Foundation Degree in Graphic Design - ucw.ac.uk€¦ · Web viewWelcome. Welcome to the FdA Graphic Design Degree. This course is offered in partnership between Bath Spa University

FOUNDATION DEGREE IN GRAPHIC DESIGN

University Centre Weston

in partnership with Bath Spa University

STUDENT COURSE HANDBOOK

UCAS CODE. { W210 }

This handbook is published for students studying at UCW on the above programme and is available in a range of alternative formats on request.

Contents

1. Introduction......................................................................5

Welcome...........................................................................................5

Purpose of the Handbook..................................................................5

2. Programme Content...........................................................6

Programme Distinctiveness...............................................................6

3. Programme structure.........................................................9

4. Programme Aims.............................................................11

Programme Intended Learning Outcomes........................................11

Graduate Attributes.........................................................................15

5. Learning and Teaching Methods........................................18

Progressing onto Honours Degree...................................................20

6. Learning environment......................................................21

Work experience and placement opportunities................................21

Project/studio Work.........................................................................21

Tutor support..................................................................................21

7. How is Quality Assured?...................................................23

Quality monitoring and evaluation...................................................23

The role of the programme committee............................................23

External examiners.........................................................................24

8. Module Specifications.......................................................25

9. Appendices.....................................................................47

Appendix 1 – Assessment Criteria....................................................47

Appendix 2 - Marking Criteria..........................................................51

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1. Introduction

Welcome

Welcome to the FdA Graphic Design Degree. This course is offered in partnership between Bath Spa University and University Centre Weston (UCW). You are a registered student at Bath Spa University and at UCW.

You will be based at:

UCW‘s Loxton Campus in Weston-super-Mare. Here all the Art, Design and Music Foundation Degrees are situated in an excellent and spacious purpose built facility that has well equipped studios and workshops. You will also have the opportunity to apply for a ‘top up year’ either at UCW, Bath Spa University or Paintworks (Bristol) to convert your Foundation Degree to full BA (Hons) status.

Purpose of the Handbook

This handbook gives you essential background information that will be of help in your studies on the FdA Graphic Design programme. It provides links to the definitive data sources wherever possible. The handbook can be accessed via your Moodle account.

Please note that the electronic version will be kept up to date and you will be notified of any significant changes. If you have taken a hard copy of any information please remember to refer back to the electronic version to ensure that you are working with the most up to date information.

For module information please see the respective Module Handbook.

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2. Programme Content

Awarding institution Bath Spa University

Teaching institution University Centre Weston

Name of award(s) Graphic Design

Qualification (final award) FdA Graphic Design

Intermediate awards available CertHE Graphic Design

UCAS code W210

Relevant QAA Subject Benchmark Statements

Art and Design (2017)

Date of most recent approval May 2018

Date specification last updated May 2018

Programme Distinctiveness

The FdA in Graphic Design course focuses on three areas: Practical Design Skills, Design Studio and Design in Context.

These core aspects to the programme combine skills based learning with strong commercial links to the creative industries and local employers, creative thinking and contextual theory to underpin your design practice. The course aims to equip you with a relevant, thorough and up to date knowledge of the industry, to become a highly employable creative problem solver.

The central hub and ethos to the programme is the commercial ‘Design Studio’ set up, where each student has allocated workspaces and access to equipment. The studio emulates a professional working environment to Page of

promote a professional code of practice and prepare you for the rigours of employment. The course has been designed with employability in mind and has been written to enable you to engage with the issues and developments affecting the Graphic Design industry. Its vocational focus allows you to spend a significant amount of time engaged in work-based learning activities, in order to gain experience, manage a variety of projects and develop a range of skills.

Students will be encouraged to develop their own ‘creative voice’ through challenging self-negotiated projects, live briefs, practical workshops, seminars and visiting practitioner lectures designed to enhance creative, critical, technical and professional skills.

A vocational approach is underpinned by academic theory and industry standards that allow you to explore creative thinking and problem solving which is fundamental to successful and effective design solutions. The modules deliver a balance of theoretical and practical study to cover key aspects of the Graphic Design industry. Students will develop analytical, evaluative and reflective research skills, encouraging them to critically evaluate and contextualise their own work.

Figure 1: Framework for Higher Education Qualifications

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This course has been designed with employability in mind and has been written to enable students to engage with the issues and developments affecting the Graphic Design industry. Its vocational focus allows students to spend a significant amount of time within the workplace in order to gain experience, manage a variety of small projects and develop a range of skills. A vocational approach is underpinned by academic theory and industry standards which allow students to assess situations, make comparative judgments and suggest a range of alternative approaches. The modules have been designed to deliver a balance of theory and practical experience of key aspects of the Graphic Design industry.

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3. Programme structure

What will I study?

Each year you will study three modules over three terms, these will include:

FdA Graphic Design

Year one (full-time)

Level Code Title Credits

4 GD4501 Practical Design Skills 40

4 GD4502 Design Studio 40

4 GD4503 Graphic Design in Context 40

Year two (full-time)

Level Code Title Credits

5 GD5501 Professional and Practical Skills

40

5 GD5502 Design Studio 40

5 GD5503 Graphic Design in Context 2 40

Once students have completed the first semester they are immediately involved with employers through Design Studio: Creative Industries module. This module is made up of a series of live projects that provide the driving force behind the work based learning elements of the course. In this module, you are responsible for their own client liaison and project management with mentoring from course staff.

Working within a commercial ‘Design Studio’ model, exposes you to a professional working environment from day one and ensures that you are developing a range of employability skills needed for industry.

All HE programmes at UCW are delivered as a collection of modules, which build on each other to form a complete programme of study. Each module carries a credit rating, defining how much study time it takes to complete.

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Notionally, 1 credit equates to 10 hours study time (so 10 credits = 100 study hours). “Study hours” includes lectures, seminars, tutorials, group work, independent study and research – in fact, any time that contributes to your learning on the module.

