The College of Art and Design recently held the fourth lecture in its 15th Bohai Wind Graduate Academic and Cultural Season in Conference Room 311, Building 12, on the Hexi Campus. Faculty member Wang Yanfei spoke on Beyond Disciplinary Boundaries: Using Design Thinking to Understand and Analyze Complex Problems. Gao Chunjing moderated the lecture, which was attended by the college's graduate students.

Drawing on experience leading field-based interdisciplinary work in Dabaichi Town and other projects, Wang explained how design thinking can be applied beyond conventional art and design contexts. Case studies linking design with local development helped translate interdisciplinary theory into practical examples.

During the discussion, students asked about selecting cross-disciplinary topics and identifying useful entry points for interdisciplinary research. Wang answered their questions and offered suggestions based on personal research experience.

New knowledge broadens perspectives, and sustained inquiry brings continued gains.

The event used the theme Interdisciplinary Knowledge for Science and Technology Innovation to provide a forum for faculty and graduate students. Participants said they planned to explore interdisciplinary research and apply multiple perspectives to innovation projects. The college will continue the academic and cultural season with additional activities supporting research and design practice.