attend the workshop and participate in the activities
- Follow up with the workshop organizers or attendees
Participate in weekly peer review sessions
Show steps
Peer review is an essential part of the design process. Participating in weekly peer review sessions will give you feedback on your work and help you improve your design skills.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Attend the weekly peer review sessions
- Bring your work in progress to the sessions
- Give feedback to other students
- Incorporate feedback into your own work
Volunteer at a design organization
Show steps
Volunteering at a design organization will give you hands-on experience and help you network with other designers.
Browse courses on
Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a design organization that you are interested in
- Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities
- Attend volunteer orientation
- Participate in volunteer activities
Create a design portfolio
Show steps
A design portfolio is a great way to showcase your skills and get feedback from potential employers. Creating a portfolio will help you organize your work and prepare for job interviews.
Browse courses on
Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather your best work
- Create a website or digital portfolio to showcase your work
- Get feedback from friends, family, or mentors
- Update your portfolio regularly
Career center
Learners who complete Design: Creation of Artifacts in Society will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Web Designer
Web Designer
A Web Designer creates the design and layout of websites. They work with engineers and other stakeholders to ensure that the website is user-friendly and meets the needs of users. Web Designers typically have a strong understanding of design principles and the latest trends in web design. This course may be useful for those seeking to become web designers as it teaches the fundamentals of design and how to apply them to real-world problems. The course also covers the importance of user research and how to use it to inform design decisions.
Graphic Designer
Graphic Designer
A Graphic Designer creates visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They develop the overall layout and production design for advertisements, brochures, magazines, and other publications. They may also create logos, letterheads, websites, and other visual materials. This course may be useful for those seeking to become graphic designers as it teaches the fundamentals of design and how to use design software. The course also covers the design process from start to finish, which is essential for creating successful graphic design projects.
Industrial Designer
Industrial Designer
An Industrial Designer combines art, science, and engineering to develop the concepts and designs for manufactured products. They work to create products that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This course may be useful for those seeking to become industrial designers as it teaches the fundamentals of design and how to apply them to real-world problems. The course also covers the importance of user research and how to use it to inform design decisions, which is essential for designing successful products.
Product Designer
Product Designer
A Product Designer creates products that are both useful and aesthetically pleasing. They work with engineers and other stakeholders to develop products that meet the needs of users. Product Designers typically have a strong understanding of design principles and the latest trends in product design. This course may be useful for those seeking to become product designers as it teaches the fundamentals of design and how to apply them to real-world problems. The course also covers the importance of user research and how to use it to inform design decisions.
UI/UX Designer
UI/UX Designer
A UI/UX Designer creates the user interface and user experience for websites and apps. They work with engineers and other stakeholders to ensure that the user interface is easy to use and the user experience is enjoyable. UI/UX Designers typically have a strong understanding of design principles and the latest trends in UI/UX design. This course may be useful for those seeking to become UI/UX designers as it teaches the fundamentals of design and how to apply them to real-world problems. The course also covers the importance of user research and how to use it to inform design decisions.
Interior designer
Interior designer
An Interior Designer plans, researches, coordinates, and manages projects to determine space requirements and select decorative items, furnishings, and architectural features. They may also provide advice on the selection of materials, colors, lighting, and space planning. Interior Designers typically have a strong understanding of design principles and the latest trends in interior design. This course may be useful for those seeking to become interior designers as it teaches the fundamentals of design and how to apply them to interior spaces. The course also covers the design process from start to finish, which is essential for creating successful interior design projects.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Manager
A Marketing Manager develops and executes marketing campaigns to promote products and services. They work with other departments to develop marketing strategies and ensure that marketing campaigns are consistent with the company's overall business goals. Marketing Managers typically have a strong understanding of marketing principles and the latest trends in marketing. This course may be useful for those seeking to become marketing managers as it teaches the fundamentals of design and how to use design to create effective marketing campaigns. The course also covers the importance of user research and how to use it to inform marketing decisions.
User Researcher
User Researcher
A User Researcher conducts research to understand the needs of users. They work with other stakeholders to develop user personas and ensure that products and services are designed to meet the needs of users. User Researchers typically have a strong understanding of research methods and the latest trends in user research. This course may be useful for those seeking to become user researchers as it teaches the fundamentals of design and how to use design to create effective research projects. The course also covers the importance of user research and how to use it to inform design decisions.
Product Manager
Product Manager
A Product Manager is responsible for the lifecycle of a product, from its initial concept to its launch and beyond. They work with engineers, designers, and other stakeholders to ensure that the product meets the needs of users and is successful in the marketplace. Product Managers typically have a strong understanding of product development and the latest trends in technology. This course may be useful for those seeking to become product managers as it teaches the fundamentals of design and how to use design to create successful products. The course also covers the importance of user research and how to use it to inform product decisions.
