Technology + Progress

From the readings "The Werkbund Debates" and "Technology and Progress at the Bauhaus" several similarities in the method and philosophy of modern design education between Bauhaus and the First Year Design programme become obvious. One of the most important similarities is the importance placed on workshop based learning. The readings also debate between handcraft and design, something still of relevance today.

In "Technology and Progress at the Bauhaus" it is said that Maholy-Nagy agreed with the social mission of the Bauhaus but thought that versatility and open-ended experimentation with materials and technology led to greater creativity in design as well. I think this is an idea that is particularly relevant to First Year Design as in many of core course subjects we are expected to explore, experiment and abstract compositions, materials and technology in order to create visually appealing and interesting work. More examples of First Year Design sharing similarities with Bauhaus's methods and philosophies can be seen in design papers such as 104. The paper enables us to explore the virtual world of building 3D objects whilst we are encouraged to also experiment with models and drawings.

I believe First Year Design has used methods and philosophies such as those from Bauhaus effectively to creat a general first year course in which we can fully explore our potential both on our own and signify our style as a group of designers together.