DNB215 Design and Systems Thinking
To view more information for this unit, select Unit Outline from the list below. Please note the teaching period for which the Unit Outline is relevant.
| Unit code: | DNB215 |
|---|---|
| Prerequisite(s): | 72 credit points of completed study |
| Assumed Knowledge: | Introductory graphic visualisation skills are assumed knowledge. Beginner level research and design processes are assumed knowledge. |
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Timetable | Details in HiQ, if available |
| Availabilities |
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Unit Outline: Semester 1 2027, Kelvin Grove, Internal
| Unit code: | DNB215 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Pre-requisite: | Completion of 72 credit points of study |
| Assumed Knowledge: | Introductory graphic visualisation skills are assumed knowledge. |
| Coordinator: | Levi Swann | levi.swann@qut.edu.au |
Overview
This unit introduces the concept of systems thinking and its application in design practice to solve complex societal, cultural and environmental challenges. Building on prior units and foundational knowledge of design concepts, methods and strategies, you will consolidate processes for identifying opportunities, reframing problems, and innovating for ethical, sustainable and inclusive long-term systemic outcomes. To be able to tackle the most critical problems of our time, we must broaden our view to incorporate a more holistic and comprehensive view of design and systems. This requires the understanding and application of novel systems thinking approaches to the design of interconnected products, services and systems that are viable, feasible and desirable for people and the environment.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Use intermediate research skills for understanding contexts at the system-level
- Demonstrate integration of visualisation, mapping, prototyping and communication skills
- Apply intermediate design processes and strategies, specifically systems thinking
- Integrate skills and knowledge to demonstrate professional collaboration and individual responsibility through project management
Content
The major topics covered in this unit include:
- demonstrate an understanding of design processes and strategies, specifically systems thinking knowledge, at a beginner level
- application of design research skills at an intermediate level
- application and integration of design skills (iteration, strategies, usability, methods, visualisation, prototyping, technical documentation, presentation) at an intermediate level
- application of professional collaboration and project management skills at an intermediate level
- application of design for social, cultural and environmental responsibility at an intermediate level.
Learning Approaches
This unit may consist of lectures, design studios and discussions. The focus is on project-based learning in the design studio setting, where your work will be supported by lectures, one-to-one and group activities, feedback sessions, blended material, and workshops. In a studio, you may be required to present your work for discussion in a group situation where you will have an opportunity to explain your research and/or designs and receive feedback from your peers and staff. A key component of the studio is for students and staff to work together to learn about design. Your active participation and a sense of personal and professional responsibility for your development as a designer are essential for success.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Feedback in this unit is provided to you in following ways
- In-class formative exercises
- Criteria (rubric) sheets
- Canvas general comments to cohort group
- Collaborative peer feedback.
Assessment
Overview
This unit employs both formative (how your work is progressing) and summative assessment (grading of your work against an expected outcome). The summative assessment is designed to measure the level of knowledge and skills gained as well as how well you integrate new and prior knowledge and skills. Formative assessment will be given on one-on one or in groups in class as required.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Research and concept design exhibition
You will undertake an analysis of an existing system and develop concept designs based on the themes and criteria defined in your design research. The focus will be on identifying areas for improvement and proposing solutions through the creation of design concepts, which will be presented using appropriate communication techniques.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
Assessment: Integrated system design
You will present a thorough and holistic, and integrated system design idea through intermediate design methodologies and contextualisation of the project theme. This may include a combination of intermediate level of iteration strategies, usability, research and design methods, visualisation, physical and/or digital prototyping, technical knowledge and documentation, and implementation knowledge.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
Assessment: Annotated visual record
You will be required to submit an annotated visual record that documents all design activity from initial conception to final design completion. This may include research notes, sketches, brainstorming notes, progress reports, design iterations, and other relevant design materials. The purpose is to provide a comprehensive overview of your design process and showcase your design thinking abilities.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
There are no set textbooks for this unit. Please refer to the unit Canvas site.
Risk Assessment Statement
All students and staff are required to complete Tier 1 of CIESJ Student HSE Inductions for access to campus buildings and facilities. This must be completed online.
Tier 1 Visit and review all sections of the health, safety and environment
If requiring access to Z5, 10, 11, 12, 13 (Kelvin Grove) workshops, you must complete Tier 2 - Workshops HSE induction
Where substantial computer-based work is required, you are recommended to take regular rest breaks when engaging in prolonged computer-based work, and ensure that your workstation is set up for optimal comfort to prevent strain or injury.
Further information can be found on the unit Canvas.