Course Reflection 01

Throughout the first four classes of Design 200, I have learned a ton of interesting information about the field of design. Entering the class I really had no idea what design was, or that there was really a lot of information about it. I took the class because it seemed interesting but I really didn't know what to expect. Throughout the first four classes I learned a lot about what design really is and how large of a field it has become.

I never knew how closely the field of design was with other fields such as architecture and the fine arts. I learned that the idea of design is not all about just embellishing previous products purely for aesthetic intentions, but rather pushing new ideas and innovation onto old products along with the new to serve a purpose which will improve the lives of people. This was quite intriguing to me because it gave me the idea that designers are not only able to change the way we go about our daily lives, but are actively doing it every day.

I also found the pattern assignment quite interesting also. After the tour around campus and the ARC and FIN libraries, I was able to see how each of the buildings on campus is different and of a different design. It started to make sense to me why they look the way they do and how they can be seen from a designers perspective rather than just a normal student trying to get to class. I soon found myself stopping more often to get a better look at various buildings or statues, just to admire them from an artists perspective. A very cool project that definitely has made my walks to class more interesting.

On a closing note, I came into this class as an Engineering major wanting to explore other majors in an attempt to find something I actually like to do. I always liked to work with computer graphics and art, but never knew that there was an actual design program at OSU. Obviously, I have found it and have already met with the design advisor with the intention to switch my major to Pre-Design and apply for the visual communications field next winter. I am very excited and look forward to the rest of this course!

A Little About Me...

Hello everyone, my name is Dan and this is my blog for Design 200 Spring Quarter 2011.

Here are some tidbits about me that I wish to share:

• I come from a suburban town of about 2000, situated about 15 minutes outside of the city of Cleveland. I've lived there my entire life, although my family has moved a few times around the neighborhood.
• I am a freshman. I started off this year in Biomedical Engineering, but I soon learned that it is not something that I would enjoy, so I am basically just feeling out different classes and majors to find something that actually interests me.
• I enjoy playing sports, specifically baseball and lacrosse. On my lacrosse team I played as a midfielder for two years and eventually graduated to the captian of the attack squad. I love the sport because it involves a lot of endurance, the speed of the game is quite fast, and there is plenty of contact.
• I am an avid gym-go'er; I usually lift around 4-5 times a week. It is a great hobby and keeps me in shape.
• I also like to produce beats on my computer in my spare time. Anything from club music to hip-hop I have produced with a program I purchased called FL Studio. I've been experimenting with the program for about two years now, and it still provides me with enjoyment.
• I listen to all types of music except for a lot of country (although there are a few songs that I do enjoy).

As for the design course itself, I basically took it because it sounded interesting and seemed like something I would like. I consider myself pretty creative, and also consider myself quite good with computers, so I figured maybe this class could shed some light on what design actually is, and if it is something I could see myself doing in the future. Hopefully I can learn more about design and also get a chance to be somewhat creative in the process.