Theoretic and Pragmatic Nature of Product Design Curriculum: Using Product Design Curriculum in Japanese and Oversea Universities as an Example

The purpose of this study is to clarify the theoretical and pragmatic nature of the product design curriculums in different universities in different countries. Product design curriculums from 16 Japanese, 3 Korean, 3 Chinese, 1 Italian, 1 German and 1 Dutch universities were used as study samples. Based on the findings, it was understood that Japanese sample universities seemed to focus on the study of theoretical knowledge and specific skills through a broad spectrum of specialized subjects. In the European sample universities, the learning of theoretical knowledge and skills via integrative subjects seemed to be more pragmatic with concerns of how they can be applied in projects and industries. Besides, the emphasis on internship seemed to differ among the sample universities.