Service Designer
Service Designer
A Service Designer creates and delivers services that meet the needs of users. They work with other stakeholders to develop service concepts and ensure that services are delivered in a way that is efficient and effective. Service Designers typically have a strong understanding of design principles and the latest trends in service design. This course may be useful for those seeking to become service designers as it teaches the fundamentals of design and how to apply them to real-world problems. The course also covers the importance of user research and how to use it to inform design decisions.
Fashion Designer
Fashion Designer
A Fashion Designer creates clothing and accessories. They may work for a specific brand or as a freelancer. They are responsible for designing and creating new collections, as well as overseeing the production process. Fashion Designers typically have a strong understanding of fashion trends and the design process. This course may be useful for those seeking to become fashion designers as it teaches the fundamentals of design and how to apply them to fashion. The course also covers the design process from start to finish, which is essential for creating successful clothing lines.
Researcher
Researcher
A Researcher conducts research to answer questions and solve problems. They may work in a variety of fields, including academia, government, and the private sector. Researchers typically have a strong understanding of research methods and the latest trends in research. This course may be useful for those seeking to become researchers as it teaches the fundamentals of design and how to use design to create effective research projects. The course also covers the importance of user research and how to use it to inform research decisions.
Experience Designer
Experience Designer
An Experience Designer creates seamless and engaging experiences for users across a variety of platforms, including websites, apps, and physical products. They use design thinking and user research to understand user needs and create solutions that are both functional and enjoyable. This course may be useful for those seeking to become experience designers because it teaches the fundamentals of design and how to apply them to real-world problems. The course also covers the importance of user research and how to use it to inform design decisions.
Art Director
Art Director
An Art Director manages visual projects such as marketing campaigns and oversees the production and execution of artwork. They are responsible for developing and communicating ideas, and making decisions that ensure a distinct visual identity for their brand. This course may be useful for those seeking to become art directors as it teaches the fundamentals of design and how to effectively use aesthetics to create visually appealing products. The course also covers the design process from start to finish, which is essential for managing visual projects.
Teacher
Teacher
A Teacher develops and delivers lesson plans to teach students a variety of subjects. They work with students to create a positive learning environment and ensure that students are making progress. Teachers typically have a strong understanding of the subject matter they teach and the latest trends in education. This course may be useful for those seeking to become teachers as it teaches the fundamentals of design and how to use design to create effective lesson plans. The course also covers the importance of user research and how to use it to inform teaching decisions.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/u53i5g/design
Reading list
We've selected 19 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Design: Creation of Artifacts in Society.
Provides a good overview of the design process, and of the various tools and techniques used in the design process by using the Design Process Matrix.
A classic in the field of design, offering practical advice on designing products and interfaces that are both usable and enjoyable. Explores the relationship between design and human cognition, providing valuable insights for designers.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the design thinking process, from problem identification to solution implementation. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the theory and practice of design.
Save
Delves into the psychology of design and how it affects our everyday lives. Provides a solid foundation in design principles and human factors, which are essential for creating user-centric designs.
This classic work on design explores the principles of usability and human-centered design. It must-read for anyone who wants to create products and experiences that are both useful and enjoyable.
Introduces the concept of lean startup methodology, emphasizing the importance of building, measuring, and learning from products and services. Provides a practical approach to testing and validating design ideas, reducing risk and increasing the likelihood of success.
Provides a practical guide to sketching user experiences. It valuable resource for students who want to learn how to communicate their design ideas effectively.
Is an extensive coverage of the theories and principles of design, and of the various tools and techniques used in the design process. It useful reference tool for anyone interested in learning more about the design process.
A comprehensive guide to the fundamental principles of design across various disciplines. Covers topics such as composition, color theory, typography, and user experience. A useful reference for designers seeking to enhance their understanding of design best practices.
Introduces the human-centered design process, known as design thinking. Provides a step-by-step guide to solving problems and creating innovative solutions through empathy, experimentation, and iteration. A valuable resource for understanding the creative process.
Explores the challenges faced by established companies in fostering innovation and adapting to disruptive technologies. Provides insights into the innovation process and the importance of embracing change, which is highly relevant for designers working in rapidly evolving industries.
Save
Focuses on fostering creativity and innovation in individuals and teams. Provides exercises and techniques to develop problem-solving skills, generate ideas, and overcome creative blocks. Encourages designers to embrace experimentation and take risks.
Provides a practical guide to value proposition design. It valuable resource for students who want to learn how to create products and services that meet the needs of customers.
Save
Provides a practical guide to the sprint design process. It valuable resource for students who want to learn how to solve problems and test new ideas quickly and effectively.
Save
Provides a behind-the-scenes look at the design process at IDEO, one of the world's leading design firms. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the creative process.
Explores the intersection of anthropology and design. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the cultural and social dimensions of design.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the engineering design process. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the technical aspects of design.
Explores the emerging field of interaction design. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the design of interactive products and services.
Explores the history of design and its impact on our lives. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the cultural and social dimensions of design.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/u53i5g/design
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Rating
4.6
Effort
Approx. 14 hours
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Pennsylvania
Instructor
Karl T. Ulrich
Language
English
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