Perhaps more so than in any other region, the practice of
design in Scandinavia is deeply embedded in the cultural identity of the place.
Innovative design in Scandinavia is a highly valued part of daily life,
persisting ingeniously in the most commonplace of conditions. Design is
apparent in every facet of their culture—from print media to city planning. Our
current digital era has propelled Scandinavian art and design into the
homogeneous stream of the global image—yet it remains a model to emulate. Scandinavian
design culture and practice is dedicated to design that can improve the quality
of life both locally and globally and is based on the participatory
(collaborative) design model. The participatory design model that asks that
designers, architects, scientists, businesses, government and social
institutions, collaborate and co-design with local and global communities to
solve human need design problems.
Through intensive participatory workshops, study tours,
studio visits and lectures this class examines the advantages of
interdisciplinary community-based collaboration. Students are expected to use
multiple modes of inquiry to expand individual and group knowledge base. The
class also examines the complexities and challenges of cross disciple
collaborations including multiple professional agendas, collision of
discipline, political and business establishments and the needs of the
community.