In this course we examine speculative and critical design methodologies which challenge the narrow assumptions and preconceptions that typically limit the form and function of designed artefacts. These methodologies look beyond a functional instrumentalism to consider how design can be used to incite mindful reflection rather than blind consumption, as well as address society’s “wicked problems”. The processes and practices considered involve designers imagining futures based on current technological and cultural trajectories; but rather than accepting those trajectories, design is used as an instrument to incite change and alter their direction. The course uses design projects as the main vehicle for the exploration of speculative design theories and methodologies. The projects are not confined to any particular medium or discipline but require students to question what they produce and why.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- apply design as a cultural practice with complex agendas and implications for society;
- design and produce artefacts that embody complex critical ideas and values;
- conduct research into design theories, artefacts and processes, and apply findings to creative production; and
- substantiate design outcomes with research and rationale.
Indicative Assessment
- Participation (10) [LO 1,3,4]
- Research report (1200 words) (20) [LO 1,3,4]
- Speculative design project (50) [LO 1,2,3,4]
- Project rationale (1200 words) (20) [LO 1,3,4]
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
130 hours of total student learning time made up from:a) 36 hours of contact comprising lectures, tutorials / workshops.
b) 94 hours of independent student research, reading and writing.
Inherent Requirements
Not applicable
Requisite and Incompatibility
Prescribed Texts
Not applicable
Preliminary Reading
Dunne, A., & Raby, F. (n.d.). Speculative everything: Design, fiction, and social dreaming.Dunne, A. (1999). Hertzian tales: Electronic products, aesthetic experience and critical design. London: RCA CRD Research.
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
Commonwealth Support (CSP) Students
If you have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). More information about your student contribution amount for each course at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 12
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are a domestic graduate coursework student with a Domestic Tuition Fee (DTF) place or international student you will be required to pay course tuition fees (see below). Course tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Course fees
- Domestic fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $3780 |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $5280 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
First Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3461 | 19 Feb 2024 | 26 Feb 2024 | 05 Apr 2024 | 24 May 2024 | In Person | View |
