Civic Innovation: Design in Practice & I

Civic Innovation: Design in Practice & Imagination is an introduction to how human-centered design methodologies are being used in government contexts and to the human questions that preoccupy designers working to innovate around policy and service delivery. The course explores the utility of design methods for addressing current-day public-sector and social challenges – and for inventing the policy and social solutions of the future. This new seminar course brings together readings in social theory, applied methods from design-driven innovation practice, and student-led case studies in current and future civic innovation efforts. Its particular focus is on broadening students' understanding of results-oriented civic innovation tactics to encompass ongoing debates around power, data, embodiment, community, craft, and meaning.