Design for Climate Leadership

An exploration of the science of climate change & the role of design in developing solutions.

Objective & Outcomes

The course introduces students to the science of climate change, the vulnerabilities of different populations to CC impacts, and the range of actions pursued by individuals, organizations and nation-states in response to it. We will also critically explore the role of design in contributing to the current trajectory of CC, and in developing strategies for mitigation, adaptation and resilience to CC. A focal project with a civic and/or corporate partner provides an opportunity for students to understand how issues of climate risk, mitigation and adaptation play out in specific contexts, and how as designers they can work with such partners to articulate goals, develop strategies and engage relevant stakeholders in implementation.

Students completing the course will gain an appreciation for the role of designers in understanding the multifaceted climate challenge and co-designing solutions for it.

Typical Schedule

Session 1: Climate Change: Science & impacts
Session 2: Climate Change: Science & impacts
Session 3: Climate Change: Science & impacts
Session 4: Primary & Secondary Research to Understand Focal Project
Session 5: Primary & Secondary Research to Understand Focal Project
Session 6: Primary & Secondary Research to Understand Focal Project
Session 7: Primary & Secondary Research to Understand Focal Project
Session 8: Systems Mapping & Co-Design with Partners
Session 9: Systems Mapping & Co-Design with Partners
Session 10: Systems Mapping & Co-Design with Partners
Session 11: Systems Mapping & Co-Design with Partners
Session 12: Stakeholder Engagement Workshop & Debrief
Session 13: Stakeholder Engagement Workshop & Debrief
Session 14: Stakeholder Engagement Workshop & Debrief