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4. Programme Aims

1. Enable the development of skills and knowledge applicable to the creative industries workplace.

2. Foster understanding of key concepts, principles and problems arising in both the employment and creative context.

3. Enable the development of a range of subject specific and transferable skills necessary to flourish within the creative or other industry sectors.

4. Provide opportunities to evaluate the appropriateness of different approaches to solving design related problems.

5. Support the development of the qualities necessary for employment and professional practice in situations requiring you to exercise responsibility and decision-making.

6. Enable progression onto further study or employment.

Programme Intended Learning Outcomes

A Subject-Specific Skills and Knowledge

Programme Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

On Achieving Level 5


A1

Underpin your practical graphic design practice, through the selection of appropriate design theory and principles

Utilise a range of graphic design principles and theories in your practice

A2

Contextualise your practice through the selection from a range of historical aspects of art and design movements

Relate given historical aspects of art and design movements and to your design practice

A Use appropriately selected Use given creative industry

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3 creative industries regulatory and legislative frameworks in your practical design work

regulatory and legislative frameworks in the creation of design work

A4

Create practical design responses by selecting developing and applying appropriate process and technique skills, using software and materials

Create practical work informed by experimentation with software applications, materials, processes and techniques

A5

Develop a range of ideas and creative solutions to contemporary design problems, utilising a range of research methods

Create solutions to design problems, using appropriate methods and idea development

A6

Apply knowledge of the variety of roles needed to be a professional graphic designer dealing with clients.

Demonstrate awareness of the role of the graphic designer in society.

A7

Create design solutions by selecting and combining a variety of visual design methods and styles

Investigate and utilise a number of visual design methods to create finished work

B Cognitive and Intellectual Skills



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B1

Analyse a range of past and present art and design practices to contextualise your own work.

Understand the influence of a variety of past and present art and design practices, through making comparisons

B2

Communicate the application of ideas, principles and theories for a variety of audiences in both visual and written form.

Communicate ideas, principles, theories effectively in written and visual form

B3

Apply critical judgement to your own work and that of others.

Reflect on and analyse your own work and that of others.

B4

Utilise a range of professional practice methods necessary to work with clients

Reflect on, evaluate your own practice through engaging with appropriate professional

C Skills for Life and Work




C1

Autonomous learning2 (including time management) as would be

Autonomous learning2 (including time management) as would be

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necessary for employment requiring the exercise of personal responsibility and decision-making such that significant responsibility within organisations could be assumed.

necessary for employment requiring the exercise of some personal responsibility

C2

Team work as would be necessary for employment requiring the exercise of personal responsibility and decision-making for effective work with others such that significant responsibility within organisations could be assumed

Team work as would be necessary for employment requiring the exercise of some personal responsibility for effective work with others

C3

Communication skills commensurate with the effective communication of information, arguments and analysis in a variety of forms to specialist and non-specialist audiences in which key techniques of the discipline are deployed effectively

Communication skills that demonstrate an ability to communicate outcomes accurately and reliably, and with structured and coherent arguments

C4

IT skills and digital Literacy that demonstrate the development of existing skills and the acquisition of new competences

IT skills and digital literacy that provide a platform from which further training can be undertaken to enable development of new skills within a structured and managed environment

2 i.e. the ability to review, direct and manage one’s own workload

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Graduate Attributes

Bath Spa Graduates… In Graphic Design, we enable this through…

1 Will be employable: equipped with the skills necessary to flourish in the global workplace, able to work in and lead teams

Embedding employability and entrepreneurship within the programme and modules. Students will receive opportunities to work on real or simulated briefs, preparing them for the workplace.

2 Will be able to understand and manage complexity, diversity and change

A curriculum that encompasses a wide range of subjects within the graphic design discipline, including developments at the forefront of the industry. Modules addressing context of design will highlight how graphic design has changed and how it might change in the future.

3 Will be creative: able to innovate and to solve problems by working across disciplines as professional or artistic practitioners

The fact that programme is inherently creative and will encourage students to work with others both within and outside of their expertise/discipline to achieve elegant solutions to briefs.

4 Will be digitally literate: able to work at the interface of creativity and technology

Digital literacy (as an essential component to the graphic design) embedded within the programme. Students will receive instruction in the use of graphic design technology and software.

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5 Will be internationally networked: either by studying abroad for part of the their programme, or studying alongside students from overseas

Collaboration will be encouraged and supported with industry-based work and projects. Students will engage with concepts and influences from across the international graphic design discipline.

6 Will be creative thinkers, doers and makers

Encouraging engagement with projects and tasks that have tangible creative outcomes. As you will foster and develop your abilities as creative thinkers, doers and makers throughout the programme.

7 Will be critical thinkers: able to express their ideas in written and oral form, and possessing information literacy

Projects which are led and presented by students Additionally, through and the opportunity to display and present work at national conferences.

8 Will be ethically aware: prepared for citizenship in a local, national and global context

Ethics in graphic design is embedded within the programme. Students will engage with a wide range of organisations and individuals in the professional practice elements of the programme.

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5. Learning and Teaching MethodsUCW has a Learning and Teaching Strategy for Higher Education, which underpins our approach.

We intend that the learning programme should be both stimulating and demanding, and should lead you through progressive stages of development, towards increasingly complex and open-ended tasks, increasingly sophisticated application of intellectual/conceptual and personal (transferable) skills, and increasingly independent study.

The course will cover a range of approaches to teaching and learning including:

Lectures and seminars Studio workshops Presentations and critiques Historical and contextual lectures 1:1 tutoring and guidance Cultural visits Work-based learning E-learning Practical Project work Visiting speakers from the creative industries

Will I be able to gain practical experience?

Work based learning is central to the programme and gives you the opportunity to reflect on your experiences and develop a portfolio of work and skills supporting your future career development. Our ‘Design Studio’ set-up provides an introduction to the working studio culture and will give you an insight into the day-to-day running of a commercial studio. You will work on live projects, working to briefs set in collaboration with various industries, so that you gain a real understanding of commercial design.

