TY2DTS-Design thinking

Module Provider: Typography
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Prof Rick Poynor
Email: r.e.poynor@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

An introduction to the ideas and discussions that surround and underpin contemporary design practice, for students following the Study Abroad option in Part 2.

Aims:

This module aims to introduce students to contemporary issues in design by encouraging critical reading and discussion, and to inform their designing by broadening their view of what constitutes design as a professional activity. The module reinforces the Department's view of design as a rational, evidence-based activity and aims to educate typographic designers to be literate and able to think for themselves.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module students should be able to:

- identify and describe key concepts in design theory and history

- respond critically to texts on design

- evaluate the relevance and validity of research studies and other writing

- make connections between theory, history, and practice

- assemble and organise material and articulate clearly and concisely in oral and written forms

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:

Each delivery of the module will typically contain two themes. Examples of themes include:

• history for graphic designers 


• critical writing for graphic designers


• graphic design theory and reflective practice 


• graphic design and society


• the development of the role of the designer


• understanding and accommodating the user


• sustainability in design 


• inclusive design 

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Each theme within the module is divided into topics, typically three. Each theme consists of a combination of plenary sessions, smaller reading discussion groups or workshops and student-led seminar presentations to explore topics in depth.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	6
Seminars	9
Guided independent study:	80	5
Total hours by term			0
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written assignment including essay	90
Oral assessment and presentation	10

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Students will write one essay of approximately 2500-3000 words (90% of the module mark) to be submitted in the spring term. They will also be assessed on their contribution to reading discussion groups during autumn term (10%). 

Formative assessment methods:

The discussion groups form a foundation to inform the essay. Students will be given feedback on a short piece of writing of 450-500 words in the Spring term.

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 40% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:

Any individual item of coursework will be carried forward if it bears a confirmed mark of not less than 40%, otherwise it must be resubmitted by an August/September date to be notified.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 8 April 2021