In this course students explore the expansive, multidisciplinary field of industrial design and experience firsthand the design process from market research to finalized concept. Emphasis is placed on learning how to think like a designer to: identify and define problems; conduct design research methods; brainstorm ideas; generate 2D concept drawings and 3D concept models; validate ideas through testing; and revise, refine, and finalize design solutions in detailed drawings and working models. Students build empathy and problem-solving skills in a series of human-centered design challenges and work to understand how to integrate a suite of complementary skills—researching, writing, drawing, modeling, and presenting—in the process of designing innovative solutions for people. Students create a final presentation of their own design. Basic drawing skills, while not required, will aid in students taking full advantage of the course.
Students looking for a full industrial design immersion may take this course in combination with Sketching + Rendering for Design Thinking.
RISD degree students: This course offers 3 transfer credits with pre-approval from your department head using the Prior Approval for Transfer Credit Form. Submit the signed form to the Registrar’s office and then complete the online course registration.
Course #0815
Amy Leidtke
Schedule B
June 24–July 30, 2021
Thursdays + Fridays, 10 am–1 pm ET
Online, Live
Tuition $2,300
3 Credits
Faculty
Amy Leidtke
Amy Leidtke is an industrial designer, artist and educator who combines the disciplines of research, strategic and master planning, ideation and design development, and participatory design workshops in an inclusive professional design practice, Leidtke Design. For more than 20 years, she has designed toys, activities and interactive play and learning environments for families and children. She is a faculty member for the RISD graduate and undergraduate programs, and holds a BFA from Columbus College of Art and Design and an MID from Rhode Island School of Design. Photo Credit: Marybeth Meehan