If you are interested in developing skills in a variety of design disciplines and applying these skills within the creative industries as well as contextualising your creativity in the light of current theories and developments in design, then this course will provide the appropriate pathway.

If you enjoy creative thinking, problem solving, working as part of a team with like minded creatives this course will provide you with confidence and

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ability enable you to increase your employment potential within the creative industries or access continuing higher education.

If you want to gain employment within the creative industries then this course will provide you with relevant entrepreneurial, practical skills and industry knowledge to enable you to successfully work in the field of Graphic Design.

What career opportunities are open to me if I study a Foundation Degree in Graphic Design?

Graduates career opportunities include: Graphic Designer Art Director Account/Project Management Digital Artworker Freelance Designer Teacher training Editorial Designer Web Designer Illustrator Corporate/Brand Designer Digital Artworker Progression to the final year of BA (Hons) in ‘Graphic Communication’ at Bath Spa

University, UCW’s BA (Hons) Graphic Design or alternatively BA (Hons) Creative Media Practice at Paintworks (Bristol)

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Progressing onto Honours Degree

You can ‘top-up’ your FdA degree to a BA (Honours) degree by an additional year of study.

To be eligible for progression you must have gained 240 credits, 120 credits at Level 4 and 120 credits at Level 5. The deadline for applications is usually on or before 1st May in the final year of Foundation Degree studies.

Your tutor will arrange a meeting with the Course Leader at UCW to discuss the modules on offer on the top-up degree and answer any questions that you may have. You are also welcome to visit the campus and meet with staff and students.

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6. Learning environment Learning is encouraged and supported through participation in a wide variety of activities including lectures, seminars, workshops, visits and work based learning. Each module has 4 hours formal contact per week, but you should allow yourself an additional 10 hours each week for personal study (student-centred learning). During your self-directed study time you can use your studio space and access the workshops.

Work experience and placement opportunities

You will develop your own professional identity, which will culminate in a professional business portfolio. It will include CV’s, letterheads and develop a self-promotional creative ‘mailer’. You will then use this to engage professionally researched agencies of your choice to gain placements or internships in a creative industries environment.

You will also engage with live projects that simulate working across a diverse section of external clients.

Project/studio Work

Project work emphasises the necessity for independent research, the acquisition of source material and the application of knowledge of skills you have learnt during the programme, which you can then incorporate within your own self-directed enquiry. Projects to enable you to develop individual solutions to creative problems and represent them coherently.

There is an assessment at the end of each module. Work is graded using the Grade Related Criteria (appendix) and all work is given equal attention.

In Year One work is assessed by the module coordinators and other members of staff and will be internally verified.

In Year Two work is assessed by the module coordinator and other members of staff and will be internally verified and eternally verified by an examiner who moderates the internal marks.

Tutor support

While studying at UCW on this Foundation Degree you will have:

Extensive personal support from a friendly and caring staff. Open door policy.

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A good practical and theoretical education. Availability of careers advice and support. Purpose built studio and workshop facilities. Excellent student support services. Highly qualified, motivated staff and visiting lecturers.

How we support you

One to one tutorials Group Tutorials Seminars Lectures Specialist technical support Materials posted on Minerva Lectures by visiting professionals and practitioners

You are allocated a member of staff as your Personal Tutor and this is your first port of call if you need any help or advice on course matters. If you need any advice on anything else (personal or financial matters, for example) your Personal Tutor can recommend the right person on campus to approach, including the HE Academic Registry Team (HEART) who can help you with any problems including health, employment, and much more.

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7. How is Quality Assured?

Quality monitoring and evaluation

The programme you are studying was approved by Bath Spa University. As part of the approval process it was assured that

the content of the programme met national benchmark requirements; the programme met any professional/statutory body requirements; and the proposal met other internal quality criteria covering a range of issues such as

admissions policy, teaching, learning and assessment strategy and student support mechanisms.

This is done through a process of programme approval, which involves consulting academic experts including some subject specialists from other institutions.

How we monitor the quality of this programme

The quality of this programme is monitored each year through evaluating:

External examiner reports (considering quality and standards); Statistical information (considering issues such as the pass rate); Student feedback.

Drawing on this and other information programme teams undertake annual monitoring. The process is monitored by the University's Quality and Standards Committee.

Once every six years an in-depth review of the whole area is undertaken by a panel that includes at least two external subject specialists. The panel considers documents, looks at student work, speaks to current and former students and speaks to staff before drawing its conclusions. The result is a report highlighting good practice and identifying areas where action is needed.

The role of the programme committee

The course has a programme committee comprising all relevant teaching staff, student representatives and others who make a contribution towards the effective operation of the programme (e.g. library/technician staff). The committee has responsibilities for the quality of the programme. The programme committee plays a critical role in the colleges quality assurance procedures.

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External examiners

The standard of this programme is monitored by at least one external examiner. External examiners have two primary responsibilities:

To ensure the standard of the programme; To ensure that justice is done to individual students.

Name Role in institution Name of institution

Ian Mitchell Programme Leader, Graphic Design and Illustration

Liverpool John Moores University

External references

The following methods are used for gaining the views of other interested parties:

Feedback from former students; Employers

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8. Module Specifications

1 Module code GD4501

2 Module title Practical Design Skills

3 Subject field Graphic Design

4 Pathway(s) FdA Graphic Design

5 Level 4

6 UK credits 40

7 ECTS credits 20

8 Core or Required or Optional Core

9 Acceptable for N/A

10

Excluded combinations N/A

11

Pre-requisite or co-requisite N/A

12

Class contact time: total hours Total Hours: 114

13

Independent study time: total hours Total Hours: 286

14

Semester(s) of delivery Delivery over full year

15

Main campus location Loxton Campus

16

Module co-ordinator Tod Bissett

17

Additional costs involved Between £30-50

18

Brief description and aims of module

This module focuses on areas of digital media that support the wider context of design disciplines such as editorial, typography, communication, brand and identity design. You will have the opportunity to gain a technical grounding in applying digital media using Adobe Creative Suite to your creative methodologies, providing the platform to develop other fundamental practical skills in communication, presentation and time management to strengthen your position of working in the creative industries.

