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2016/17 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

DESN1975 Theory and Research in Graphic Design

10 creditsClass Size: 20

Module manager: Dr Maria Lonsdale
Email: M.Lonsdale@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2016/17

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

This module introduces students to research developments and key theories within Graphic Design.It will explore the inter-relationship between research, theory and practice. Case studies for each individual theme will be also analysed in order to clearly understand how the theoretical concepts and research outcomes inform and are applied in practice. Such an approach will prove extremely valuable in supporting students’ learning and critical thinking in more practice-focused modules.

Objectives

The module aims to develop students’ awareness of the theoretical issues associated with graphic design and their application to practice.

Specifically, the module aims to develop students’ ability to:
a. Present written and argued perspectives based on theory and research.
b. Identify different key issues of graphic design and understand the role played by each one in the development of effective design solutions.
c. Confidently analyse and discuss how graphic design is researched and how research and theory inform practice.
d. Demonstrate an understanding of research methods, creative tools and theoretical concepts important to the development of graphic design.

This module underpins the School’s aim to form designers who are literate and able to think for themselves.

Learning outcomes
On completion of the module, students should be able to:
1. Identify, interpret and discuss key aspects of Graphic Design research and theory.
2. Analyse examples of graphic language via case studies.
3. Make connections between research, theory and practice.
5: Demonstrate an understanding of theoretical concepts and apply them to practice.
4. Think independently and present written and oral arguments coherently.
6. Demonstrate essay writing skills, investigation of secondary sources and appropriate referencing.

Skills outcomes
Visual Analysis
Time management
Critical Thinking

Syllabus

Indicative syllabus

Week 1. Introduction to the module

Week 2. Research methods for design

Week 3. Basics of semiotics

Week 4. Principles of typographic design

Week 5. Project report

Week 6. Principles of colour design

Week 7. Principles of document design and page layout

Week 8. Principles of information design

Week 9. Principles of branding/packaging design

Week 10. Principles of digital/interactive design

Week 11. Basics of creativity

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Lecture	11	1.00	11.00
Seminar	1	1.00	1.00
Private study hours			88.00
Total Contact hours			12.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			100.00

Private study

Each lecture is supported by material that is available on the Blackboard VLE. This material provides links to appropriate journal papers, books and websites.

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Student progress is monitored through lecture attendance. Progress will also be monitored through the overview of an essay plan, which is submitted in Week 5 and will provide a point for formal feedback

Methods of assessment

Coursework

Assessment type	Notes	% of formal assessment
Essay	1000-1500 words	90.00
Project	250-500	10.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)		100.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 27/04/2016

Disclaimer

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• Undergraduate module catalogue
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• Taught Postgraduate programme catalogue

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