Queens College
DESN 370: Special Topics in Design
Fall 2024
Mondays, 1:40 PM – 5:30 PM
Klapper 107 and Zoom
Slack Channel
Course Description
In the rapidly evolving landscape of design, generative AI stands at the forefront, offering groundbreaking possibilities and posing new challenges. This course is designed for undergraduate Design BFA students seeking to explore the potential of AI in the creative process. Students will delve into a comprehensive exploration of various AI tools, including Adobe Firefly, ChatGPT, DALL-E, MidJourney, Stable Diffusion, Eleven Labs AI, Runway ML, and others, learning to integrate them into design workflows.
The course combines theoretical learning with hands-on projects, enabling students to not only grasp the functionalities of these tools but also understand their practical applications in real-world design scenarios. As they progress, students will be encouraged to develop a critical perspective on the use of AI in design, particularly focusing on the ethical considerations such as bias, authorship, and the societal impact of AI-generated content.
Through lectures, workshops, guest speaker sessions, and collaborative projects, students will gain a nuanced understanding of how AI can augment, transform, and sometimes challenge traditional design methodologies. The course culminates in a final project where students will apply their learned skills to create comprehensive design works that reflect their mastery of AI tools and their thoughtful engagement with the ethical dimensions of AI in design.
Course Objectives
- Understand the Fundamentals of Generative AI: Gain a foundational understanding of what generative AI is, its history, and how it functions, particularly in the context of design.
- Proficiency in AI Design Tools: Develop hands-on skills with various AI tools such as Adobe Firefly, ChatGPT, DALL-E, MidJourney, Stable Diffusion, Eleven Labs AI, Runway ML, and others, learning how to effectively incorporate them into the design process.
- Critical Analysis of AI Applications: Analyze and critique real-world applications of AI in design, understanding both the advantages and limitations of these technologies.
- Ethical and Societal Implications: Examine the ethical, cultural, and social implications of using AI in design, including issues of bias, authenticity, and the impact on traditional design roles.
- Creative Problem Solving with AI: Apply AI tools to solve design challenges, fostering innovative thinking and creative problem-solving skills.
- Integration of AI with Traditional Design Practices: Learn how to blend AI technologies with traditional design methods to create novel and effective design solutions.
- Future Trends and Continuous Learning: Explore emerging trends in AI and design, preparing students to adapt and continue learning as technologies evolve.
- Collaboration and Communication: Develop collaboration skills through group projects and enhance the ability to communicate design concepts and processes, both verbally and in written form, especially in relation to AI-generated content.
- Project Management and Execution: Gain experience in managing design projects from conception to completion, utilizing AI tools as part of the workflow.
- Reflective and Ethical Practice: Cultivate a reflective practice that considers the ethical dimensions of AI use in design, fostering responsible and thoughtful use of technology in creative work.
Learning Outcomes
- Mastery of various generative AI tools and their application in design.
- Understanding of the ethical, social, and cultural implications of AI in the creative industry.
- Development of critical thinking skills about the future of design in the AI era.
- Ability to integrate AI with traditional design practices for innovative solutions.
Professors Contact Info
Name: Danne Woo
Email: danne.[email protected]
URL: dannewoo.com
Office Hours: calendly.com/dannewoo/office-hours
Grading
Attendance:
Two (unexcused) absences result in grade drop and four absences result in a failing grade. Late or early departure from class (15 minutes) is the equivalent of ½ absence.
To earn an A:
All class work and homework is excellent. Projects have been completed when assigned. The work shows a development and understanding of the principles discussed in class. It is presented immaculately. There is regular and prompt attendance and participation during critiques and an enthusiasm toward the material being presented throughout the semester. This is exceptional work.
To earn a B:
All assigned work completed in a thorough manner. An understanding of the principles and lessons covered in class is evident. The student comes to class regularly and on time and participates in critiques and discussions. This is better than average work.
To earn a C:
Most class assignments and homework have been completed. Regular attendance but minimal or negative class participation. There is understanding of most of what’s being presented in class. This student shows some interest in the course content. This is average work.
To earn a D:
Most class assignments and homework have not been completed. Marginal effort made to understand the course objectives and very little or negative participation on behalf of the student. Spotty attendance. This means below average work.
To earn an F:
Student has not completed 1⁄3 of the course work and has missed too many classes. This student doesn’t participate or has a bad attitude and shows no interest. It means not enough work, attendance, and/or effort to pass the class.