Vocationally diverse, commercially pertinent briefs will be backed up with research and relevant contextual investigation presented in a range of formats. Design development work from initial concept through to final outcomes will give appropriate challenges and direction to inform your creative visual storytelling. A strong emphasis is placed on the design journey and how you document and evaluate this process.

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You will be asked to present a combination of high quality colour prints professionally executed for display and digital presentations, demonstrating knowledge of software applications and design ability.

The module aims to: Build on your practical and theoretical skills Extend your understanding of the fundamentals of graphic design through digital media Develop personal, self-directional practical work and skills Enable evaluation, reflection and analysis of technical and creative processes Utilise and further develop your transferable skills to equip you for future challenges

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Outline syllabus

The programme is delivered through practical workshops and lectures, supported by individual, group and peer feedback. The module will include technical and digital skills, such as editorial design, digital illustration and image manipulation.

Indicative areas of study include: Subject specific studio skills in visualisation and conceptualisation. The design journey

is creatively recorded through a series of sketchbook and development journals underpinned by analytical and evaluative annotation

The fundamentals of typography are explore through a combination of short and more extensive projects. Editorial design is introduced through topics such as; grids, page composition and typographic component.

Digital illustration techniques support a range of studio, live and collaborative projects in disciplines such as; branding, publication design and advertising.

Creative presentation techniques, group critiques and peer evaluation support a conceptual thinking process.

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Teaching and learning activities

The module is delivered through a variety of methods, including:

Lectures/Demonstrations Taught workshops Practical activities including self-directed study Group discussions/critiques One to one tuition Individual and group presentations E-learning Project briefings Day projects

2 Intended learning outcomes How

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1 By successful completion of the module, you will be able to demonstrate:

1. A practical knowledge of print and screen based design techniques2. An understanding and competence using specialist software3. Knowledge and understanding of all stages of the design process4. Conversance with contextual reference points

assessed

S1 F1 F2 F3

S1 F1 F2

S2 F1 F2

S2 F1 F3

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Assessment and feedback

Formative exercises and tasks:

F1. Development work and research

F2. Digital and print presentations

F3. Design Outcomes

Summative assessments:

S1. Practical Outcomes (equivalent to 6000 words)

S2. Supporting material and development/ sketchbook work (equivalent to 2000 words)

Weighting%

70%

30%

23

Learning resources

University Library print, electronic resources and Minerva:

Roberts, Lucienne / Thrift, Julia. (2005) The Designer & The Grid, Rotovision

Ollins, Wally. (2004) On Brand, Thames & Hudson.

Tufte, Edward. (2001) The visual Display of Quantitative Information, Graphics Press USA.

Tufte, Edward (1990). Envisioning Information, Graphics Press USA

McCandless, David (2014), Knowledge is Beautiful, William Collins.

www.digitalthread.com

thecoolhunter.net

www.septemberindustry.co.uk

www.graphic-exchange.com

www.jannohahn.nl

www.456bereastreet.com

www.tdc.org

www.thedrum.co.uk

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http://www.thedrum.co.uk/

http://www.tdc.org/

http://www.456bereastreet.com/

http://www.jannohahn.nl/

http://www.graphic-exchange.com/

http://www.septemberindustry.co.uk/

http://www.digitalthread.com/

www.edwardtufte.com/

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Preparatory work

Subject Specific PreparationYou should develop your skills through continual practice outside of scheduled teaching hours. You also should familiarise with the key texts and the learning resources provided.

Study Skills Support Participation in the HE.LP programme workshops, as detailed below, will help in the preparation for this module.

Attend workshops on the topics of: Time Management: activities to practice planning projects against deadlines,

prioritizing tasks producing a project timeline. Reading and Notetaking: exercises to encourage organisation and recording of key

information, how to engage in seminars.

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http://www.edwardtufte.com/


2 Module title Design Studio



5 Level 4

6 UK credits 40

7 ECTS credits 20



10


11


12


13


14


15


16

Module co-ordinator Victoria Norcross

17

Additional costs involved None

18


This module provides an introduction to the ‘design studio’ culture offering you an insight in to the day to day running of a commercial studio. ‘The Design Studio’ constitutes the central hub for the delivery of this module, offering a realistic, live environment.

You will have the opportunity to generate work from concept stage through to implementation and be introduced to a range of reproduction processes. Creative thinking and the design development journey as a process of problem solving and conceptualising creative responses, are core to the delivery of this module.

Consideration of the ethical and social issues surrounding contemporary design practice are essential to the module. You will have the opportunity develop a professional approach to understanding and negotiating clients’ requirements and the constraints of commercial briefs. The module fosters the development of good time management skills and professional practice in the realisation of design solutions.

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The module aims to: Develop your professional practice within a real-world context Develop client-focussed negotiation and consultation skills Emphasise the importance of time-management skills Consider the ethical and social impact of contemporary design practice

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Outline syllabus

The module explores creative digital skills, such as editorial design and illustration. Print and image making techniques, constructional and display design;

You will have the opportunity to develop your subject specific studio skills in visualisation and conceptualisation. The design journey will be creatively recorded through a series of sketchbook and development journals underpinned by analytical and evaluative annotation

Live projects briefed by 'clients' will introduce you to a wide range of diverse subject themes.

The projects will outline professional and commercial working practices, ensuring you are familiar with the design process from pitch to presentation

Exploration and experimentation across disciplines will lead to outcomes within; branding, publication design, print and image making, constructional and display design

Creative presentation techniques, peer evaluation and group critiques will support your conceptual thought process to encourage unconventional design responses

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The programme is delivered through practical workshops and lectures, supported by individual, group and peer feedback. Visiting practitioners will give presentations outlining their specialist areas and identifying the skills required for professional practice. Examples of good practice and visits will enable students to interpret ideas and situations both in the wider context of employment and in academic understanding, providing opportunities for potential professional or industrial links.

