The aim of the course is to familiarize students with the fundamental
characteristics of and major figures in a variety of important design
fields, including: information and graphic design; apparel and fashion
design; product and industrial design, architecture and interior design; and
interface and multimedia design. On the basis of this background knowledge,
and through specific course assignments, students will be expected to
critically analyze a variety of designed objects using the language common
to the discipline. These analysis techniques include:  ordering principles,
such as axis and symmetry; materials; and overall concepts, such as organic
or geometric approaches. Finally, on the basis of this work, students will
be required to write brief, cogent essays in which they meaningfully assess
and compare the design qualities of different work.

In addition to these papers, study questions covering the course material
will be assigned on a weekly basis. There will also be a number of in class
writing assignments. Further, there will be giving regular, visually based,
quizzes and exams to ensure that students are acquiring an understanding of
the key concepts being introduced in the class. Specifically, a mid-term and
final exam will be given. These will consist of visual identifications and
short answer questions. Pop quizzes will be given periodically as well to
test that students are internalizing the material presented in class, and in
the readings.