Edinburgh Napier University

  The use of moving image within HE Product Design education is increasing. Here, film is commonly used as a tool for the presentation of concepts or finished objects, as an instructional tool, and in user observations and research. Iteration techniques that engage moving images to support sketching and reflection processes are starting to become more visible in the methodologies of product designers. As international collaboration becomes a key focus to many university development strategies, the increase in international student intake can create challenges when managing language, culture and different prior learning approaches. Nonetheless, research that addresses filmmaking as ideation and its impact on the integration of multicultural and/or international student cohorts is rare. This led to the research question: How can storytelling through moving image be used as an ideation methodology and as a platform to enhance the integration of international student cohorts within HE Product Design? To answer that question, this paper presents, analyses, and discusses a series of case studies that illustrate examples of the use of filmmaking workshops within HE Product Design. The studies were conducted over several years in collaboration with international exchange partners at universities in Scotland, Norway and China. A precedent that simple and accessible film editing software should be used to encourage clear and engaging storytelling, rather than style and effects, underpinned each workshop. The methodology of filmmaking proved to be a useful tool for breaking down cultural and language barriers. It also proved to be an effective tool for ideation processes.