Module Descriptors
SET DESIGN
FVFX50170
Key Facts
School of Digital, Technologies and Arts
Level 5
30 credits
Hours of Study
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: 72
Independent Study Hours: 228
Total Learning Hours: 300
Assessment
- COURSEWORK weighted at 100%
Module Details
Module Texts
VFX Set Design - KEY texts will be housed in the Thompson Library, other texts are listed as further reading or useful sources of information. Staff will update these lists as newer titles appear.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/registry/wishlist/2G58HV99EE5JB
http://www.amazon.co.uk/registry/wishlist/2G58HV99EE5JB
Module Indicative Content
The most successful film and games rely heavily upon convincing set / level design to contextualise both characters and plots against (e.g. Alien, Blade Runner, Star Wars, Fallout 3, S.T.A.L.K.E.R, AVATAR, Prometheus, Tintin, King Kong, District 9 etc.). Most are based upon recognised architectural principles and proven (or perceived) manufacturing capability.
This module will encourage you to acknowledge and challenge conventional thinking, the culmination being exciting, original, yet convincing environments which assist in the delivery of storyline, audience or participant involvement.
You need to communicate these ideas and demonstrate a clear understanding of the role of 'environments' in either film / game scenarios and the relationship that physical form, technology, culture, texture, materials, colour and lighting (ambient and task) play in the communication / depiction of such.
This module will encourage you to acknowledge and challenge conventional thinking, the culmination being exciting, original, yet convincing environments which assist in the delivery of storyline, audience or participant involvement.
You need to communicate these ideas and demonstrate a clear understanding of the role of 'environments' in either film / game scenarios and the relationship that physical form, technology, culture, texture, materials, colour and lighting (ambient and task) play in the communication / depiction of such.
Module Additional Assessment Details
Coursework to consist of the following:
[Learning Outcomes 1-4]
(refer to Blackboard to see which Learning Outcomes relate to specific review / assessment stages and weightings for each component)
Component A - Research / Inspirational Moodboards / Benchmarks
The compilation of appropriate visual reference boards, conveying sources of industry standard inspiration and communication benchmarks appropriate for either film or games industry.
Component B - Design Concepts
Production of an appropriate range of design solutions, clearly communicated on paper via sketch drawing, presentation media and sketch modelling (where appropriate) These designs can be finalised as either 2D (concept art) or 3D (CGI / digital models) presentations.
Key Information Set:
100% Coursework
[Learning Outcomes 1-4]
(refer to Blackboard to see which Learning Outcomes relate to specific review / assessment stages and weightings for each component)
Component A - Research / Inspirational Moodboards / Benchmarks
The compilation of appropriate visual reference boards, conveying sources of industry standard inspiration and communication benchmarks appropriate for either film or games industry.
Component B - Design Concepts
Production of an appropriate range of design solutions, clearly communicated on paper via sketch drawing, presentation media and sketch modelling (where appropriate) These designs can be finalised as either 2D (concept art) or 3D (CGI / digital models) presentations.
Key Information Set:
100% Coursework
Module Resources
Fully equipped 2D and 3D studio / workshops, to include appropriate software and hardware (e.g. Google SketchUp, Maya, V-Ray, Z-Brush and Cry Engine)
Non-specialist computing facilities for email, internet access, word processing, database, spreadsheet and basic presentations will be available through LLRS/ITS facilities on campus, not from within the Faculty itself - the exception being the Faculty's Student Browsers based in studios which will support email and internet access.
The Blackboard virtual learning environment (VLE) will be available (where relevant) to support this module. Details will be supplied in the module handbook.
Reference to Digital Tutors will be encouraged / expected across the course of this module. More specific references to key media will be provided via Blackboard VLE / Digital Tutors website.
Non-specialist computing facilities for email, internet access, word processing, database, spreadsheet and basic presentations will be available through LLRS/ITS facilities on campus, not from within the Faculty itself - the exception being the Faculty's Student Browsers based in studios which will support email and internet access.
The Blackboard virtual learning environment (VLE) will be available (where relevant) to support this module. Details will be supplied in the module handbook.
Reference to Digital Tutors will be encouraged / expected across the course of this module. More specific references to key media will be provided via Blackboard VLE / Digital Tutors website.
Module Learning Strategies
You will be tasked with completing a designated practical assignment that requires two key stages to be completed:
1. Generation of visual moodboards that synthesise research and inspiration into themed benchmark references.
2. Using '1' as reference, produce design concepts as either 2D or 3D output, as defined by verbal briefing / launch and Blackboard VLE materials.
In order to complete this module, you will need to:
Attend all staffed contact slots*
Attend any designated Technical instruction in relation to Computer Workshops and Green Screen resources (including modulettes)
Utilise third party training media (such as Digital Tutors and Lynda.com)
Demonstrate and discuss weekly progression of design ideas via 'in class' discussions
Demonstrate independent learning and self-managed skills progression
Demonstrate 'further reading' via review of appropriate written, film and games titles that would further your knowledge / awareness of the creativity and importance of sets in conveying storylines.
Complete both elements of the module to an acceptable standard
Generation of concise, communicative flatwork / media for review by peers and staff team.
Group critiques and presentations will be used throughout the module, providing both regular verbal feedback and guidance in relation to each persons progress.
Students are encouraged to make note of these recommendations and feedback
Key Information Set:
24% scheduled teaching and learning activities
76% guided independent study
1. Generation of visual moodboards that synthesise research and inspiration into themed benchmark references.
2. Using '1' as reference, produce design concepts as either 2D or 3D output, as defined by verbal briefing / launch and Blackboard VLE materials.
In order to complete this module, you will need to:
Attend all staffed contact slots*
Attend any designated Technical instruction in relation to Computer Workshops and Green Screen resources (including modulettes)
Utilise third party training media (such as Digital Tutors and Lynda.com)
Demonstrate and discuss weekly progression of design ideas via 'in class' discussions
Demonstrate independent learning and self-managed skills progression
Demonstrate 'further reading' via review of appropriate written, film and games titles that would further your knowledge / awareness of the creativity and importance of sets in conveying storylines.
Complete both elements of the module to an acceptable standard
Generation of concise, communicative flatwork / media for review by peers and staff team.
Group critiques and presentations will be used throughout the module, providing both regular verbal feedback and guidance in relation to each persons progress.
Students are encouraged to make note of these recommendations and feedback
Key Information Set:
24% scheduled teaching and learning activities
76% guided independent study