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This module provides you with an introduction to effective visual communication, both theory and practice in its many different forms. The emphasis will be on creative visual thinking and methods used to form meaning through a broad range of media approaches (in both digital and print, two and three dimensions ). The intention is that this module will prompt research and experimentation into visual problem solving and methods used to arrive at solutions. It will also provide a bridge between both existing and new knowledge/skills by identifying and addressing particular individual needs towards a common goal. This module will therefore provide a solid foundation for further development in visual communication theory and practice.
You will develop an understanding of the various stages of the creative process, image making and methods of presenting information. Through group projects you will be able to explore ideas and theories in a wide range of visual forms and will gain valuable experience in teamwork.

All students will have the opportunity to attend introductory 3D workshops in order to develop specific skills. These will be chosen according to your own personal/project needs, and you will be encouraged to experiment with media in order to produce fresh, creative solutions.

This module will also introduce you to the skills needed to research, evaluate and present information in relation to both your practical design work and academic written material - skills on which the professional practice of the visual communicator and designer relies upon. This element will focus on the how and why a designer researches, how to use historical and contextual research to inform, enrich and underpin your practical work. It will also explore ways to evaluate, construct and present information in written, verbal and visual forms allowing you to articulate your views on historical and contemporary practice.

You will be introduced to resources within and outside the University that will enable you to gather information. You will learn the conventions employed to organise information and explore some of the techniques and technologies now used to present information in written, verbal and visual forms. You will be required to consider how the content of this module is applied to your practical design work, exploring the context in which your work sits and how factors such as semiotics and image deconstruction underpin your practice.

You will also learn how to use University facilities such as the Design Collection and Thompson Library as well as external resources including a design museum/exhibition visit. You will also gain the IT skills needed for the gathering and presenting of information in an academic context.

You will present for assessment a body of work as outlined in the module information pack,
this is likely to include:
Finished visuals, design development in the form of notebooks and layout pads that will provide evidence of your ability to work through the design process including visual research, creative visual thinking and the ability to communicate effectively using an appropriate visual format. [Learning Outcome 1,2, 3, 4] WEIGHTED at 65%.

A presentation (Learning Outcomes 3, 4, 6) WEIGHTED at 15%

1000 word illustrated essay (Learning Outcomes 4, 5, 6) WEIGHTED at 20%


KEY INFORMATION SETS
80% coursework
20% practical exams (skills assessments and presentations)

Studio workspace and seminar room with presentation and projection facilities.
3D Workshops
Specific skills modulettes will be assigned to this module.
Lecture theatre
Data projector
Design collection
Library
IT workshops
The Blackboard virtual learning environment will be available (where relevant) to support this module. Details
will be supplied in the module handbook.
MS Team digital platform will be used as a teaching and learning resource. Refer to your module pack and calendar for information.

Project work will integrate practical (technical, aesthetic) and theoretical aspects of visual communication.
You will be required to participate in:
Introductory lectures
Seminars,
Technical workshops/ Academic workshops (formal technical instruction sessions and library, design collection and design museum/exhibition based activities).
Group tutorials
Critique and feedback sessions
Group work
Formative assessments
Independent study in support of your practical work.

KEY INFORMATION SETS
24% scheduled Learning & Teaching activities
76% guided independent learning