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Methods Lab for Systemic Co-Design

KEY INFORMATION

Dates: 2027 – TBC.
Format & Duration: Three modules, with two live sessions, pre-recorded content and applied activities.
Delivery Mode: Online. 

Co-Design Maturity Model Level:Understand/Apply.


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About this training

Build your comprehensive toolkit of creative and participatory methods for systems-shifting co-design. Experiment with strategic problem-scoping, power-sharing techniques, and inclusive engagement through hands-on exploration with fellow change-makers.

Previously offered as ‘Principles into Practice: Methods for Systemic Design,’ we've reshaped this program based on participant feedback from our learning program survey and analysis of evolving needs in the field. The new Methods Lab format emphasises hands-on experimentation and collaborative practice.

Why do this course?

This program builds skills in practical ways to apply the core principles of systemic co-design practice. Participants gain increased innovation through hands-on exploration, enhanced collaboration with diverse partners, and deeper understanding of complex challenges through experimental learning.

This isn’t just learning about methods—it's experiencing them in action. Our methods lab approach means you’ll experiment with different design approaches, test techniques collaboratively, and learn through continuous cycles of experimentation and refinement.

What participants value most about this course: 

  • The community and peer learning environment

  • The mix of learning methods (videos, readings, reflection, live sessions)

  • Real-world examples and case studies from presenters

  • Practical tools to implement participatory practices

  • Hands-on experimentation and testing of methods to build skills 

  • The supportive and inclusive learning journey

How is it delivered?

The full program consists of seventeen weeks of learning, with three modules across five months. Participants can also register for one of the modules, with weekly content across six weeks. 

Our methods lab approach

This course operates as a dynamic, collaborative space where you'll:

  • Experiment with different design methodologies and tools

  • Test and refine approaches through iterative practice

  • Collaborate with diverse practitioners to create solutions

  • Share knowledge and learn from real-world implementation

  • Address complex challenges in innovative and effective ways

What you’ll gain:

  • Increased innovation through hands-on exploration of new methods 

  • Enhanced collaboration skills for working with diverse partners

  • Deeper understanding of complex challenges through experimental learning

  • Confidence to implement and advocate for participatory practices in your work

Each module includes:

  • Two live and interactive 2.5 hour online training sessions

  • Pre-recorded video content and resources for self-directed learning 

  • Hands-on practice project to apply and experiment with methods (additional live session in a small group)

  • Case studies showing real-world implementation

  • Thoughtfully designed individual activities and reflection exercises 

  • Summary slides and downloadable resources for each live and pre-recorded session

  • Searchable resource repository

  • Online forum to connect, share, ask and learn with peers and expert

Who is leading this?

This program is delivered by Dr Emma Blomkamp, who brings extensive experience in co-design facilitation and capability building, creating safe and engaging spaces for practitioner development. We also invite special guests with deep experience on relevant topics to deliver custom content and activities, especially for this cohort. This includes exclusive pre-recorded content from Seanna Davidson and Zenaida Beatson, with live facilitators to be confirmed. 

Is this course for me?

This course assumes a basic understanding and familiarity with design, innovation and systems change, but no specific experience is required.


This learning experience is ideal if you:

  • already understand the philosophy of co-design for social/systems innovation

  • want more tools and techniques to apply in your work

  • work in a public, social or community setting

  • can commit at least two hours per week during each module

  • can motivate yourself to keep up with content outside of live sessions

  • thrive in hands-on learning environments and want to experiment with methods through collaborative practice.

It is not for you if you:

  • are quite new to co-design (take our Fundamentals course first)

  • have a lot of co-design experience and are seeking more critical reflections on practice
    (consider coaching or mentoring instead)

  • only care about increasing profit or getting ahead in your career and aren’t interested in social outcomes

  • expect the course to make you an expert in co-design or systemic design

  • plan to watch recordings at a later date and not participate in live sessions.

Course overview & key dates (2025)

Module 1: Designing strategically to change systems

From 31 July to 4 September 2025

  • Understand the purpose-driven nature of co-design. 

  • Determine when co-design is appropriate and most effective.

  • Identify, explore and scope problems and opportunities.

  • Experiment with strategic design approaches to reframe complex problems.

  • Recognise complexity through systems mapping and visualisation.

Module 2: Learning from different kinds of wisdom

From 8 September to 31 October 2025

  • Embrace adaptive learning and deep listening. 

  • Explore an array of discovery and prototyping methods.

  • Prepare for research and testing.

  • Respect lived experience and Indigenous Knowledges.

  • Build your cultural competency and reflective practice.

Module 3: Rebalancing power in practice

From 3 November to 14 December 2025

  • Explore power and group dynamics. 

  • Practise power-sharing techniques.

  • Understand roles and relationships in co-design teams.

  • Identify, invite and engage participants from priority groups.

  • Prepare for collaboration and community ownership.

  • “This course is a stellar example of what putting co-design principles into practice looks like! If every design and research practitioner could take this course and apply the teachings to their work, I think we’d have a much better shot at improving and transforming capitalist systems. Absolutely take this course.”

    Risha Lee, Design Manager, Nava

  • “Principles into Practice is a mix of real-world know-how and solid theory, all shared in a way that invites you to truly engage and reflect, in a space where you can feel safe and supported.”

    Lucy Cummins, Service Designer, ABC

  • “A big highlight was watching how Emma held space for each session—calmly, confidently, and openly. I learnt what co-design actually is—not just in theory, but in practice. In future roles, I’ll be able to advocate more clearly for authentic co-design and challenge situations where something is labelled as co-design but doesn’t truly reflect its principles. I feel confident standing for an approach that is different from the traditional “designing for” model, which often reinforces power-over, corporate, and patriarchal dynamics. This programme has reinforced my commitment to working with people in a way that is genuine, inclusive, and empowering.”

    Briar Goldie, Designer, Impact Collective

  • “This course is deeply considered, and expertly blends the theoretical with the practical and experiential. It's an opportunity to slow down, reflect, think, and feel about co-design.”

    Nadia Bagley, Project Coordinator, Roses in the Ocean

  • “I absolutely loved the Principles into Practice course. The course content was so interesting and relevant to my work in the lived experience research space. I enjoyed how the course was set out—the self paced and live sessions—as it meant I had time to explore and digest the content, but equally the opportunity to ask questions and connect with the other course participants. I would highly recommend this course to anyone who is interested in learning more in the co-design space, working with community members in a safe and respectful way or just wanting to brush up on their research skills. I have already seen myself pushing for new ways to involve community members so they have more power / decision making capability.”

    Ruby Nelson-Will, Program Coordinator, Haven Home Safe


  • “Absolutely loved completing: Principles into Practice from New Know How! An incredible course run by Emma Blomkamp and friends, where I got to meet a bunch of wonderful like-minded, values-driven people from all different walks of life. It was great to learn, practice, and reflect together on our systemic design skills to build a more collaborative person-centred practice of our own. The platforms used enabled sharing throughout the course and a smorgasbord of great resources!”

    Jen Guha, Manager, System, Strategy and Innovation

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