Design for physics

Abstract This paper presents a project exploring the intersection of physics education and design, focusing on affordable, aesthetically pleasing tools for school laboratories. Initially aimed at providing practical resources for physics teachers, the project uncovered how ‘disciplinary aesthetics’ can enhance student engagement and deepen conceptual understanding, especially for those inclined towards the arts. In collaboration with the European Institute of Design (IED), product design students created tools for physics experiments, leading to improved comprehension of scientific principles. The tools were showcased at the 2023 European Maker Faire, drawing significant public interest. Feedback suggests that integrating aesthetics into science education fosters better engagement and learning. The tools are freely available under a Creative Commons license, with further research on the role of aesthetics in education encouraged. The project was selected for the ADI Design Index 2024, becoming a candidate for the ‘Compasso d’Oro’ prize, and received the Excellence in Design in Lazio Award from the ADI Lazio delegation.