I believe there is an obligation to harness and utilize design as a tool for positive social and environmental change. As such, my research with Kelly Murdoch–Kitt explores the benefit of introducing sustainability practices into the design classroom, while tackling the complexity of intercultural collaboration. The goal is to enhance awareness of the chosen topic by comparing and contrasting local and global needs through the exchange of ideas and discussion.
My experience team-teaching with Basma Hamdy, along with our shared interest in the transformative power of design, has led to research aimed at balancing collaborative practice with community engagement in order to serve the cultural context of the MENA region. Together, we have developed curriculum to engage students in community-based projects, along with tools to facilitate effective team-building based on design competencies such as the Design Powers System.