INV -Innovation

A contextual inquiry and qualitative research into the definition of innovation at University of Portland. Students will be introduced to open ended methods of design ethnography and qualitative research to explore creative modes of community engagement to determine the shifting and contextual definitions of innovation. The course culminates in the presentation of a documented process and a report of their findings. 

This course introduces the student to the innovative mindset as the art of empathy-driven design, making, & collaboration for the creation of ideas and the ability to act upon them. Students will discover creative and empathetic methods to discover and reframe problems. In addition to reviewing various methods for collaboratively generating ideas and how to communicate and constructively critique them.

Students gain experience with models that improve their empathy and design for human interaction. Students will use a variety of techniques derived from a broad variety of disciplines to develop approaches to solving contemporary social problems. Reading and theory are integrated with observational fieldwork.

Introduction to the basics of concept visualization through iteration and physical prototyping. The class covers the design process, problem solving, interdisciplinary team work, current industrial practice, manufacturing process capabilities using accessible materials, and simple drawing techniques to build models that are tangible representations of concepts for new designs. Fee: $50

This practicum allows students in the Innovation Minor to direct the innovation processes and methods to solve big problems in a human-centered way for real-world partners in the Portland community and beyond. Students must demonstrate an awareness of prominent issues in their chosen fields and develop a rigorous design process that identifies opportunities for creative intervention and innovative problem solving.