The Social Design Studio's program aligns with Roger Tallon's words: "Design is neither art nor a means of expression, but rather a methodical creative process that can be applied to all conceptual problems," with the primary goal of designers being social progress.
Design does not necessarily have to be socially engaged; it may focus on visual appeal, often leading to easy success. A parallel, non-commercial approach has emerged, focusing on two contemporary movements: ecological and social design. These two movements, not necessarily opposed, are often described as engaged, conscious, and responsible. Social design, in particular, pertains to creating products and services that enhance the quality of life. These include solutions for the elderly and people with disabilities, ways to cope with illness or temporary dysfunctions, or to prevent them. There are also educational aids, games and toys, skill stimulators, and structures that enhance the comfort of performing everyday, repetitive tasks. An important aspect of pro-social activities is the elimination of limitations and exclusions. These are the challenges posed to students.
The topics of the assignments stem from the broad spectrum of meanings associated with the term 'social'. They encompass everything from societal issues and community-specific challenges to concepts of social production, common ownership, and individual and collective actions. In essence, these projects explore how design can address societal needs, from serving the general public to supporting specific communities.
The course emphasizes three core elements of non-linear design: analysis, synthesis, and verification. These elements are woven into every stage of the design process, helping students generate new ideas and develop their concepts. The innovative nature of the solutions, which set a new standard, is achieved through students' independent research and experimentation with various models.
BA PROGRAM
The Social Design Studio offers a four-semester undergraduate core course for second and third-year design students, culminating in final one-semester project. The curriculum encompasses the following key areas: the study of form and function; the resolution of complex functional problems; and the development of the concept of universal design – ‘designed for everyone’.
The primary objective of this course is to highlight the role of responsible design in identifying and addressing societal challenges. The course emphasizes the pro-social ethos of the designer's profession, emphasizing empathy, a user-centric approach, and an understanding of broader contexts, while rejecting any form of exclusion. A crucial goal is to cultivate a creative mindset in students, fostering a continuous drive to enhance their knowledge, skills, and social competencies within the realm of design.
Design projects, progressively increasing in complexity, present novel challenges, stimulate creativity, and provide a foundation for independent research and experimentation, thereby contributing to the development of the students' design skills. The methodical design process – encompassing knowledge acquisition, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation – fosters independence by enabling students to draw their own conclusions and construct supporting arguments.
BA Degree Projects Completed at the Studio (2021-2024):
Karolina Bandurska: Reactive dog walking aid, 2024 Supervisor: Dr hab. Bogumiła Jóźwicka Consultant: Magdalena Nowak Reviewer: Dr Tomasz Kwiatkowski
Aleksandra Bogdan: On-the-go hygiene kit, 2024 Supervisor: Dr hab. Bogumiła Jóźwicka Consultant: Magdalena Nowak Reviewer: Dr Mirosław Rekowski
Kseniya Darhevich: Home foot relaxation kit. Supporting healthy practices, 2024 Supervisor: Dr hab. Bogumiła Jóźwicka Consultant: Magdalena Nowak Reviewer: Dr Mirosław Rekowski
Alicja Zdrojewska: Dog carrier. A bike attachment for dog transportation, 2023 Supervisor: Dr hab. Bogumiła Jóźwicka Consultant: Magdalena Nowak Reviewer: Dr Tomasz Kwiatkowski
Alicja Krzykwa: A structure facilitating student relocation. A study of function and form, 2023 Supervisor: Dr hab. Bogumiła Jóźwicka Consultant: Magdalena Nowak Reviewer: Dr Paweł Gełesz
Weronika Malliou: A study of carry-on luggage, 2023 Supervisor: Dr hab. Bogumiła Jóźwicka Consultant: Magdalena Nowak Reviewer: Dr Paweł Gełesz
Marta Kaiser: Reducing stress in hospitalized children – therapeutic aid, 2023 Supervisor: Dr hab. Bogumiła Jóźwicka Consultant: Magdalena Nowak Reviewer: Dr Anna Wachowicz
Zuzanna Franczak: Glucometer: A study of function and form, 2022 Supervisor: Dr hab. Bogumiła Jóźwicka Consultant: Magdalena Nowak Reviewer: Dr Anna Wachowicz
Lidia Magiera: Preparing and eating meals – a scouting set, 2022 Supervisor: Dr hab. Bogumiła Jóźwicka Consultant: Magdalena Nowak Reviewer: Dr Mirosław Rekowski
Krzysztof Gerlée: Urban bicycle stand, 2021 Supervisor: Dr hab. Bogumiła Jóźwicka Reviewer: Dr Tomasz Kwiatkowski
Maja Soszyńska: Chess – reviving tradition, 2021 Supervisor: Dr hab. Bogumiła Jóźwicka Reviewer: Dr hab. Marek Średniawa
