Spiraling the design process offers a four step approach, permitting the design author to spiral up as well as out. A typical problem statement would be the assigning of a word or phrase that resulted from a classroom discussion, e.g., lock (Locke). Students will do extensive research and focus in on their ‘word’ interpretation; lock of hair, river lock, mechanical lock, etc. (gathering the ‘what ifs’).
At this juncture, the problem could be considered solved, and some students’ spiral up, but for those who need more idea gathering; spiral out, more research is necessary. The model makers and the prototypes spiral upwards, developing an increasing awareness of how things evolve to make the idea clearer, sharper, and more refined. Content is revealed and examined; more choices are presented and opened. The final step in the spiral is the ‘alternatives’ when the student realizes that being a designer is the vocation for them to pursue that other employment avenues should be investigated.
8th International Conference on Design Principles and Practices
At this juncture, the problem could be considered solved, and some students’ spiral up, but for those who need more idea gathering; spiral out, more research is necessary. The model makers and the prototypes spiral upwards, developing an increasing awareness of how things evolve to make the idea clearer, sharper, and more refined. Content is revealed and examined; more choices are presented and opened. The final step in the spiral is the ‘alternatives’ when the student realizes that being a designer is the vocation for them to pursue that other employment avenues should be investigated.
8th International Conference on Design Principles and Practices
