• Design as Play: Using the Daily Drop Cap Challenge to Reinforce Playfulness and Experimentation (13.1)

  Macy 106B

  • Brooke Hull, Assistant Professor of Graphic Design, and Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, Pennsylvania State University

  Utilizing design as play as a pedagogical tool, students in my typography classes engage in an activity drawing a letterform at the class start. Having evolved this activity over multiple semesters, I will trace the evolution and demonstrate how the activity engages students in play to increase their classroom success.

• Designing with AI? A Case Study on Experimentation and Intentional Teaching Strategies (13.2)

  Macy 107

  • Megan Rhee, Assistant Professor, University of Baltimore

  This session explores the integration of generative AI in a brand development course, where students tested its creative potential and limitations. Through AI-driven brainstorming, problem-solving, and image generation, they uncovered new possibilities while also identifying biases and constraints, fostering a more critical understanding of AI’s role in design.

• Risk-Taking, Form-Making: Implementing Experimental Methodologies for Practically-Minded Students (13.3)

  Winningham 205

  • Brandon Olsen, Assistant Teaching Professor, Iowa State University

  Many design students struggle to embrace non-conventional approaches, fearing failure, inefficiency, or a lack of practical application. This presentation explores both systematic and non-traditional methodologies meant to empower students to take creative risks while maintaining a logical approach to their process. By supporting risk-taking in a controlled environment, educators can help students develop more original, mindful, and compelling design outcomes.

• AI as Co-Pilot: Approachable, Experimental, and Critical Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence as a Design Process Tool (13.4)

  Winningham 214

  • Celi Monroe, Assistant Professor, St. Cloud State University

  This presentation outlines mindful workshops introducing AI to graphic design students, encouraging curiosity, reflection, and ethical awareness. Students explored AI as a supportive tool in branding projects, fostering experimentation and critical thinking. The goal is to develop adaptable, intentional, and empathetic designers prepared for evolving digital landscapes.