Course summary

As the role of design, and the designer, within contemporary society continues to develop, so too does the nature and purpose of design practice. Design is not only an industrial or production-focused occupation; it is also becoming a critical tool for future-casting. This dynamic, new programme will explore the future, generate new knowledge and formulate hypotheses for how people might live moving forwards. In order to design effectively, a collaborative approach is essential to reveal multiple people-centred perspectives and enable the exchange and embedding of knowledge within teams to deliver focused innovation. Whether a designed product is a physical artefact, a service or an experience, knowing ‘how’ to understand what truly drives people, ‘what’ their needs are and ‘why’ remains fundamental to the role of a designer. Throughout the course you will develop highly-desirable skills, such as the ability to accumulate, articulate and extrapolate from findings to co-create value and meaning with, and for, partners. Whether we are members of a trade union, a ‘networked organisation’, public sector service provider or commercial enterprise, community group, artistic retreat or the citizenry in general, our activities have social, cultural, economic and ecological consequences. This programmes explores how the practices of collaborative creativity can be employed and enhanced through meaningful engagement with others and the diverse lives that they lead. The course offers ideal preparation for those who wish to apply for strategic roles in organisational and business development.