Future of Design Education | Dr Arundhati Guha Thakurta, Associate Dean, NMIMS School of Design

Guest: Dr Arundhati Guha Thakurta Associate Dean, NMIMS School of Design Hosted by ⁠Sanjay Reddy ⁠ Author | Podcaster | Designer In this episode of D Talks - The Design Podcast, Sanjay Reddy sits down with a design educator and researcher to explore a question that is becoming increasingly important for designers, students, educators, and parents: "What does it mean to learn and practise design in an AI-first world?" The conversation moves beyond the usual debate of whether AI will replace designers. Instead, it examines what technology cannot easily replace - "thinking, curiosity, empathy, observation, contextual understanding, ethical judgement, and the ability to identify the real problem behind what we see". Drawing from experience across cognitive science, human factors, industrial engineering and design education, the discussion explores how design schools need to evolve when tools can generate screens, prototypes, research summaries and ideas within seconds. The episode also looks at "humanising technology", the importance of real-world research, cognitive biases, responsible use of AI, transparency, consent, dark patterns and accountability in design. At its core is a concern that as technology makes creating easier, students should not lose the ability to question, observe, reflect and think independently. For design aspirants and students, the message is simple: learning every new tool is not enough. Software will change. Technology will continue to evolve. "Your ability to think is what remains irreplaceable". A conversation about AI, design education and the skills that may matter most in the future of design. Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction 03:15 - The AI Paradox 07:50 - Designers must never become merely prompt writers 09:42 - 2000 Design Schools in India | What should they actually teach? 13:30 - Psychology, Jugaad & root cause 20:50 - Humane centered & not Human centered 29:43 - Teaching ethics in the AI era 38:03 - Two types of students 45:20 - Conclusion __________ Listen to D Talks - The Design Podcast Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3458Ebf Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IG5KIZ __________ ⁠Book: Introduction to Design⁠ https://amzn.in/d/e86hRAr “Introduction to Design” isn’t just a book; it’s a helpful guide that clears up confusion, busts myths, and shows the way for new designers. With the help of beautiful and simplified diagrams and illustrations, this book makes understanding the design world even easier and more practical, empowering readers to explore their creativity with confidence. Split into four main parts, each one acts like a map, leading you through the world of design. It helps you understand what design is all about and figure out your own path within it. With easy-to-understand writing and detailed illustrations, this book goes beyond just teaching - it becomes a joyful experience, full of knowledge, and a journey of discovery and understanding yourself better. I've been designing for 15 years and if this book had come 15 years ago, I would have achieved all I did till now, in 8 years! Aaquib Wani Founder & Creative Director Aaquib Wani Design ________________________________________ Introduction to Design ⁠⁠online courses for UCEED, CEED, NID & NIFT⁠⁠ https://online.designexstudio.com/⁠ ________________________________________ Connect with Sanjay Reddy(Host) Linkedin ⁠⁠  / sanjayreddy144   Instagram   / sanjayreddy144