This module introduces the student to the process of design and the importance of observation, idea generation, concept development and communication skills. The design process is established as a strategy for the successful development, evaluation and refinement of design
Importantly you will begin this "process" with a user-centred design philosophy, putting the person at the centre of the process, understanding their needs and desires. The student will gain an initial understanding of product and furniture design practices and the role of the design as it relates to empathies such as human factors, ergonomics and manufacturing including where appropriate the role of contemporary issues such as sustainable design practice.
Fundamentally, this module takes advantage of user-focused design techniques to create inspired and relevant design solutions. Context is introduced, materials and form giving are explored, all supported by the introduction of creative tools like brainstorming and design workshops where appropriate.
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Teaching will be delivered through a series of studio and workshop-based assignments and exercises with the emphasis on developing skills and creative techniques in a practical manner. The module will make use of the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) Canvas for communication and dissemination of information between students and staff as well as making online learning materials available to all. Students should check this site on a daily basis for module information, timetables, sign-ups, updates and additional information and teaching materials following individual project sessions.
All courses based in the Kingston School of Art offer students free access to the online video tutorial platform Lynda.com. This provides a wide range of subjects to choose from, many with downloadable exercise files, including software tutorials covering photography, graphics, web design, audio and music, CAD and Microsoft Office software, as well as courses on Business and Management skills. Some of these are embedded in the curriculum and offer additional self-paced learning, others may be taken at will by students wishing to broaden their employability skills in other areas.
Projects set within the module will allow and encourage experimentation and demonstration of the practical and theoretical application of this learning. Design projects, Studio-based teaching and workshop based teaching which include the following:
| Definitive UNISTATS Category | Indicative Description | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled learning and teaching | Guided studio and workshop project work Progress reviews/crits | 200 |
| Guided independent study | 100 | |
| Total (number of credits x 10) | 300 | |
Assessment is through evidence presented at studio critiques and peer review of sustained application through all assignments, which would normally be 4 projects.
Students are expected to improve and refine work as appropriate in response to critique and formative feedback/feed forward throughout the module. This provides an ongoing opportunity to improve their work in preparation for the end of module assessment and their personal portfolio.
There is a minimum of one tutorial progress review during this module. A summative grade based on the body of work is given at the end of the module.
| Learning Outcome | Assessment Strategy |
|---|---|
| 1. Demonstrate the ability to employ a design process to successfully develop, evaluate and refine design ideas. | Formatively assessed through project reviews and crits throughout the module. Summatively assessed in project work submitted at the end of the module. |
| 2. Evidence consideration of traditional design empathies such as human factors, ergonomics form giving and contemporary influences. | Formatively assessed through project reviews and crits throughout the module. Summatively assessed in project work submitted at the end of the module. |
| 3. Demonstrate creativity in the development of appropriate design solutions. | Formatively assessed through project reviews and crits throughout the module. Summatively assessed in project work submitted at the end of the module. |
| 4. Demonstrate a basic understanding of visual language and product semantics. | Formatively assessed through project reviews and crits throughout the module. Summatively assessed in project work submitted at the end of the module. |
| Description of Assessment | Definitive UNISTATS Categories | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Studio projects | Coursework | 100% |
| Total (to equal 100%) | 100% | |
It IS a requirement that the element of assessment is passed in order to achieve an overall pass for the module.
Cooper, M and Laville, E. (2000) Starck II single jumbo. Cologne: Taschen.
Dormer, P. (1993) Design since 1945. London: Thames and Hudson
Lefteri, C. (2006) Materials for inspirational design. Mies: Hove: Rotovision.
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Sparke, P. (1998) A century of design. London: Mitchell Beazley
www.designboom.com www.designaddict.com
Icon magazine Blueprint magazine New Design