Nora Dainton

Prof. Nora Dainton serves as Professor and Head of Studies at the Institute for Digital Construction within FHNW's School of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Geomatics. Since April 2025, she concurrently leads the Institute for Digital Construction FHNW ai and the MSc Virtual Design and Construction program, building on her decade-long FHNW career that began with lecturing roles in Industrial Design (2010-2020) and Quality Management (2019-2020).

Her academic credentials include:

• 2019-2020: CAS Leadership in Projects and Degree Programs at Universities, PH Zurich
• 2009-2011: Master of Arts in Design, Institute of Integrative Design HGK FHNW
• 2006-2008: SVEB (trainer with federal professional certificate)
• 2005: CPE (Cambridge Proficiency in English)
• 2001-2005: Graduate Designer FH, Aargau University of Applied Sciences, Industrial Design

Dainton's research pioneers educational transformation through collaborative process design, innovative teaching formats, and feedback systems integrated with critical thinking, systems thinking, and design thinking methodologies. Her work specifically targets assessment reform and student-centered learning environments in higher education contexts.

Analysis of her publications (2011-2021) reveals consistent focus on pedagogical innovation, particularly in reimagining assessment through game-based approaches and networking strategies. The works demonstrate strong interdisciplinary connections between design education, educational technology, and cognitive development frameworks.

Her scientific recognition includes:

• 2019: Teaching Award PHZH / CS Award for best Teaching (for "Assessment Rethought – Student Participation in the Development of Assessment Formats" with Roland Gautschi)

Prof. Dainton directs research initiatives like the PHZH Promotion Award-winning assessment project while maintaining active freelance design practice since 2006. Her teaching extends beyond FHNW to photography lecturing roles at ZHAW (2011-2018) and Migros Club School (2007-2016), balancing these professional commitments with motherhood responsibilities.