Design for Physics

Design for Physics is a joint project between a physics department and a design institute, aiming at engaging students who feel uncomfortable with scientific disciplines in the exploration of science. Students at IED were asked to design, produce and test low-cost, easy-to-build apparatus for physics experiments, intended for use in schools. This paper presents the project as a case study, focusing on its structure, implementation, and outcomes. We report qualitative observations of the participating design students, acknowledging the exploratory nature of this investigation and the limitations due to participant selection based on availability rather than representativeness. We also gathered feedback from a group of physics teachers who tested the prototypes. The initiative, although limited in scope, highlights potential ways to bridge design and science education. The project was honoured with inclusion in ADI’s (Associazione per il Disegno Industriale) Design Index 2024, the esteemed annual collection of the best designs produced in Italy, and received the Excellence in Design in Lazio prize.