Abstract
In this paper we examine the transformative potential of place-based design education through a collaborative, cross-cultural project involving first-year design students from the Pakistan Institute of Fashion & Design (PIFD) and Beaconhouse National University (BNU), Lahore, in partnership with the Social Innovation Academy (SINA) in Uganda. Utilizing a critical place-based pedagogical methodology, the project aimed to foster creative problem-solving, and cross-cultural collaboration through experiential and outdoor learning. Over three phases from 2017 to 2019, students participated in multidisciplinary activities that emphasized co-design and participatory practices within real-world contexts. Findings from the project indicate significant enhancement in students' abilities to navigate cultural diversity, engage in collaborative design processes, and develop social innovation projects. Challenges such as cross-cultural communication and managing complex group dynamics were also observed, highlighting areas for improvement in place-based learning frameworks. This research contributes to the discourse on design education by illustrating how immersive, place-based learning environments can equip students with the skills to address global design challenges effectively.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.21606/drslxd.2025.163
Citation
Hamid, A.,and Hameed, U.(2025) Beyond Boundaries: Exploring Design through Place-Based Learning, 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.2025.163
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Full Paper
Beyond Boundaries: Exploring Design through Place-Based Learning
In this paper we examine the transformative potential of place-based design education through a collaborative, cross-cultural project involving first-year design students from the Pakistan Institute of Fashion & Design (PIFD) and Beaconhouse National University (BNU), Lahore, in partnership with the Social Innovation Academy (SINA) in Uganda. Utilizing a critical place-based pedagogical methodology, the project aimed to foster creative problem-solving, and cross-cultural collaboration through experiential and outdoor learning. Over three phases from 2017 to 2019, students participated in multidisciplinary activities that emphasized co-design and participatory practices within real-world contexts. Findings from the project indicate significant enhancement in students' abilities to navigate cultural diversity, engage in collaborative design processes, and develop social innovation projects. Challenges such as cross-cultural communication and managing complex group dynamics were also observed, highlighting areas for improvement in place-based learning frameworks. This research contributes to the discourse on design education by illustrating how immersive, place-based learning environments can equip students with the skills to address global design challenges effectively.