The Creative Process

The most engaging learning is centered around imagination and exploration

Overview

NuVu students explore real world topics in a hands-on studio environment. Using our design process, students solve complex challenges using creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration.

Studios are multi-disciplinary and may require robotics, coding, fabrication, electronics, or a variety of other technological skills.

Studio Brief

Each studio begins with an introduction of the Studio Brief. The Studio Brief provides the overall topic of inquiry Each studio begins with an introduction of the studio brief, which provides info about the topic that the studio will explore and the methods that will be used. In addition, each studio’s syllabus outlines the core skills that the studio will cover and the milestones that students will complete in order to build skills in those areas.

Brainstorming

Our coaches use brainstorming as a way for students to develop initial project ideas and connect these ideas to larger concepts and themes. Brainstorming takes place at different points in the studio process and includes individual, team-based, and group-based methods.

Design Research

Throughout the design process, students research the history, cultural context and future implications of what they are making. This research allows students to understand the project context, connect directly with experts, challenge their assumptions, and generate ideas that help them think broadly about the topic.

Create

Students create prototypes as a way to express their thinking. Prototypes can be sketches, cardboard mock-ups, 3D-printed objects, storyboards, digital models, diagrams, wireframes, or any manifestation of the progress of a student project.

Iterate

The bulk of the studio experience revolves around the iterative design process in which students develop a concept or solve a problem by continually exploring a multitude of options. It involves sketching, prototyping, testing, critique, analysis, and refinement of the idea based on feedback.

Critique

From the initial brainstorm all the way to the completion of the final product, students receive feedback from their coaches. Often, this feedback is given in the form of desk crits; after students share details about the current state of their project, coaches ask clarifying questions and offer thoughts about possible next steps.

Present

Students communicate their ideas and process through informal and formal reviews that take place during and at the end of the studio. During these reviews, students present how they iteratively developed their project and include research, process sketches, various iterations, and the final product.