Classes

Prerequisite: None

This course offers a deep dive into best practices for engaging in the early stage innovation and design thinking processes. Students analyze problem contexts in ways that make design solutions more likely to be adopted by end-users, including learning how to observe users, ask the right questions, and develop and articulate insights that lead to better solutions. This class is a practical design process course for anyone considering future work in design, including User Experience (UX), Interaction Design (UI), Human-Centered Research and Design (HCR/HCD), technological innovation (R&D), or early-stage entrepreneurial activities.

Class Time:  Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1:15PM - 2:30PM

Location: TBD

Prerequisite: None

This hands-on, project-based course takes students through the full Design Thinking process using the IBM Enterprise Design Thinking framework. Working in interdisciplinary teams, students tackle a real-world industry challenge from empathy to implementation, developing skills in research, ideation, prototyping, and testing. By the end of the semester, students gain practical experience applying human-centered design methods to complex problems, preparing them for innovation-focused roles in any field.

Class Time: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4:15PM - 5:30PM

Location: TBD

Prerequisite: None

Open to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd year students.  Being able to make things with hand tools and digital fabrication tools will help you quickly test ideas, clearly communicate concepts, and solve problems in your life.  Hosted in the Wond'ry, this course provides an introduction to design thinking, computer-aided design (CAD), rapid prototyping methods, and the strategies to actualize your ideas.  Also, you get to make stuff!

Eligible for Immersion Vanderbilt's Immersive Experience component

Class Time: Mondays & Wednesdays, 12:20PM - 2:20PM

Location: ESB 201 (Wond'ry 2nd Floor Lounge)

Prerequisite: ME-3273 or DF-2100

This making course builds on skills learned in ME-3273: How to Make Almost Anything or DF-2100: Rapid Prototyping and is open to all majors.  Students will embark on a team-based, semester-long design/build/test project, crafting a design with an external sponsor/client and then putting their design through test phases with potential customers or end users to determine needed modifications.  Covered topics will include translation of client requirements and constraints, concept development, advanced prototyping methods, customer research and testing, and iterative client engagement.

Class Time: Mondays & Wednesdays, 3:10PM - 5:00PM

Location: ESB 201 (Wond'ry 2nd Floor Lounge)  

Prerequisite:  ENGM 2210; ENGM 3700 or CE 4400 or EECE 4950

This project-based course focuses on the methods for managing the design, development, and commercialization of new products. Students will generate product concepts, develop a prototype strategy, model financial returns, explore intellectual property concerns, design retail packaging, and perform market testing to establish an optimal price.

Class Time: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 2:45PM - 4:00PM

Location: TBD

Prerequisite: None

This course explores of the dynamic intersection of the human body, technology, and design through a human-centered design process. Students will develop skills in textile identification and pattern drafting and draping for fit, comfort, and movement applied to the research, design, and prototyping of innovative wearable products that integrate emerging technologies such as smart materials, sensors, and responsive systems. Students will critically examine how fashion, product design, and technology converge to redefine the relationship between humans and wearables, with particular emphasis on sustainability and adaptive, universal design solutions.

Class Time: Tuesdays, 1:15PM - 2:30PM

Lab Section (Choose 1): Thursdays, 1:15PM - 2:30PM -or- 2:45PM - 4:00PM

Location: ESB 201 (Wond'ry 2nd Floor Lounge)  

Prerequisite: None

Rapid advances in electronics, automation, and connected devices are reshaping industries worldwide.  This course addresses the growing demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between concept and manufacturable product by empowering students with both the technical foundations and the collaborative, documentation, and outsourcing skills essential to real-world product development.  Students gain a competitive edge in fields ranging from consumer electronics and IoT to biomedical devices and sustainable technology-sectors driving innovation and shaping the future economy.

Class Time: Tuesdays, 2:45PM - 4:00PM

Lab Section (Choose 1): Thursdays, 1:15PM - 2:30PM -or- 2:45PM - 4:00PM

Location: ESB 201 (Wond'ry 2nd Floor Lounge)