Professional Development Sessions

Professional Development

MODA’s two-hour-long professional development sessions empower educators to see design as a tool for change. Educators explore how design mindsets can be used to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving, and address social justice issues. Our programs introduce the Liberatory Design framework, which emphasizes equity, inclusion, and empathy as essential components of the design process. By integrating these principles into their teaching, educators can inspire students to become innovators and advocates for positive social change.

View our available sessions below! If any interest you, reach out to education@museumofdesign.org.

  • In this professional development session, we will learn the core concepts of regenerative design, a forward-thinking approach that goes beyond traditional sustainability. Participants will gain an understanding of how regenerative design can reshape the future by integrating practices that prioritize human well-being, environmental health, and long-term resilience.

    During the workshop, we’ll take on a design challenge to create prototypes of objects that practice using zero waste and circular systems. 

    Along the way, educators will be equipped with tools to inspire their students to use problem-solving and critical thinking skills to contribute to a healthier, more equitable future for all.

  • In this professional development session, we will explore the transformative power of fiber arts and how they can illuminate critical environmental challenges and inspire meaningful change. Educators will review how works like Crochet Coral Reef and Tempestries translate scientific data into visual narratives, bridging the gap between art and science in innovative ways.

    During the workshop, participants will take on a hands-on design challenge, creating textile-based prototypes inspired by real-world environmental data. 

    Along the way, educators will gain tools to connect climate science and art in their teaching, encouraging students to think critically, explore creative problem-solving, and design solutions that contribute to a healthier, more sustainable planet.more sustainable planet.

  • In this professional development session, we will explore the importance of long-term thinking and decision-making in shaping a sustainable and equitable future. Participants will gain an understanding of the Seventh Generation Principle and how it can be applied in education to encourage responsible forward-thinking action that benefits future generations.


    During the workshop, we’ll take on a design challenge to create prototypes that balance environmental health, social equity, and economic resilience.


    Along the way, educators will gain tools to inspire their students to think critically about sustainability, use problem-solving skills, and design solutions that contribute to a sustainable world for future generations.

  • In this professional development session, we will discuss the vital role of ecosystems and biodiversity in sustaining life on Earth. We’ll also examine the impact of habitat loss on both wildlife and human communities. Participants will learn about the concept of urban wildlife corridors and their potential to promote sustainability in urban areas.

    During the workshop, we’ll have a design challenge to create prototypes that consider factors like habitat needs, environmental health, and urban planning.

    Throughout the session, educators will gain strategies to inspire their students to think critically about ecosystem restoration and conservation, helping them use design to support sustainability and contribute to the health of our planet.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Up to 10 participants: $200

    11 - 25 participants: $300

    26 - 40 participants: $400

    Once we’ve agreed upon a date and time for your session, we’ll send you an invoice. Payment must be made at least two weeks in advance of your scheduled workshop or upon receipt if scheduling within two weeks. Payment can be made by credit card, debit card, or check. Please email education@museumofdesign.org with any questions.


    Please note: registrations canceled within two weeks prior to the visit will result in a refund of 60%. No refunds will be available for cancellations less than two weeks prior to the date of the workshop. 

  • Professional Developments sessions are designed to last 1.5 - 2 hours. Most of our workshops can be held in-person at MODA or virtually. Each in person visit includes a viewing of the museum and a hands-on design activity. Timing is flexible.

    Workshops are primarily scheduled outside of public museum hours; visiting hours are 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM ET on Monday and Tuesday or 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM ET on Wednesday-Friday. 

    If you need to schedule a trip outside of our regular visiting hours or have any other questions regarding scheduling, email education@museumofdesign.org

  • All workshops are limited to one class at a time. No more than 40 participants in each session.

  • MODA’s Professional Development classes build on skills in creativity, problem-solving, and innovative thinking. For educators, our sessions provide practical tools to bring design thinking and sustainability into the classroom. For professionals, these classes offer unique perspectives on using design for positive social and environmental impact

  • We strive to make our museum accessible to all and are committed to making accommodations whenever possible to welcome our visitors with different abilities.  

    If there are participants in your group with physical or learning differences, please let us know how we can best accommodate them to ensure that they have the best experience possible. 

    Email education@museumofdesign.org or call 404.856.5979 to start the conversation. 

    The museum is entirely wheelchair accessible. 

    All videos include closed captions.

    We can provide visual descriptions and tactile experiences for visitors with low to no vision upon request.

    We welcome neurodiverse learners and strive to create the best experience possible for all visitors through conversations in advance of sessions.