We are Interdisciplinary

Interdisciplinary studies and research prepares our students for success within research, scholarship and the workplace, where the ability to think across boundaries is increasingly important for future readiness and success. Interdisciplinary studies and research, at the intersection of disciplines, is where new ideas emerge and innovative research and problem solving happens.  In Design Studio, students are equipped with the process to navigate this (using design thinking), to solve real world problems for real people using real world (and industry standard) tools. 

 
 
 

  • Our world is interdisciplinary. Real-world problems are complex. No single discipline can adequately describe and resolve  issues. 

  • Collaboration is a way of life - students recognize that there are a variety of perspectives that can be considered  in an effort to understand most issues.

  • Interdisciplinary exploration is compelling, promoting engagement and learning.

  • Students whose research bridges multiple disciplines are prepared for a changing world.

  • A culture of collaboration sparks innovative discoveries.

 

Why Interdisciplinary?

In an interdisciplinary environment, students can grow in several areas:

  • Mental flexibility: students begin to understand different ways of learning, helping them become lifelong learners.

  • Collaboration & Communication: collaboration and teamwork are important life skills. Students learn to become effective communicators by working in groups and expressing themselves in creative ways.

  • Problem solving skills: students develop essential and problem-solving skills through learning of various subjects. They learn creative solutions to some of the most challenging problems. 

  • Real world understanding: learners often make unique connections between different areas of knowledge, which helps them make connections to real-world contexts.

  • Interdisciplinary thinkers: students learn to analytically and creatively embraces new ideas. This prepares them for graduate and professional studies and for fulfilling careers in new and emerging fields.

 
 

We Make to Think & Learn

The Framework for Maker-Centered Learning (by Agency by Design) is a bridge between the interdisciplinary learning and hands on work we do in Design Studio.

Looking Closely

We look carefully to notice intricacies, nuances, and details. By looking closely, one may begin to see the complexities inherent in objects and systems.

Exploring Complexity 

We build on close observations and explorations of complexity to see the potential for building, tinkering, re/designing, or hacking objects and systems.

Finding Opportunity 

We investigate interactions between the parts and people associated with objects and systems, including ranges of values, motivations, and priorities held by individuals who engage with particular objects and systems.

Design Thinking. Problem Solving.

Design Thinking is foundational to the way we think and go about our work in Design Studio. Design Thinking is personal toolbox for problem solving, In our setting, it draws on the humanities for empathy and ethnography; the arts and engineering for generating new ideas and invention; and the sciences for hypothesis creation, prototyping, testing, and reflection. Students develop the mindset to observe and identify situations where they can have an impact. Design Thinking equips our students with the tools and resolve to take action and look beyond themselves.