Design Studio: Relations unit (KDA104)

Introduction

This unit explores our designed worlds, the dynamic relationships between design, designers, culture, and society, examining how design shapes and is shaped by social contexts. Students will investigate how design functions as both a mirror reflecting cultural values and a catalyst for social change. The unit challenges students to consider their own agency as designers and to critically evaluate the ethical implications of design decisions across diverse cultural contexts.

Summary

Unit name	Design Studio: Relations
Unit code	KDA104
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Architecture and Design
Discipline	Architecture & Design
Coordinator	Mrs Sophia Holmes
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Introductory

Availability

Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August

Learning Outcomes

• Identify and describe the fundamental relationships between design, designers, culture, and society using appropriate design terminology and concepts.
• Analyse and interpret how design both reflects cultural values and influences social change through examination of historical and contemporary case studies.
• Apply critical feedback skills within creative projects.
• Evaluate the ethical implications of design decisions across diverse cultural contexts and articulate personal reflections on their emerging role as designers.
• Apply principles of design grammar to organise and compose design artefacts.

Fee Information

2027 fee information will be available in August.

Teaching

Assessment	Design Analysis - design context map (25%)|Learning Journey Map & Personal Design Manifesto (35%)|Design Relations (40%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.