Product Design for 16 to 18 Year Olds

This course is a focused and fast-paced introduction to product design. It gives students a taster of the many skills used to complete a successful design project. Students are encouraged to explore ideas and experiment with materials through sketching and model making. It is a unique hands-on project based learning experience, giving an insight into what it is like studying at CSM.

During this course, students work independently and sometimes in groups on their own project set to a specific brief. Students are guided through the design process, which includes areas such as research, strategy, idea generation, design development and feedback. Different theories and industry topics within product design are introduced by short talks, videos and workshops. It is expected that students do lots of drawing and experiment with three-dimensional form. On the final day students, get the opportunity to present their work in an exhibition-style environment where they receive invaluable feedback.

On completion of this course, students will get an understanding of the design processes and how to apply this to projects. Students gain the ability to communicate and present ideas trough drawing and three-dimensional form. This course is packed with information to reference and study further. It is an ideal opportunity for students to explore and experiment with disciplines within product design and to obtain appropriate material for portfolio applications.

Topics covered include:

• The design process
  
• User centred design
  
• Innovation
  
• Maker culture
  
• Sustainability
  
• Portfolio applications
  
• Further Learning/studies

Skills covered include:

• Drawing
  
• Sketching
  
• Model making
  
• Technical drawing
  
• Presentation
  

Course taught through:

• Individual project work
  
• Group exercises
  
• Short lecture-style talks
  
• Workshops
  
• Hands-on making
  
• Group feedback
  
• One-to-one advice

Students achieve:

• Understanding of the deign process
  
• Knowledge of relevant topics and learning resources
  
• Improved drawing skills
  
• Ability to make 3D models through understanding of material and form
  
• Obtain material for portfolio applications
  

Course Outcomes:

• A3 presentation boards
  
• Presentation model
  
• Drawings
  
• Sketches
  
• Sketch models
  

Course Level Beginners

Entry Requirements
Good drawing skills would be advantageous but not a requirement. You must be over 16 and under 19 years old in order to attend this course.

Who should take this course?
This course is designed to help students develop and discover their skills within product design, and will be particularly useful to those planning to study at Foundation or BA level.

Please note: This course is for students aged 16 to 18 years old only