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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Developing Core Practices (Communication Design)
Reference AA2407 Version 1
Created August 2023 SCQF Level SCQF 8
Approved September 2023 SCQF Points 30
Amended ECTS Points 15

Aims of Module
To develop core conceptual, theoretical and practical principles, methods and processes consolidating discipline-specific focus situated within the broader context of Communication Design

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Show a further refined design development process in response to a range of project briefs.
2 Use an expanded range of analogue and digital drawing, visualisation and image making techniques and processes across a series of briefs leading to an emerging personal visual language.
3 Distinguish insights and conclusions from a design process that lead to a range of refined creative ideas, concepts and outputs across a series of design projects.
4 Practice an expanded range of communication skills in visual, verbal, and written forms during the conduct of design projects.
5 Write further positive creative responses to themes of sustainability across all briefs.

Indicative Module Content
The module develops practical and theoretical aspects of communication design principles, methods and visualisation techniques which may typically include: Developing a deeper understanding of: Design development processes. Investigation, evaluation and analysis of design briefs. Design research skills, ideas generation, evaluative and critical skills, etc. Further investigation, analyses and evaluation of the design development process and visual language of a wide range of design practitioners. Conveying message, meaning, purpose and application (e.g. exploring and investigating metaphor, analogy, semiotics, figures of speech, allegory, representation, etc). Image making principles, processes and methods (e.g. exploring and understanding composition, visual hierarchy, alignment, balance, proximity, repetition, consistency, contrast, tone, texture, colour, typography etc). Image making processes and methods (e.g. exploring and investigating materials, equipment & tools etc). Appropriate selection and management of software, resources, data and technology. Print techniques (e.g. screen-printing, relief etc). Photography techniques (e.g. use of SLRs and DSLRs, processing and printing from film etc). Digital image manipulation software (e.g. Photoshop, Illustrator etc). Video, motion and animation. Communication and presentation skills: visual, verbal & written. Individual and group working. The development of an emerging personal approach and working method through the interpretation of project briefs. Through hands-on activities, workshops, and collaborations, students develop practical skills and technical abilities necessary for integrating sustainable problem-solving into their practice.

Module Delivery
The module is lecture/studio/workshop/online based with allocated time for private study and further reading. It is supported by lectures, demonstrations, crits, student centred seminars and tutorials. Projects are introduced and expanded upon by using relevant background material, which may include video, audio visual and/or multi media presentations. These introductions are supported by online material.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours 100 N/A
Non-Contact Hours 200 N/A
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours N/A N/A
TOTAL 300 N/A
Actual Placement hours for professional, statutory or regulatory body    

ASSESSMENT PLAN
If a major/minor model is used and box is ticked, % weightings below are indicative only.
Component 1
Type: Coursework Weighting: 100% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Description: Digital submission of resolved self-directed design project work and supporting portfolio of all research and development work produced within the module. This would typically include workbooks, workshop tasks, digital files and online resources, samples, models, maquettes, documentation and any other relevant materials.

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
In order to pass the module students need to achieve a D or above.
Module Grade Minimum Requirements to achieve Module Grade:
A An A in C1
B A B in C1
C A C in C1
D A D in C1
E An E in C1
F An F in C1
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module None.
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

ADDITIONAL NOTES
The Bibliography indicates core texts that are considered essential reading for this module. You will be guided to further sources of information relevant to this module through CampusMoodle. These may typically include web based materials, journals, video and presentations.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 MILLMAN, D., 2012. Brand Bible: The Complete Guide to Building, Designing and Sustaining Brands. Rockport Publishing.
2 FLETCHER, A., 2004. Beware Wet Paint. Phaidon Press.
3 SHORT, M., 2011. Basics Creative Photography, Context & Narrative. AVA Publishing.
4 WIGAN, M., 2014. Thinking Visually for Illustrators. Fairchild Books.
5 Ogilvy, D. (2011) Ogilvy on advertising. London: Prion.
6 Arden, P. (2014) It's not how good you are, it's how good you want to be. London: Phaidon.


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