Approach and stakes

The positioning of CY Ecole de Design is reflected in its research axes.

Thus, design research is structured around two main thematic axes:

Mediums in design :

What mediums for today’s design ?

Today, design is no longer limited to wood or plastic, but encompasses the living, our ways of being together, and the technologies that shape our lives. These new materials, ranging from earth to AI, require new skills, new design professions, and new collaborations between disciplines. What are the characteristics of these new design materials? What are the working methods for these new mediums? How can we educate and train in these new design materials?

The stakes of sustainable and inclusive transition 

The challenges of sustainable development create new challenges for design and design research. It is primarily about using design to accompany the creation of new living infrastructures that connect and organize sustainable and inclusive activities. This involves understanding and analyzing the new interactions between stakeholders, new methods of value production, and new production and consumption cycles. It also involves conducting research through design, which means designing devices, artifacts, visualizations, mappings, and simulation tools that allow for testing hypotheses with the affected populations.

    A hands on approach

    Having a Fablab on the spot allows students and researchers to test and prototype as many times as necessary.

     

    Regarding the working methods for these new mediums, here are some common approaches:

    1. Research and Experimentation: Designers conduct in-depth research to understand the properties and possibilities of new materials. They experiment with different manufacturing processes, test prototypes, and evaluate material performance in real-world contexts.
    2. Co-creation and Collaboration: Given the complexity of new design materials, designers often work in collaboration with technical experts, scientists, and end-users. They adopt co-creation and interdisciplinary collaboration approaches to develop innovative and holistic solutions.
    3. Hands-on Pedagogy: Education in new design materials relies on a hands-on approach that combines theory and experience. Students are encouraged to experiment, prototype, and engage in concrete projects to gain a deep understanding of materials and their applications.

    Educational institutions in design are adapting their programs to train students in new materials and working methods. They emphasize experiential learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the integration of technological advancements in the design process.