Problem Description

Mobile phones, smartwatches, and smart glasses consistently gather data from us, in most cases even without us being aware. On the other hand, an increasing number of devices are infiltrating our public and private living spaces, measuring and saturating them with virtual data. This data is analyzed by artificial intelligence to generate new insights, classify, evaluate, and measure us, ultimately predicting our actions. Why is this relevant? There is an increasing need for being aware of the data: Data awareness involves being conscious and informed about the types of data being gathered, the purposes for which it is being collected, who has access to it, and how it is being (or might be) used.

Project Definition

The Designing Data X Cultures project addresses the megatrend of digitalisation by exploring data awareness from an intercultural perspective. In collaboration with Texas State University (TXST), Köln International School of Design (KISD) and Media Informatics TH Köln, the project brings together interdisciplinary student teams across geographic and cultural contexts. Through joint research and design processes, students will collect, analyze, and critically interpret data in the city in order to develop innovative analogue and/or digital design concepts, products, or interventions that foster public awareness of data practices in Austin and Cologne (city as an interface). At the end of the project we will have an exhibition at KISD. The project can be credited for the Data Literacy Certificate of the TH Köln.

Learning Outcome

Students will develop competencies in design, intercultural communication, critical data literacy, ethical reasoning and collaborative problem-solving in the context of digital design. By working in intercultural and interdisciplinary teams, students will research, collect, and critically analyze data, engage with AI-mediated systems, and iteratively develop analogue and digital design concepts through collaborative and reflexive design processes. These competencies enable students to navigate complexity, negotiate ethical responsibility, and design responsibly within globally networked, data-intensive societies, where cultural differences, technological mediation, and ethical considerations increasingly shape design practice and decision-making.

Participation Requirements

Basic design competencies, such as experience with design processes, visual or interaction design, concept development, prototyping, or research through design. Interest in data-driven design, digitalisation, and the cultural, social, and ethical dimensions of technology, including AI-mediated systems. Willingness to collaborate in intercultural and interdisciplinary teams, demonstrating openness to diverse perspectives, design practices, and working styles. Basic proficiency in English (spoken and written), as the project is conducted in an international learning environment. Availability for synchronous and asynchronous collaboration, including online meetings, workshops, critiques, and project milestones. Some meetings will be online and some in Cologne at the Köln International School of Desing.

External Partner

Collaboration with Texas State University (TXST) and Köln International School of Design (KISD) at TH Köln.