Stuff That's Optional: People at Play

Catalog description

Stuff that's optional: People at play Unlike our necessary work that provides sustenance for self and dependants, our recreation is optional and chosen. Products that support recreation are, likewise, an option. Soccer balls, kayaks, daypacks, fly reels, chess sets, running shoes; for that matter, the entire recreational industry is based on election. Our lives are better off for it; play is good for us. In this studio/ project course we will investigate play as an aspect of human endeavor. There are readings, discussions, and sessions aimed at gaining an understanding of the field. We will then respond by searching out and framing design opportunities, ideate and propose, refine and test. We will make stuff as teams and individuals that help us further define what it means to be humans at play. This course is intended for Junior and Senior Design Majors.