Guest Lecture from Monash University Indonesia at UNS Surakarta: Exploring "Design Approaches"
Participants of the Guest Lecture 'Design Approaches' from Monash University, Indonesia and Universitas Sebelas Maret pose together
Surakarta, Central Java – On October 29, 2024, Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta hosted a Guest Lecture series in collaboration with Monash University, Indonesia. The event, held at the Faculty of Art and Design, was part of the ongoing Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between the two institutions. This program aimed to deepen the understanding of design thinking and equip students with advanced tools to address contemporary design challenges effectively.
The guest lecture featured Dr. Eka Permanasari, an Associate Professor in Urban Design at Monash University, Indonesia, along with Kresna Wijaya Muladi Putra and Haris Sunansyah, a Master of Urban Design (MUD) student. They shared valuable insights with undergraduate students from the Interior Design and Architecture programs at UNS.
Insights into Design Thinking and Emerging Innovations
Dr. Permanasari began by highlighting how design thinking has evolved from classical principles—durability (firmitas), utility (utilitas), and beauty (venustas)—to incorporate sustainability, well-being, inclusivity, resilience, and socio-cultural sensitivity. She emphasized that contemporary design must address these multifaceted challenges to create spaces that are functional, environmentally responsible, and socially inclusive.
One of her key messages was the potential to innovate through constraints. She referenced projects like the Bottle School in Guatemala, built from repurposed plastic bottles, and Milan’s Bosco Verticale, a vertical forest that integrates greenery into high-rises. These examples illustrated how creative thinking transforms limitations into opportunities for meaningful, sustainable solutions.
Pandu Purwandaru, S.Ds., M.Ds., Ph.D., interior design lecturer at UNS, opened the Guest Lecture session
Dr. Permanasari also discussed emerging tools like Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), computational design, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in design practices. While AI can enhance efficiency, Dr. Permanasari’s stance was clear: while AI can streamline design tasks, it cannot replicate the emotional depth and intuitive understanding that human designers bring to the table. Thus, instead of viewing AI as a threat, designers should consider it a valuable ally that complements their skills.
Adding to the discussion, Kresna Wijaya Muladi Putra presented case studies from his coursework at Monash University, Indonesia, showcasing the application of tools such as data visualization, Space Syntax Analysis, and AI-driven persona analysis in urban design projects.
Mastering Presentation Skills in Design
The second session focused on the critical role of communication in the design profession. Dr. Permanasari explained how effective presentation skills are inseparable from the lives of architects and interior designers. As professionals who frequently engage with clients, designers must be able to convey their ideas clearly and compellingly. She emphasized that presenting is not merely about showcasing designs but about building trust, understanding client needs, and creating a narrative that resonates with stakeholders.
Concluding the session, Haris Sunansyah further elaborated on the importance of packaging and delivering ideas effectively. He demonstrated a presentation as an example, showcasing how impactful visuals and persuasive language can be used to captivate an audience and clearly communicate complex design concepts. His demonstration served as a practical guide for students, emphasizing that well-presented ideas can significantly enhance the reception of innovative design solutions.
Additionally, Dr. Permanasari and Gita Rama Mahardhika, research assistant in Net-Zero Precinct (NZEP) research cluster, conducted an interactive session where the audience was encouraged to practice presenting their ideas. This hands-on activity allowed students to experience the challenges and nuances of delivering a compelling presentation, providing immediate feedback and valuable tips to help them refine their communication skills.
Dr. Eka Permanasari, hands over a token of appreciation to Dr. Deny Tri Ardianto and Ambar Mulyono, Ph.D.
The event was graced by key figures from UNS, including Dr. Deny Tri Ardianto, S.Sn., Dipl.Art., Dean of the Faculty of Art and Design, and Ambar Mulyono, S.Sn., M.T., Ph.D., Vice Dean for Non-Academic Affairs. Their support underscored the importance of international collaborations in enhancing the academic experience at UNS.
This guest lecture series not only provided students with practical knowledge of design thinking and modern tools but also fostered a collaborative spirit between Monash University, Indonesia and UNS Surakarta. The event stands as a testament to the commitment of both institutions to producing future-ready designers who can address complex global challenges with creativity and innovation.