Live briefs will be set in collaboration with local and national industries in order to equip students with the skills required for current design practice. You will work independently and in teams on conceptual thinking exercises to understand different approaches to tackling and responding to a range of subject matter.

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Intended learning outcomes

By successful completion of the module, you will be able to demonstrate:

1. The ability to interpret ideas and situations in the wider context of employment and in academia

How assessed

F2 F3 S1 S2

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2. An understanding of contemporary graphic design and associated work practice with industry

3. An understanding of specialist software4. Effectiveness in responding to studio and live briefs to produce creative

designs 5. The skills required to communicate effectively in a clear and

appropriate manner to clients, colleagues and teaching staff

F1 F2 S1

F2 F3 S1

F1 F3 S1 S2

F1 F2 S2

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F3. Design Outcomes


S1. Practical Outcomes (equivalent to 6000 words)

S2. Research and Development to include a 1000 word learning log (equivalent to 2000 words)

Weighting%

70%

30%

23

Learning resources

University Library print, electronic resources and Minerva

Olle, Eksell (2007). Swedish Graphic Designer, PIE Books.

Poyner, Rick (2004). Yelavich, Susan. Profile: Pentagram Design, Phaidon Press Ltd.

Philip B. Meggs (2005), Alston W. Purvis. Meggs’ History of Graphic

Design. Wiley.

De Bono, Edward. (2009) Lateral Thinking. A textbook of Creativity. Penguin.

Crow, David. (2002) Looking Closer : Bk 4: Critical Writings on

Graphic Design. Allworth Press.

Key web-based and electronic resources


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www.thecoolhunter.net



www.jannohahn.nl


www.tdc.org

www.thedrum.co.uk

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Preparatory work

You should develop your skills through continual practice outside of schedule teaching hours. You also should familiarise with the key texts and the learning resources provided.

Carrying out initial research into facets of the graphic design industry will inform your study on this module.


Attend workshops on the topics of: Time Management: activities to practice planning projects against deadlines,

prioritizing tasks producing a project timeline. Reading and Notetaking: exercises to encourage organisation and recording of key


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http://www.tdc.org/






2 Module title Graphic Design in Context



5 Level 4

6 UK credits 40

7 ECTS credits 20



10


11


12


13


14


15


16

Module co-ordinator Kari Nygard

17


18


This module examines key and significant theories and issues from the 20th century to the present day that will enable you to appreciate the context of your design activity. Through visual meaning and analysis, you will have the opportunity to examine the development of new technologies and their relationship with contemporary design practice looking specifically at research methodologies. An emphasis is placed on the aesthetic, moral and social contexts that are of importance to today’s designers.

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Outline syllabus

The module will focus on the ways in which cultural images are interpreted.

To do this the extent to which we are motivated by biological desiresthat ultimately result in the need to consume and to create the meanings by which we live will be explored.

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The development of research and study skills will be supported.

This research material will be visual and textual, extracted from books and journals, as well as slides, videos and the internet.

Indicative topics of study include:

Functions of a Graphic Designer. Semiotics and Visual Signifiers. Gender Representation Ideology

20


The module is delivered through lectures followed by discussions, allowing issues to be raised and debated. The combination of practical work, lectures, seminars and formal presentations and discussions will enable you to develop a range of transferable skills demonstrating that you can effectively work as an individual or as part of a team on collaborative projects. Time Management and organisational skills are critical.

Supplied reading will develop cognitive, reflective and critical skills, whilst workshops sessions will allow the student to use the research gained to support the development of studio based design work. You will have the opportunity to demonstrate your contextual knowledge and ability to analyse through documenting research gained from studying industrial and professional issues.

Issues raised by illustrated slide lectures will be further explored through follow up workshops/demonstrations based on information and research gained.

These may include video viewings, group seminars/discussions both staff and student led, set tasks, one to ones, tutorials and self-directed study supported by E-learning. Lectures and seminars Discussions and group work Demonstrations Individual research Presentations

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1. Knowledge of research methods and techniques using paper based materials and electronic sources

2. An understanding of a range of influences that have informed current social and creative design attitudes and practice

3. The ability to research, structure and develop an argument 4. Effective oral and written presentation skills that engage an audience

5. An awareness and knowledge of the different processes and practices

How assessed

F1 F2 S1 S2 S3

F1 F2 S1 S2

F1 F2 S1 S3

F3 S1 S2 S3

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of graphic communication F2 F3 S1 S3

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F1. Rough drafts

F2. Presentations

F3. Mini assignments


S1. Essay (4000 words)

S2. Reflective journal (equivalent to 2000 words)

S3. Presentation with supporting documentation (equivalent to 2000 words)

Weighting%

50%

25%

25%

23

Learning resources


Barnard, Malcom (2005) Graphic Design as Communication, Routledge.

Ewen, Stewart (2001) Captains of Consciousness, Basic Books.

Williamson, Judith (2010) Decoding Advertising Imagery, Marian Boyars

Packard, Vance (2007) The Hidden Persuaders, I.G Publishing

Cartwright, Lisa and Marita, Sturken (2007) Practices of Looking, I.G Publishing.


www.richardhollis.com




www.jannohahn.nl

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http://www.thecoolhunter.net/

http://www.richardhollis.com/



www.tdc.org

www.thedrum.co.uk

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Preparatory work

Subject Specific Preparation Students are encouraged to maintain their skills with continual practice outside of the formal teaching situation. It is the responsibility of students to ensure that they are adequately prepared for all sessions.

Study Skills Support Participation in the HE.LP programme workshops, as detailed below, will help in the preparation for this module. Attend workshops on the topics below:-

Research Methods: activities designed to develop research plans and ideas into ‘live’ projects. Report writing exercises and documentation styles.

Referencing, using citations, avoiding plagiarism

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http://www.tdc.org/



2 Module title Professional & Practical Skills



5 Level 5

6 UK credits 40

7 ECTS credits 20



10


11


12

Class contact time: total hours Total Hours:114

13


14


15


16

Module co-ordinator Sally Marks

17


18


This module is designed to provide a framework for vocationally focused project work, appropriate to specialist pathways within graphic design. It seeks to enhance, improve and build on practical skills developed and give you the opportunity to effectively present yourselves and your design work.

