You will present for assessment a body of work as outlined in the module information pack. This is likely to include:
Finished visuals, together with layout pads showing research, analysis and development work, providing evidence of your ability to: Identify, research and analyse a communication problem, generate a range of creative proposals and select and present solutions in appropriate visual forms. [Learning Outcomes 2,4]
Produce and select solutions that demonstrate a developing aesthetic judgement based on sound research and observation, [Learning Outcomes 1,5]
Demonstrate an awareness of print production processes including the preparation of artwork for print. [Learning Outcome 3]

This module is concerned with the conveyance of meaning and information in its many different forms and deals with the practical issues of image making and visual problem solving within the broad field of visual communication. You will be encouraged to experiment with a range of media approaches in order to discover the ways in which different media carry different meanings and to express information in visually exciting and varied forms. The module is designed to build on knowledge and skills gained in previous modules by encouraging you to review, extend, develop and apply the use of creative visual thinking, visual language (type and image relationships), manipulative skills and a variety of communication methods towards fresh and innovative solutions.

You will work on visual communication problems in order to; (i) identify a problem, (ii) gather appropriate information, (iii) experiment with media in order to generate ideas and (iv) propose and evaluate potential solutions, one of which will be refined to a highly finished piece and appropriately prepared for a specific print process.

In support of this you will also receive a general introduction to current print methods and production and will be encouraged to experiment with techniques to produce fresh solutions whilst developing your manipulative skills.

A Smile in the Mind, B. McAlhone & D. Stuart, (Phaidon Press 1999)
Problem Solved: A Primer in Design & Communications, Michael Johnson, (Phaidon Press 2002)
The New Handmade Graphics, A. Odling-Smee, (Rotovision 2002)
The Designer & the Grid, L. Roberts & J.Thrift, (Rotovision 2001)
Emigre: Graphic Design into the Digital Realm, Rudy VanderLans, et al, (John Wiley & Sons 1993)
D&AD Annuals

Periodicals:
Grafik: Journal of the Best in International Graphic Design, (Monthly) www.grafikmagazine.co.uk
Eye: The International Review of Graphic Design, (Quarterly) www.eyemagazine.com

Project work will integrate practical (technical, aesthetic) and theoretical aspects of visual communication. There will be studio work including introductory lectures / seminars, group tutorials and crits to present your visual proposals. There will also be group instruction in the screen printing process in both a commercial and experimental context.

Studio workspace and seminar room with 35mm slide projection and video facilities.
Computer Workshops
Specific skills modulettes will be assigned to this module.
You will be expected to take advantage of the extensive library facilities available within the university; keeping abreast of current developments through appropriate periodicals and being aware of the work of major practitioners in your subject.