Without a deep understanding of people and cultures, how can we assume to propose a future for them? Developing skills of critical observation is essential to becoming a good designer. Deep observation provides unexpected knowledge that allows designers to imagine places that are thoughtfully enhanced or radically new. This course is a laboratory of observation, deep listening, synthesis, analysis and communication. It entails an exploration of methods used in the disciplines of ethnography, human centered design, and other design research fields to better understand how people relate to environments in a variety of contexts. Students will engage in fieldwork as well as readings, discussions and guest talks to support the cultivation of unbiased observation, recording, analysis and communication of insights.

Without a deep understanding of people and cultures, how can we assume to propose a future for them? Developing skills of critical observation is essential to becoming a good designer. Deep observation provides unexpected knowledge that allows designers to imagine places that are thoughtfully enhanced or radically new. This course is a laboratory of observation, deep listening, synthesis, analysis and communication. It entails an exploration of methods used in the disciplines of ethnography, human centered design, and other design research fields to better understand how people relate to environments in a variety of contexts. Students will engage in fieldwork as well as readings, discussions and guest talks to support the cultivation of unbiased observation, recording, analysis and communication of insights.