The course will introduce design students to the meaning of the senses in human-product interaction. The visual senses seem to be prevalent when designing, however sound, touch and possibly smell have a meaning of their own that designers should be aware of. First, to avoid sensory incongruence, but more important, to create rich sensory experiences, where the senses are in harmony and enforce each other.  

Learning objectives

Students will become aware of the importance of the different senses, will gain knowledge about the meaning of the senses, and will develop aesthetic sensitivity for the senses in design. In addition, student will develop skills to design for the senses. 

Format

The course will consist of a mix of lectures, hands-on experiences and design exercises. Students will alternatively work in groups and individually.

The course will be concluded with a final presentation of the design work.

Assessment

The course will be completed with a design exercise (in groups) and a learning evaluation (individual short essay). Both will be assessed along the criteria derived from the learning objectives:

-  the student shows awareness of all the senses

-  the students shows insight and knowledge about the meaning of the senses

-  the student shows being sensitive to the aesthetics of the senses

-  the student shows skills to design for the senses.