Introduction to Accessory Design: Shoes, Bags, and Belts Experiential Learning

This course is dedicated to accessory design. Students will be exposed to a variety of design materials. Emphasis will be placed on three-dimensional sketching and on creative detail design for footwear, handbags, small leather goods, gloves, and belts. The course includes an historical overview of personal accessories from ancient Egypt to the present, allowing the evaluation of different materials and styles. During this course students will also receive basic guidelines on hand sewing techniques, on the use of patterns for simple leather accessories, and an overview of materials.

This course includes experiential learning hours with our Community Engagement Member Institutions (CEMI). CEMI are dynamic learning environments created to foster learning through a structured interaction with the community. In addition to regular lecture hours, students will be involved in learning by doing through real projects and integration with the local population and territory in order to remove cultural and learning barriers as well as to develop a strong likelihood for success in life. The experiential learning hours are fully supervised by instructors who track students step by step during their learning experience, monitor and advise according to student needs, and support student initiative. This unique learning model allows students to benefit from an all-encompassing educational experience based on theory and practice in real enterprises, learning of comprehensive operational processes, problem-solving, leadership, and management.