Considering "design with intent" within graphic design at a University of Technology

Conference: 

Discipline: 

Graphic Design & Visual Art

Keywords: 

  • good citizenship, curriculum, problem-solving, ethics

Download: 

Although based in various design disciplines the concept of user centred design (UCD) and "design with intent" has been linked to the notion of "human-centred principles", "design for behavioural change", "persuasion technologies" and "interaction design" at international design institutions for some time.

Understanding how user behaviour can influence technological solutions is critical for designers wishing to effectively tackle social issues such as eco-solutions, effective wayfinding design as well as the design of information brochures/pamphlets. Designers influence behaviour from a distance through the creative products and services that are produced based on their understanding of user behaviour.

According to design consultancy FROG designers acknowledge that instead of aspiring to influence user behaviour from afar there is a need for the products that are designed to have more immediate impact through direct social engagement. Although this aspect of the teaching of design is usually entrenched within a new media, interaction design or usability/service design department the notion is linked so closely to certain existing concepts within graphic design that it makes sense to include aspects of this within a re-evaluated graphic design curriculum.

DEFSA conferences

DEFSA promotes relevant research with the focus on design + education through its biennial conferences, to promote professionalism, accountability and ethics in the education of young designers. Our next conference is a hybrid event. See above for details.

Critical skills endorsement

Professional Members in good standing can receive a certificate of membership, but DEFSA cannot provide confirmation or endorsement of skills whatsoever. DEFSA only confirm membership of DEFSA which is a NPO for Design Education in South Africa (https://www.defsa.org.za/imagine).