Students must submit work for all assessments.
Assessment 1: One industry brief, initiated by the student, designed to enhance identified progression skills needs (60%) [Learning Outcome 3]

Assessment 2: An evaluation of the project, with findings expressed through a range of communication methods (20%) [Learning Outcome 1]

Assessment 3: Reflective Learning Journal documenting the student's progress associated with the project (20%) [Learning Outcome 2]

Baines, P. & Haslam, A.Type and Typography (2005) Laurance King Publishing
British Design and Art Direction. Editor Austin J. The graphics book: and inspirational world tour of current graphic design, thought & practise presented through profiles of 58 designers (2002) Rotovision
Chen Design Associates. One Colour Graphics: the power of contrast (2004) Rockport
Klenten R. Bourquin N. & Geiger T. Tres Logos (2006) Die Gestalten Verlag
Loewy, Print and Production Finishes for CD and DVD Packaging (2006) Rotovision
Rivers, C. Poster-art: Innovation in Poster Design (2007) Rotovision
Rivers, C. DVD Art: Innovation in DVD Packaging Design (2005) Rotovision
Stoklossa U. (edited by Rempen T) Advertising ? New Techniques for Visual Seduction (2007) Thames & Hudson
Sutherland R. & Karg B. Graphic Designers Colour handbook: choosing and using colour from concept to final output. (2004 ) Quayside Pub Group

Creative Review, Centaur Communications
Design Week, Centaur Publications
Computer Arts, Future Publishing

This module works partly in parallel and partly in response to the student's findings from Investigation, Reflection and Expression 3. The work undertaken will be selected to fulfil needs identified in that module. The work may be directed towards an academic pathway or to industry and entrepreneurial progression in the Graphics and Digital Design Industry.

In Investigation, Reflection and Expression 3 students will have planned a project, in consultation with their tutors and industry partners. Should students be considering an academic progression, consultation should include a University tutor and other academic contacts, such as students or recent graduates. This module takes the form of implementing the project and evaluating the outcome. The project should be of an achievable scale, covering all aspects from research and planning through to implementation and evaluation.

A wide range of communication experiences should form part of the module, such as meetings, presentations, writing for different purposes (e.g. bids for funding, extended essays, reports, letters, emails, minutes etc) interviews, promotion, advertising, negotiating techniques etc.

Examples of work students might carry out are: identifying a local market or target audience and creating a graphics/digital design product such as a website or print based product for educational or entertainment purposes, leading to an evaluation of the success of the project. Alternatively students might identify a place/person/subject that needs promoting or documenting and carry out appropriate research, again leading to the design and creation of a graphics/digital design product to fulfil the identified need, and afterwards evaluate its success or otherwise.

Creativity should always be at the forefront. If the chosen project is 'small-scale' this shouldn't restrict the student to 'small-scale' thinking. Many small companies and organisations have succeeded in raising awareness through campaigns or style refinements that embraces true creative thinking. For example Tango Orange soft drinks, Orange mobile phones and Honda cars.

Introduction to module: 2 hrs
Project management workshops: 5 hours
Written, visual & oral communication methods: 25 hrs
Funding sources and financial planning: 15 hrs
Research workshops: 10 hrs
Practical studio workshops: 20 hrs
Student presentations and evaluation: 10 hrs
Individual tutorials: 5 hrs per student

Total contact time 92 hrs pr student

Work practice activities should comprise a minimum 110 hours, and include:

Identification and initiation of a brief
Involvement in meetings
Pitching of proposed responses
Creation of a range of associated written documents (proposals, reports etc)
Management of the design process
Evaluation of the outcome to an audience

Students will have access to a range of studios and studio resources, including digital technology, photographic studios, cameras and software packages. The colleges are committed to a continuous renewal and updating programme that reflects contemporary practice.