Abstract

Teaching of models for sustainable action must be present at any training stage. However, it is necessary to assess appropriate educational approaches for undergraduate students, since students can generate viable solutions, articulating agents of public and private sectors. The possibility of relating business, government, Non-governmental organization (NGOs), communities from university, allows students to develop systemic view of reality and possibilities to influence as future responsible citizens. In this article, study case is addressed to educational experience development in undergraduate Industrial Design students, developing experience based on the design of Do It Yourself (DIY) materials. The DIY phenomenon is based on the use of existing waste in the environment, where new materials are manufactured. In addition, the use of organic binders is suggested, which favors degradation and reduce health risks for users. The objective is to train students in the use of methodological, project and management tools, which allow them to take action that favor sustainability. The theme of DIY materials design is an opportunity, as it provides a broad and diverse point of view. Through knowledge transfer with emphasis on experimentation, exploration, and territory assessment, students become aware of reality. The methodology focuses on the design of new materials and sustainable processes, developing gradual and iterative phases, based on: 1. Exploration of context and opportunities; 2. Product briefing proposal (new material); 3. Conceptual design of new materials; 4. Definition of design components and manufacturing processes of new materials; 5. Production; 6. Application planning. Results are materials elaborated based on household waste, exemplified with prototypes made of organic husks, with findings associated with technique, compatibilities between types of waste, new materials characterized in the laboratory and application catalogs. Stimulation to exploration and curiosity is achieved in students to venture into this innovative theme that enhances social responsibility. Based on this experience, the conclusions in the educational field are positive, since students undergo a methodological process in which they address a topic with high potential to integrate improvements in waste management systems, opening new fields of development for industrial design based on the circular design.