Students design a 50-100 page book at the end of the quarter to document their approach to problem solving, from initial research and sketches to final drawings and models.

Research As Process

Solving any problem is more important than being right.”— Milton Glaser

Basic Design 2 | Course: Studio | Students: 20 | The Ohio State University
Design 252. Winter Quarters 2011, 2012

After completing the introduction to basic design theory, sophomore students are introduced to a more rigorous set of methods that are required for more complicated problem solving. A research-based approach guides a series of studies that integrate formal, cultural, material, and mechanical concerns under tight time constraints. Students are introduced to concepts of safety and usability, the mechanics of simple machines, the influence of nature in design, and the integration of more advanced drawing and modeling processes, including the use of drills, lathes, CNC machines, and other shop tools. The final project documents an entire quarter’s work in a student-designed book, requiring a refinement in their approach to typography, photography, layout, organization, and writing.

Below:  Examples of student work presented as two-page spreads from their final project: a book documenting the quarter’s assignments.