The term “design” underwent a significant transformation in meaning with the emergence of the mass-production era following
the Industrial Revolution, and this evolution continues into the present. Meanwhile, new expressions such as “design thinking”
and “design management” continue to appear, and amid these trends, the scope and meaning of “design” are often used ambiguously.
This course is intended for students who already possess a certain level of design learning experience. By surveying the historical development of design thought and practice since the modern era, the course aims to help students understand the conceptual background and transformation of “design,” and to reconsider its position in contemporary contexts.
This course is intended for students who already possess a certain level of design learning experience. By surveying the historical development of design thought and practice since the modern era, the course aims to help students understand the conceptual background and transformation of “design,” and to reconsider its position in contemporary contexts.
Building on prior experiences in design practice, students will examine the evolution of design-related trends since the Industrial
Revolution and develop a systematic understanding of what the term “design” entails.
Furthermore, based on this understanding, they will cultivate the ability to articulate their own perspectives and insights on design through logical discussion supported by scholarly knowledge.
Furthermore, based on this understanding, they will cultivate the ability to articulate their own perspectives and insights on design through logical discussion supported by scholarly knowledge.
- Explain the general trends in design from the post–Industrial Revolution period to the present.
- Explain the main contemporary design trends, considering their characteristics and backgrounds.
- Clearly and precisely explain, based on specialized knowledge, what the term “design” is intended to mean.
| Research Report | Groupwork | Peresentation | Total. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | 10% | 10% | 10% | 30% |
| 2. | 10% | 5% | 10% | 25% |
| 3. | 10% | 5% | 30% | 45% |
| Total. | 30% | 20% | 50% | - |
| Class schedule | HW assignments (Including preparation and review of the class.) | Amount of Time Required | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Orientation: Overview of the course and discussion on contemporary understandings of design. | Analysis and execution of the assigned task | 200minutes |
| 2. | Global Historical Developments: Overview of the historical evolution of design and its intellectual background worldwide since the Industrial Revolution. | Analysis and execution of the assigned task | 200minutes |
| 3. | Historical Developments in Japan: Overview of the development of design and its social roles in Japan since the early Shōwa period. | Analysis and execution of the assigned task | 200minutes |
| 4. | Design Trends in the 20th Century: Understanding post–World War II trends in design both internationally and domestically, and their defining characteristics. | Analysis and execution of the assigned task | 200minutes |
| 5. | Design Trends in the 21st Century: Exploring the diversification of design since 2000, including informatization, service design, and sustainability. | Analysis and execution of the assigned task | 200minutes |
| 6. | The Future of Design: Discussion on possible future directions of design based on historical perspectives. | 与えられた課aAnalysis and execution of the assigned task題に対する考察と遂行 | 200minutes |
| 7. | Summary and Declaration: Summarizing the course and presenting each student’s personal view on design. | Analysis and execution of the assigned task | 200minutes |
| Total. | - | - | 1400minutes |
Each assignment will be evaluated on a four-level scale: S, A, B, and F, corresponding to 10, 8, 6, and 0 points respectively.
Each assignment carries a specified weight, and the final grade will be calculated based on the ratio of the student’s total score to the total possible score if all S grades were achieved.
A score rate of 60% or higher is required to pass.
The evaluation method may be revised depending on class progress or assignment content. Any revisions will be announced in class.
Each assignment carries a specified weight, and the final grade will be calculated based on the ratio of the student’s total score to the total possible score if all S grades were achieved.
A score rate of 60% or higher is required to pass.
The evaluation method may be revised depending on class progress or assignment content. Any revisions will be announced in class.
Textbooks and reference materials will be introduced in class as appropriate.
Before taking the course, students are encouraged to discuss the history of design with an AI and familiarize themselves with
an overview of its development.
- Consultations are available before or after class.
Students may contact the instructor in advance by email to arrange an appointment when necessary.
- Course that cultivates a basic interpersonal skills
- Course that cultivates a basic problem-solving skills
| Work experience | Work experience and relevance to the course content if applicable |
|---|---|
| Applicable | The course is taught by a faculty member with professional experience in design promotion. |
- 4.QUALITY EDUCATION
- 9.INDUSTRY, INNOVATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Last modified : Mon Oct 20 04:03:56 JST 2025