DESN 340: Ecological Practices in DESN

This interdisciplinary design course focuses on ecologically-informed design practices. Students are exposed to ethics of land-based and Indigenous worldviews about the vitality and agency of the natural world through readings and guests. Relationships with more-than-humans are fostered through a variety of ecological practices; these are aimed at visceral understandings that challenge anthropocentrism. This experiential learning is complemented with in-class discussions and progressive research about plummeting ecosystem health. Students develop actions and work through methodologies to develop design concepts directed to species and ecological flourishing. Nature becomes a collaborator and a beneficiary of the designs. Students are encouraged to explore alternate design processes that range from daily making (making-to-think), meditating in nature, journaling, body storming, and so on. They generate integrated design outcomes (designs that 'give back') such as Social Innovation for Sustainability (DESIS), Engagement Workshops, Informational Campaigns, Educational materials, and others, as they emerge.