DSN 615: Readings in Design Thinking
Prerequisites: None
Credit hours (3)
Students in this course, in conjunction with their thesis/project advisor, select
relevant readings to support and foster their research interests.
Detailed Description of Course
This self-paced elective course is to complement the existing MFA in Design Thinking
curriculum by offering students additional exploration into their research topics.
Students will identify 3-4 books related to their area of interest and submit an annotated
bibliography outlining the rationale for selection to the instructor (who is also
the student’s thesis/project chair). In coordination with the instructor, the bibliography
may be revised and/or approved. Students will complete the readings throughout the
semester and submit a detailed written explication of each book – annotating how the
content relates to their research. A final narrative synthesizing readings across
authors will demonstrate student’s knowledge and understanding of relevant contributors
in their field of study.
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
This course will be didactic, generally implemented through in-class lectures.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
Two programmatic learning outcomes are addressed with this course:
(#2) Synthesize concepts from multiple disciplines [Design thinking competency]
(#9) Incorporate research from various sources and implement appropriate methodologies
to create a final paper/thesis/project. [Design research competency]
Additionally, students completing this course will:
• Identify leaders in their area of interest
• Enhance understanding and knowledge of what is published in area of interest
• Refine research topic
Assessment Measures
Assessment will be measured by written explications of selected readings. It is also
expected that students will synthesize across authors.
Other Course Information
None
Review and Approval
December 11, 2016
April 8, 2014