Cross-Cultural Perspectives in the Field of Design (BIP) (3 cr)

Evaluation scale

Approved/Failed

Objective

Student is able to: - develop intercultural sensitivity and flexibility to work with international design challenges - manage and act as an effective member of multicultural design teams - gain insights about diverse design approaches and customer needs

Location and time

Online + on campus intensive week at Laurea Leppävaara • Online phase: Three online sessions during April-May 2025 Planned dates: 9.4. at 15-17; 28.4. at 15-17; 13.5. at 15-17 • Intensive project week at Laurea Leppävaara: 19.-23.5. 2025 at 9 - 17 • Online session 9.6. at 15-17

Materials

Recommended Reading: • Stickdorn M., Hormess M., Lawrence A. & Schneider J. 2018. This is service design doing. Sebastopol: O’Reilly. eBook available: https://laurea.finna.fi/Record/laurus.90507 Complementary Method Library: https://www.thisisservicedesigndoing.com/methods • Polaine, A., Løvlie, L. & Reason, B. 2013. Service Design. From insight to implementation. Brooklyn, N.Y.: Rosenfeld Media. • Liedtka J. & Ogilvie, T. 2011. Designing for growth – a design thinking toolkit for managers. Columbia University Press, New York. • Knapp, J. 2016. Sprint. How to solve big problems and test new ideas in just five days.

Teaching methods

This Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) includes compulsory online and campus phases (see dates below). The BIP is implemented as part of Pioneer Alliance, welcoming students and staff from European partner institutions. It includes a design challenge under the Pioneer theme inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable cities. https://pioneer-alliance.eu/about-pioneer/mission-statement/

Employer connections

This blended international course explores the principles and practices of service design with a focus on creating multi or bilingual solutions. Students will learn to design services or work place practices that cater to diverse linguistic needs, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility. The course combines design knowledge with a hands-on intensive design process, including team work and collaboration with real-world partners.

International connections

Pioneer Alliance: https://pioneer-alliance.eu/

Completion alternatives

N/A

Student workload

3 ects = appr. 80 h Please be prepared for full work days (appr. 9 - 17) during the intensive project week in May 19-23, 2025 The week will include one recreational/cultural event. Possibility to extend to 5 ects with an additional essay. To be discussed with the learning facilitator.