From School to Studio: Exploring Product Design Education with Jim Dale

Talking D&T

Send me a message.

In this episode of Talking D&T, I sat down with Jim Dale, Head of Product Design at Nottingham Trent University, to explore the evolving landscape of design education. Jim shared fascinating insights into how university courses are adapting to prepare students for the diverse world of modern product design.
We delved into the transition students face when moving from school to university, discussing how Jim's department helps broaden their understanding of design beyond physical objects to include digital products, systems, and services. Jim emphasised the importance of creating an environment where students feel comfortable exploring ideas and even failing, which contrasts with the often high-pressure atmosphere in schools.
Our conversation took an unexpected turn as we explored the potential role of language skills, particularly poetry, in enhancing students' ability to use AI tools in design. This led to a broader discussion on the importance of communication skills for designers, including the ability to articulate ideas verbally and visually.
Jim also shared his thoughts on how design and technology education in schools could be improved, suggesting a greater focus on rewarding exploration and risk-taking, alongside maintaining core skills like drawing and making.
Throughout our chat, it became clear that design education is a complex and rapidly evolving field. Jim's perspectives offered valuable food for thought on how we can better prepare students for the multifaceted world of design, from school through to university and beyond.
(Text generated by AI, edited by Alison Hardy)
Support the Show.

If you like the podcast, you can always buy me a coffee to say 'thanks!'
Please offer your feedback about the show or ideas for future episodes and topics by connecting with me on Threads @hardy_alison or by emailing me.
If you listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, please take a moment to rate and/or review the show.
If you want to support me by becoming a Patron click here.
If you are not able to support me financially, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or sharing a link to my work on social media. Thank you!

פרקים

1. From School to Studio: Exploring Product Design Education with Jim Dale (00:00:00)

2. Design and Technology Education in Universities (00:00:06)

3. Fostering Creativity in Design Education (00:12:41)

4. Expanding Design Education Perspectives (00:21:26)