Assessment 1.
A portfolio giving evidence of the experimental use of a wide range of visual media, showing innovative use of 2 and 3D techniques and processes, including new and traditional materials and equipment. Sketchbooks and other visual material to be annotated to show reflective analysis and evaluation of the different media and its use in your own work and that of others within a fashion context. (80%) [LOs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

Assessment 2.
An in-depth PowerPoint (or similar platform) presentation on a fashion illustrator, to be negotiated with your tutor, supported by critical analysis in the form of a fully referenced report and visual material evaluating the influence of the illustrator on the fashion industry and your own work. (20%)
[LOs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

Formative assessment.
The participation in group discussions relating to the value of research and communication in the fashion industry.

In this module you will develop the underpinning study skills you will need to support your progress through the creative aspects of studying fashion. You will achieve this by applying different techniques in a relevant way that helps contextualise the expected methods of working on modules that make up your Foundation degree. You will look at how to research and provide evidence of your working practice in both practical and theoretical ways, and how the two are linked. A key element of working in the fashion industry is good communication, and you will learn how to expand your skills through carrying out relevant exercises using visual, written and oral communication.

You will be encouraged to evaluate your own learning progress and your responsibilities regarding studying and managing your workload. You will be expected to carry out substantial work in your own time, and you may draw upon a wide range of sources for the assessment material, including from your workplace, visits to exhibitions and fashion related events.

IIn order to expand and improve your visual communication skills you will be introduced to a range of new and traditional media and mark-making techniques, experimenting with different methods and approaches and applying the skills in fashion related exercises. The language and concepts associated with discussing and analysing visual forms will be explored, and you will use a range of communication methods to demonstrate and share your understanding of the formal elements and concepts associated with the visual arts, particularly with reference to the fashion industry.

You will be encouraged to consider the impact of outside influences on your work, including fashion industry trends and changes, leaders in the fashion sector and wider factors such as technological and financial influences. By carrying out a study on a fashion illustrator you will be able to consider your own work in the context of professional practice, and how other people's work might influence your own and the fashion sector in general. You will be able to identify areas where your own skills need developing, and aspects of your own work that are of benefit and will support your own development needs. The rehearsal and sharing of ideas with peers and tutors will support your creation of a personal style and the ability to explain visual ideas to an audience.

Indicative:
Introductory briefing at onset of module
Seminars, lectures and group tutorials considering communication techniques
Workshops and studio tutorials relating to study skills
Demonstrations of media and their application
Group tutorials with formative feedback
Individual tutorials
Group critiques

Students will have access to studio space and college library and computer resources. University learning resources are available on campus at Stafford and Stoke-on-Trent, and online via the partner Need to Know pages of the university website.
http://www.staffs.ac.uk/courses_and_study/partnerships/current_students/email/index.jsp

Blackman, C. (2007) 100 Years of Fashion Illustration. Laurence King
Borrelli, L. (2008) Fashion Illustration by Fashion Designers. Thames & Hudson
Burke, S. (2006) Fashion Computing: Design Technique and CAD. Burke Publishing
Chariau, J. (2010) Drawing Fashion: A Century of Fashion Illustration. Prestel-Verlag.
Cottrell, S. (2005) Critical Thinking Skills . Basingstoke: Palgrave
Davis, H. (2010) Fashion Designers Sketchbooks. Laurence King
Dieffenbacher, F. (2013) Fashion Thinking: Creative Approaches to the Design Process. Bloomsbury Publishing Group
Downton, D. (2010) Masters of Fashion Illustration. Laurence King
Faerm, S (2010) Fashion Design Course: Principles, Practice and Techniques: The Ultimate Guide for Aspiring Fashion Designers. Thames and Hudson
Huaixiang, T. (2004) Character Costume Figure Drawings: Step by Step Drawing Methods for Theatre Costume Designers. Elsevier
Nadoolman Landis, D. (2012) Hollywood Sketchbook: A century of Costume Illustration. Harper Design
Tallon, K. (2006) Creative Fashion Design with Illustrator. Batsford
Tallon, K. (2008) Digital Fashion Illustration with Photoshop and Illustrator. Batsford

Websites:
http://www.tate.org.uk/collections/glossary/definition.jsp?entryId=427
http://www.jerwoodvisualarts.org/page/3095/Jerwood+Drawing+Prize+2010