Taking a design class at Avantika University (MIT, Pune) as a guest lecturer was one of the most enriching experiences of my professional journey.
I had delivered a guest lecture at Avantika University, Ujjain, on the Design Management & Professional Practice course for students in the Industrial, Communication, and UI/UX design streams (BDes/MDes).
From the very first day, I was immersed in a world where creativity and practicality intersected, challenging me to think outside the box while adhering to real-world constraints.
The Learning Environment
The classroom was a vibrant space, brimming with various materials, tools, and inspiring design works from both current and former students. The students seemed very curious and eager to learn from each visiting faculty member. The overall vibe of the class was exciting. With all the electronic systems in place, it was easy for me to run my PPT through the connected systems.
Projects and Assignments
I taught lectures for two years, with my last session in 2022. The management provided me with the topics I needed to cover, so I prepared and researched those subjects thoroughly, creating a PPT for my presentations. One of the course highlights was the hands-on projects. In the end, students were tasked with designing everything from logos and posters to more complex projects. Each assignment pushed them to apply theoretical concepts in practical scenarios, fostering a deep understanding of design principles.
Experience and travelling
In the first year, I conducted classes online due to the COVID-19 scenario. However, the next time, I went to the university campus. I traveled from Mumbai to Indore, and the next morning, I used the college bus from Indore to the university campus, which is located on the outskirts of Ujjain. On my return, I took the college bus to Ujjain and then used public transport to get back to Indore.
Collaboration was a key component of the class. Students often worked in teams, which taught them the importance of communication and compromise in the design process. Peer critiques were also a regular part of the curriculum. In the design domain, it was daunting to present our work and receive feedback, but over time, we learned to appreciate the diverse perspectives and used the critiques to refine our designs. This concept, which is a particularly important part of the design process, is something I always try to explain to the students.
Challenges and Growth
I appreciate the structure of the course and commend the university for inviting Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) from the field to teach their students. Balancing creativity with functionality, meeting tight deadlines, and overcoming creative blocks were all part of the journey. However, these challenges were also instrumental in my growth as a designer. They taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of iterative design.
Conclusion
Overall, taking a design class in college was a transformative experience. With over 22 years of experience in the design and creative field, it was truly enriching. It not only equipped me with valuable skills but also ignited a passion for design that continues to drive me today. The lessons learned and the memories made in that class will always hold a special place in my heart. If you have the opportunity to take a design class, I highly recommend it – it’s an experience that will profoundly shape your creative journey.
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