A CWK - A&D weighted at 100%.

This module introduces you to the grammer of graphic design in a context of digital construction and current design practice. The module looks at the range and integration of graphics, involving imagery, icons, sequence and text. You are asked to experiment with the use of conventional media together with computer based creative tools. You are instructed on the basic design skills in image, typographic and sequence manipulation, and the creation of graphic structure. You will look at current imagery of working designers. You are given instruction, time and support for the computer tools and labs. You will work and support each other within teams, and are instructed in assessment of your own and each others work in progress.

A) An ability to look at the context of the brief and then to review the meaning and suefulness of yuor design ideas (Reflection).

B) Have acquired and used basic skills in effective and safe digital production of sequences of imagery and typography. An ability to create effective and lively layouts and sequences of imagery and typography (Production).

C) An understanding of, and an ability to apply, design ideas generation methods. An understanding of context and of how to communicate using graphic media (Creative synthesis).

D) An ability to organise and plan your work to make sure your submitted work is produced with considered content and sufficient effort (Organisation).

The content in brackets relates to the 10 learning outcomes for Art & Design students outlined in the School's Student Guide.

Undertaking practical investigation of the image and typographic and sequence production and form;
investigating with others, but producing individual final work. Attending and participating in workshops and seminars covering:

* Professional imaging techniques, constraints and criteria.
* Typographic techniques, constraints and criteria.
* Basic sequence and structure constraints and criteria.
* Learning and using of current industry software for image, type and sequence manipulation.

Research of basic issues/content to be communicated.

Undertaking theoretical investigations of graphic design in seminars and self managed research of:

* An overview of graphic language and image and sequence structures and meaning.
* An overview of typographic forms and history.
* An overview of typographic layout's use to convey 'musical' qualities of rhythm, colour and texture.

Participation in initial and interim group tutorials.crits to monitor your personal progress and understanding.

Normally 1.5 staff hours per student per 10 credit module.

Access to bookable studio space and small lecture/seminar room with blackout and digital presentation hardware. Computing workshop facilities and software.

Specific Skills modulettes will be assigned to this module as soon as possible. A comprehensive listing of the modulettes is available from the School Office, together with the current operational parameters (ie group size, time allocation etc) for the modulettes. Some module descriptors will have more than one modulette assigned and this information will be held by the School Office initially.

Animation on the Web: Sean Wagstaff, 1998, Peachpit copm site, http://www.peachpit.com/ontheweb/animation/, ISBN: 0201696878.
Letterwork: Neuenschwander B, Phaidon, 1993, ISBN: 0714828017.
Stop Stealing Sheep: Erik Spiekermann and E M Ginger, Adobe Press, 1993, ISBN: 0672485435.
Visual Thinking: Arnheim, R Faber, 1990, ISBN: 0571021715-0.
Web Graphics Tools and Techniques: Peter Kentie, 1997, Peachpit Press, ISBN: 0201688131.

Students are 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 practioners in their subject.

100% coursework. A completed solution to a problem in visual communications involving type, imagery, structure and sequence (A, B, C and D).

Supporting initial exercises, rough work and researched visual references and commentary on your own and others work. (A, B, C and D).

To achieve a pass; grade 4 and above, your design will show research of the topic(s), a clear semantic relationship between your imagery and textual content, and appropriate and competent use of sequence and type.

To achieve the highest grade, grade 13 and above, your design will use type, sequence and imagery sympathetically and symbiotically to reflect extensive research of the topic. Your work will contain thought provoking or innovative ideas which are communicated in a clear, appropriate way.

For an explanation of how your work will be judged please refer to the general learning outcomes statements for this level in the Programme Handbook.