Abstract
This case study explores the transformative potential of cross-disciplinary approaches in teaching interaction design for social impact. By integrating insights from diverse fields such as trauma-informed design, interactive dance, media theory, and environmental storytelling, the course challenges students to think beyond traditional design practices. Students were encouraged to create projects that not only demonstrated technical and creative expertise but also engaged deeply with emotional, societal, and ethical dimensions of design. The course culminated in a public exhibition where students showcased interactive installations addressing real-world issues, including online safety, animal testing, environmental awareness, and technology addiction. Through a combination of theoretical exploration, guest lectures, and hands-on project development, the course provided a rich learning environment that fostered critical thinking and innovative problem-solving. This pedagogical approach highlighted the value of interdisciplinary learning in preparing designers to tackle complex societal challenges, blending technical rigor with empathy and social responsibility. Looking ahead, this model of design education underscores the importance of collaboration across disciplines to equip future designers with the skills and mindset needed to create meaningful, impactful designs.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.21606/drslxd.2025.099
Citation
Pridemore, J., Briggs, M., Chen, A., Chiaramonte, L., Dietkus, R., Shao, F., Tairy, B., Xia, F., Xiao, Y.,and Yates, A.(2025) Exploring Cross-Disciplinary Lessons in Interaction Design Courses, in Clemente, V., Gomes, G., Reis, M., Félix, S., Ala, S., Jones, D. (eds.), Learn X Design 2025, 22-24 September 2025, Aveiro, Portugal. https://doi.org/10.21606/drslxd.2025.099
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License
Conference Track
Case Study
Exploring Cross-Disciplinary Lessons in Interaction Design Courses
This case study explores the transformative potential of cross-disciplinary approaches in teaching interaction design for social impact. By integrating insights from diverse fields such as trauma-informed design, interactive dance, media theory, and environmental storytelling, the course challenges students to think beyond traditional design practices. Students were encouraged to create projects that not only demonstrated technical and creative expertise but also engaged deeply with emotional, societal, and ethical dimensions of design. The course culminated in a public exhibition where students showcased interactive installations addressing real-world issues, including online safety, animal testing, environmental awareness, and technology addiction. Through a combination of theoretical exploration, guest lectures, and hands-on project development, the course provided a rich learning environment that fostered critical thinking and innovative problem-solving. This pedagogical approach highlighted the value of interdisciplinary learning in preparing designers to tackle complex societal challenges, blending technical rigor with empathy and social responsibility. Looking ahead, this model of design education underscores the importance of collaboration across disciplines to equip future designers with the skills and mindset needed to create meaningful, impactful designs.