I believe that meaningful design education extends beyond the studio. Taking students out of their familiar working environment and engaging them in seminars and workshops allows them to connect theory with practice and to experience design as a collaborative, inquiry-based process. These activities encourage critical thinking, active discussion, and a broader understanding of the cultural, social, and professional contexts that shape design practice.

Throughout the academic year, I facilitate and coordinate a range of seminars and workshops in collaboration with colleagues, industry practitioners, and guest speakers. Bringing professionals and subject experts into the learning environment exposes students to current industry perspectives, emerging trends, and the realities of creative practice. This not only enriches their learning experience but also helps them begin building professional networks.

Many of these sessions take place both on campus and online through platforms such as IDEO U, Coursera, and the Interaction Design Foundation. I also encourage students to participate in external, industry-led conferences and workshops as part of their professional development. By engaging with these diverse learning experiences, students begin to see design as a living discipline — one that thrives on dialogue, collaboration, and continual exploration.