Live projects, and work-based learning in the ‘design studio’ and/or work placement will offer an opportunity to develop a realistic industry insight and enable you to take ownership of your employment potential. You are encouraged to develop entrepreneurial skills in sourcing external project work, both independently and in teams. Workshops and seminars will focus on professional presentation including portfolio preparation, interview techniques and communication skills.

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Outline syllabus

Delivered in conjunction with local employers and practicing designers, work based projects will provide you with a pertinent set of technical, vocational and theoretical skills. You are responsible for liaising with designers/companies in order to provide individual specific work based learning. Work placements must be approved by your tutor

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beforehand.

You will be encouraged to seek a personal and unique approach to producing a professional self-promotional portfolio. This may include a range of digital, paper based and written presentation techniques and opportunities to demonstrate sophisticated delivery of the skills learned.

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Teaching and learning activities Lectures, seminars, case studies and work based learning Guidance and progress reviews through tutorial contact E-Learning Workshops Practical activities including self directed study Group discussions/critiques Formal presentations and interview practice sessions

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By successful completion of the module, you will be able to demonstrate:1. The ability to plan and organise your work load demonstrating a

methodical approach to project management2. Creative application of professional and practical skills including self-

promotion and branding3. Reflection on, and evaluation of, your own progress and ability in

relation to contemporary practice4. Knowledge and understanding of professional standards in the

effective presentation of graphic design work

How assessed

F1 S1 S2

F1 F2 F3 S1 S2

F1 F3 S1 S2

F2 F3 S1 S2

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F1. Development work/research


F3. Design Outcomes


S1. Practical Outcomes with supporting development work (equivalent to 7000 words)

S2. Self-promotional portfolio with creative journal (equivalent to 3000 words)

Weighting%

70%

30%

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Learning resources

University Library print, electronic resources and Minerva: Key texts

Berger, Josh (2005) 100 Habits of Successful Graphic Designers, Rockport.Page of

Stanic, Elena and Corina, Lipavsky (2010) Atlas of Graphic Designers, Rockport

Opara, Eddie and Cantwell, John (2013) Best Practices for Graphic Designers, Color Works: Right Ways of Applying Color in Branding, Wayfinding, Information Design, Digital Environments and Pretty Much Everywhere Else, Rockport.

Taute, Michelle and Keller, Maura (2011) Design Matters an Essential Primer for Todays Designer, Rockport.





www.chipshopawards.com

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Preparatory work

Subject Specific Preparation You should develop your skills through continual practice outside of schedule teaching hours. You also should familiarise with the key texts and the learning resources provided.

Study Skills Support Participation in the HE.LP programme workshops, as detailed below, will help in the preparation for this module. Attend workshops on the topics of: Time Management. Working with others: exercises around managing teams, understanding groups and

problem solving.

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http://www.chipshopawards.com/






2 Module title Design Studio



5 Level 5

6 UK credits 40

7 ECTS credits 20



10


11


12


13


14


15


16

Module co-ordinator Sally Marks

17


18


This module focuses on developing and implementing the creative skills and approaches to ideas generation previously learned. In the past students have entered both national and international design competitions and education programmes. The module seeks to enable you to produce work in response to live briefs, set by well-established and respected external organisations. In the past, this has included, for example: D&AD, RSA and ISTD.

Producing work to the competition brief criteria will encourage you to develop a unique and individual approach to conceptualisation, encouraging highly innovative and original responses and understanding the processes of creative solutions above functionality. You will need to work to stringent deadlines and rigorous brief specifications and will need to take responsibility for your own time management.

This module culminates in a self-directed project bringing together and showcasing all the skills acquired throughout previous modules. You are expected to engage in thorough and in-depth research and your outcomes should show consideration of the implications of

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ethics and sustainability. From this, you will have the opportunity to develop and realise a range of sophisticated design responses, which will conclude in an exhibition of your work celebrating success on the course.

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Outline syllabus

The module includes technical digital techniques and processes, such as desktop publishing, digital illustration and photo manipulation. In addition, subject specific studio skills will be developed in visualisation and conceptualisation. You will have the opportunity to utilise skills gained and focus on a range of preferred specialist disciplines.

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Teaching and learning activities will include:

Practical activities with an emphasis on self-directed study Group discussions/critiques One to one feedback Presentation of practical outcomes Individual tutorials E-learning

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1. Ability to apply practical, technical and conceptual skills, presenting your work effectively with an individual and creative approach

2. Effective development and realisation of creative design solutions3. Independent working with limited guidance, demonstrating good time

and project management abilities4. Reflective and evaluative approach in relation to creative solutions5. Ability to apply initiative and autonomy of learning, through a variety of

independently instigated activities and tasks

How assessed

F1 F3 S1

F1 F2 S1 S2

F1 F2 S2

F2 F3 S1 S2

F1 F2 S2

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F3. Design Outcomes


Illustrative example, which should be deleted:

S1. Practical Outcomes with Display and Presentation (equivalent to 5000 words)

S2. Supporting material and development/sketchbook work (equivalent to 3000 words)

Weighting%

70%

30%

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23

Learning resources


Welsh, Craig (2013) Design: Portfolio: Self Promotion At Its Best, Rockport.

Manzini, Ezio and Coad Rachel (2015), Design, When Everybody Designs: An Introduction to Design for Social Innovation (Design Thinking, Design Theory). MIT Press

Johnson, Michael (2016), Branding: In Five and a Half Steps Thames and Hudson

Hyndman, Sarah (2016), Why Fonts Matter, Virgin

www.newton.sunderland.ac.uk

www.lovelyasatree.com

www.worldchanging.com

www.metgroup.com


thecoolhunter.net


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Preparatory work

Subject Specific Preparation You should develop your skills through continual practice outside of schedule teaching hours. You also should familiarise with the key texts and the learning resources provided.


