This course reflects upon histories, theories and practices in the realm of design in order to provide an analytical framework for understanding present and future design from both the designers and consumer's viewpoint. Within this context a variety of themes and issues will be analysed in relation to: the 'designer' product, the designer's role in society, designer education, the designer and mass production and consumption. This course, through further reflection on historical and contemporary theories and practices in design, will address such specific issues as packaging, marketing and retailing of designed products as well as aspects of consumer psychology. The communication qualities inherent in design products, graphics and environments will be considered in some depth.