Summer Scholars Program - Learning by Design: Visual Design and the Learning Sciences

Most people think that "learning" only happens within the walls of a classroom, but we are always being taught -- how to think, feel, believe, know, and be -- based upon how stories and ideas are communicated, arranged, and designed. Whether through a formal textbook or through an advertisement, a museum, or a picture book, visual designs play an important role in how we think and interact with the world. Using theories in education, the learning sciences, and visual communication design, the intent of this course is to broaden and complexify our understanding of "learning" within and beyond actual school buildings. As such, much of the "curriculum" for this course will happen around campus, and if possible, in South Bend and beyond, as we consider how concepts associated with the learning sciences combine with aspects of visual design and communication to "educate" individuals. Students will develop a greater sense of how design principles and methods can be utilized in physical or digital spaces to support learning sciences in establishing environments for intentional growth and learning. Possible "Topics" Include: The Notre Dame Football Stadium and sporting events The Notre Dame Architecture Building Notable places around campus -- dorms, classroom buildings, statues Zoos and Museums Malls and Grocery Stories Contemporary TV Shows Monuments and Memorials Theme Parks Depictions of Teaching & Learning in Culture Social Media and Advertisements