Attend workshops on the topics of:

Time Management: activities to practice planning projects against deadlines, prioritizing tasks producing a project timeline.

Reading and Notetaking: exercises to encourage organisation and recording of key


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2 Module title Graphic Design in Context 2



5 Level 5

6 UK credits 40

7 ECTS credits 20



10


11


12


13


14


15


16

Module co-ordinator Kari Nygard

17


18


This module further develops an awareness of the range of practice in contemporary graphic design.

It addresses the development of cognitive abilities in relation to aesthetic moral and social contexts and its importance to today’s graphic designers and typographers.

The module supports you in mapping your future professional and personal development and/or gaining education qualifications to Honours degree level and above.

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Outline syllabus

The module provides an in depth overview of visual culture history that will contribute to a greater understanding of the field of Graphic Design and how this relates to your own contemporary practice.

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The module’s emphasis is on research and study skills and upon students acquiring source material and knowledge that can produce the context for further development in individual studio practice.

Through a program of seminars and one-to-one tutorials you will be assisted and guided towards:

Identifying a suitable topic for research. The correct approach to identifying research material and methods of analysis. Critical evaluation of your own practice. Identifying issues of ethics and sustainability, that may impact on your practice.

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The module will be delivered via a combination of the following:

Presentations and critiques. Illustrated slide lectures will be further explored through follow up

workshops/demonstrations based on information and research gained. There will also be video viewings, group seminars/discussions both staff and student

led, set tasks, one to ones, tutorials and self directed study. Group tutorials Individual tutorials E- Learning

Further on in the module you will be asked to define an appropriate subject for research that helps to place your own practice and skills within an historical and contemporary context. Your research material should be visual and textual, extracted from books and journals, as well as slides, videos and the internet.

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1. Detailed knowledge of a range of influences that have informed current social and creative design practice

2. Application of effective research methodologies using a variety of sources

3. Critical understanding of the design process and the context in which it is undertaken

4. Autonomy in planning and executing a portfolio of self-directed work.

How assessed

F1/F2/S2/S3

F1/F2/S2/S3

F2/F3/S1/S3

F1/F3/S1/S2

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F1. Rough drafts

F2. Presentations

F3. Mini assignments

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S1. Synoptic report 2000 words with 5 Minute Pitch Presentation (equivalent to 1000 words)

S2. 3000 Word Essay

S3. Supporting material in the form of research notes (equivalent to 3000 words)

Weighting%

30%

40%

30%

23

Learning resources


Barnard, Malcom (2005) Graphic Design as Communication, Routledge.

Ewen, Stewart (2001) Captains of Consciousness, Basic Books.

Williamson, Judith (2010) Decoding Advertising Imagery, Marian Boyars

Packard, Vance (2007) The Hidden Persuaders, I.G Publishing

Cartwright, Lisa and Marita, Sturken (2007) Practices of Looking, I.G Publishing.


www.richardhollis.com




www.jannohahn.nl


www.tdc.org

www.thedrum.co.uk

www.edwardtufte.com/

www.ted.com

www.behance.net

www.carbonmade.com

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http://www.carbonmade.com/

http://www.behance.net/

http://www.ted.com/

http://www.edwardtufte.com/


http://www.tdc.org/






http://www.richardhollis.com/


24

Preparatory work

Subject Specific Preparation Students are encouraged to maintain their skills with continual practice outside of the formal teaching situation. It is the responsibility of students to ensure that they are adequately prepared for all sessions.

Study Skills Support Participation in the HE.LP programme workshops, as detailed below, will help in the preparation for this module. Attend workshops on the topics below:-

Research Methods: activities designed to develop research plans and ideas into ‘live’ projects. Report writing exercises and documentation styles.

Referencing, using citations, avoiding plagiarism

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9. Appendices

Appendix 1 – Assessment Criteria

1. Essays:

Level 4

Able to analyse the question Clear indication of how it will be answered Appropriate content Develops a line of argument, makes a case Supports from further reading (at least 6 appropriate sources) Reaches an appropriate conclusion Correct referencing procedure Accurate use of English Word processed/accurate word-count

Tutor sets titles and help with structure.

Emphasis on marking at this level to be on content and structure.

Level 5

As for 4 plus the following…

Engage in difference lines of argument Evaluate different cases Develop a critical approach At least 8 appropriate references including journal articles/web-sites Write in an appropriate academic style

Student has some choice of content but within tutor approved title.

2. Oral Presentations:

Level 4

Content

Relevance of content to given/chosen topic Identification of key elements Visual materials support topic Appropriate use of written English in materials/handout

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Skills

Confidence in speaking Use of resources e.g. OHP, projectors, PowerPoint presentation Some audience involvement Quality of spoken English

Additional Criteria for Group Presentation

Collaborative approach to preparation for presentation Contributions from all group members during presentation

Level 5

Content

Relevance of content to topic Discussion of key elements Coherence of presentation Visual materials to elaborate on topic Handout

Skills

Confidence, use of voice range of presentational methods, use of resources Use and quality of resources Quality of spoken English

Additional Criteria for Group Presentation

Critical reflection on collaborative approach to presentation Distinct and equal contributions from all

3. Written Tasks during Contextual Studies Sessions

Level 4

Identify key issues under discussion Identify key points in lectures and readings Raise questions about ideas presented in lectures, readings, seminars Begin to make connections between difference elements of the module Begin to develop own lines of argument Identify key elements of own learning Demonstrate knowledge of some key ideas associated with area of study Accurate use of English Correct referencing procedures

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Level 5

Content

Able to discuss the key issues Analyse ideas presented in lectures and readings Critically reflect on module content drawing upon some further reading Apply some underlying concepts to other contexts by drawing links between difference

elements of module Reflect critically upon process of own learning Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of some of the key ideas associated

with area of study Writing in appropriate personal/academic style Appropriate references and correct referencing procedure

4. Thesis Preparation

Level 5 only

Abstract

Clear account of findings of investigation in single paragraph

Rationale

Clear statement of reason for choice of topic in relation to own back-ground knowledge and experience

Literature

An account of literature relevant to topic Should include some primary sources

Methods

Clear statement of specific question being investigated and methods used to answer it Commentary on why selected methods are appropriate

Findings

Clear presentation of data which is accessible to reader Presents answer to question posed

Conclusions

Discusses findings in terms of question posed and wider implications Refers to discussions in literature section

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5. Assessment in the workplace

Level 4

Engage as part of a team or with the mentor. Assess learning environment in a given context. Try a variety of methods used in the work placement. Identify problem areas. Identify positive areas within the work place experience. Document what your contribution is to the work placement. What have you gained from this experience? Document the experience through keeping a daily diary/log and visual/photographic

record. Write an evaluation.

