This subject introduces foundation knowledge of the historical background and context of contemporary experimental design. The course engages with a range of histories, themes and practices of experimental design. It will cover experimental design from the late 19th century to the 1980s for historical context but focus on the period since the 1990s. Students explore dominant paradigms of design including functionalism, innovation, avant-gardism and social reform, and engage with theoretical design discourse concerned with consumerism, globalization and sustainability. The subject will demonstrate the interdisciplinary facets of experimental design in relation to design theory, visual art and design practices.

Assessment in this course includes tutorial presentations, written essays and contributions to class discussion.