Explanation of “order” and “chaos” through “sequences”: Abstract thinking in basic design education

Abstract

This study aimed to demonstrate high potential in using mathematics to facilitate the transmission of design principles in basic design education. It provided an example of how students’ previous mathematical knowledge could be utilized to assist them in understanding the initial design principles. In this respect, “sequence” as a mathematical concept was used to explain the concepts of “order” and “chaos” to the first-year industrial design students who had basic mathematics knowledge. The case was studied as part of a workshop in which students from a Karabuk University's basic design studio participated. As part of the workshop’s theme, waste materials were utilized in the design process. The purpose of this study was to provide a teaching method for improving the dialog between teachers and students in basic design studio without providing existing examples which can interfere the learning process and limit or hinder the students’ creativity. A similar methodology can be developed based on other mathematical concepts in order to clarify and teach design principles in the future.