Level 5

At Level 5 you will be expected to meet the Level 4 criteria with the addition of the following:

Liaise with external agencies yourself. Demonstrate development in your professional practice. Gain confidence in the employment market. Gather networks and contacts to assist with future career development.

6. Assessment of Studio Practice

See the ‘Marking Criteria’ in the following Appendix and individual Module Outlines in Appendix 1.

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Appendix 2 - Marking CriteriaThe following assessment criteria have been adopted for all assessment items. They will be amplified and/or refined by more specific criteria, which will be set out in the documentation for each specialised subject area.

Grade Related Criteria

Grade Indicative Mark Range

Criterion

A 100-80 An outstanding first

Work of outstandingly high quality and originality.

79-77 An excellent first

Work, which fulfils all the criteria of the A, grade, but at an exception standard for the level concerned. Substantial originality and insight, very few minor limitations.

76-74 A good first

Work of distinguished quality, which is based on extensive research and/or strong technical and creative competence. Clear and logical organisation; consistent scheme of references, used entirely appropriately. An authoritative grasp of concepts, methodology and content appropriate to the subject/ discipline and to the assessment task will be demonstrated. There is a clear evidenced of originality and insight and an ability to sustain an argument and/or solve discipline-related problems, based on critical analysis and/or evaluation. The ability to synthesise material effectively and the potential for skilled innovation in thinking and practice will be evident.

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73-70 A first

The qualities of an A grade but with more limitations. Work of very good quality which displays most, but not all, of the A grade characteristics for the level concerned.

B 69-67 A high upper second

Work, which clearly fulfils all the criteria of the B grade for the level concerned, but shows greater insight and/or originality.

66-64 A good upper second

Work of good quality, which is based on a wide range of properly referenced sources and/or creative input, demonstrating a sound and above average level of understanding of concepts, methodology and content appropriate to the subject/discipline and to the assessment task. There is clear evidence of critical judgement in selecting, ordering and analysing content to construct a sound argument based on responses, which reveal occasional insight and/or originality. Ability to solve discipline-related problems will be effectively and consistently demonstrated. Draws on an appropriate range of properly referenced sources.

63-60 An upper second

Work of good quality, which contains most, but not all, of the B grade characteristics for the level concerned.

C 59-57 A high lower second

Work, which clearly fulfils all the criteria of the C grade for the level concerned, but shows a greater degree of critical analysis and/or insight.

59-57 A high lower second

Work, which clearly fulfils all the criteria of the C grade for the level concerned, but shows a greater degree of

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critical analysis and/or insight.

56-54 A good lower second

Work of sound quality which is based on satisfactorily reference sources and/or creative input and which demonstrates a grasp of relevant material and key concepts, together with ability to structure and organise arguments or materials effectively.

The work may be rather standard, but will be mostly accurate, clearly communicated and provide some evidence of ability to engage in critical analysis and/or evaluation. There will be no serious omissions or irrelevancies. In dealing with solutions to technical problems, appropriate methods will be chosen. Coherent organisation in general with effective use of references and acknowledgement of sources.

53-50 A lower second

Work of sound quality, which contains most, but not all, of the C grade characteristics for the level concerned.

D 49-47 A high third

Work of a satisfactory standard demonstrating a reasonable level of understanding, and competent organisation, but lacking sufficient analysis and independence to warrant a C grade at the level concerned.

46-44 A good third

Work of satisfactory quality, which covers the basic subject matter adequately and is appropriately organised and presented, but which is primarily descriptive or derivative rather than analytical or creative. Study may be limited and narrowly focussed. There may be some misunderstanding of key concepts and limitations in the ability to select relevant material

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or techniques, and/or in communication or other relevant key skills, so that the work may be flawed by some errors, omissions or irrelevancies. There will be some evidence of appropriate research and ability to construct an argument, but it may be narrowly focused. In dealing with solutions to technical problems, established and appropriate methods will generally be chosen, but these may be applied uncritically.

43-40 A third

Work of bare pass standard demonstrating some familiarity with relevant subject matter and application of relevant academic capabilities, but only just meeting threshold standards in research, analysis, organisation, focus or other skills essential to the assessment task, and/or with significant errors or omissions.

F 39-30 A fail

Work which indicates some evidence of engagement with the subject material and learning process, but which is essentially misinterpreted, misdirected, misunderstood or poorly organised and sketchy or otherwise just failing to meet threshold standards at the level concerned.

F 29-20 A clear fail

Work which indicates little engagement with the subject material and learning process; which contains substantial errors or irrelevancies; which shows minimal evidence of planning and hardly any use of references and acknowledgement of sources; which clearly fails to meet threshold standards at the level concerned.

19-10 A bad fail

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Work of poor quality, which is based on only minimal effort and/or contains little of relevance. It will offer hardly any evidence of familiarity with subject materials or skills appropriate to the discipline or task at the level concerned.

9-1 A very poor fail

Some work submitted, but containing virtually nothing of any relevance, depth or merit.

F 0 Nothing submitted, and extension not agreed before due date; or work containing nothing of any relevance or merit.

L 0 Late submission; extension granted before due date.

UP 0 Work failed due to unfair practice.

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Documents

Foundation Degree in Graphic Design - ucw.ac.uk€¦ · Web viewWelcome. Welcome to the FdA Graphic Design Degree. This course is offered in partnership between Bath Spa University