Introduction to Bioinspired Textile Design Theory and Practice Online Short Course

Taught through a combination of lectures, practical exercises and discussion, this 6-week course introduces students to a new perspective for creating a more sustainable textile practice based on biology and materials science. Students are introduced to bioinspired textile design (BIT). Several topics are covered during the course including bioinspired structural design elements, material science for textile designers, and bioinspired textiles and sustainability. Students also gain an insight into how bioinspired textile design (BIT) can relate to their own practice. Who should attend? This course is aimed at designers, creatives, managers and entrepreneurs in the creative industries with an interest in learning how material science can help us extract textile design lessons in sustainability from biology. Level: intermediate / advanced Course outcomes By the end of the course, students should be able to: - Articulate the difference between biodesign and biomaterials - Identify mechanical material properties relevant to textiles - Describe how different disciplines intersect within the field of bioinspired textiles - Describe the 8 biological structures within different textile design practices - Select and apply appropriate test method to demonstrate the mechanical property of their textile(s) - Analyse case studies and identify structures and sustainability lessons in real-world examples - Explain how principles learned in the course relates to their own practice