TY2VI-Visualising Information

Module Provider: Typography
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Ms Sara Chapman
Email: s.k.chapman@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module focuses on the communication of information and data from both a design practice and theoretical perspective. We live in an information age, with vast amounts of data being generated and communicated every second – visualisation techniques (such as charts, diagrams, graphs, maps etc.) are key to supporting understanding. Teaching on this module focuses on the extension of graphic communication skills through the application of design practice, theory, and technology to project work; and the ability to communicate effectively about the graphic communication of information through elements of design history extending engagement with theory.

Aims:

The module aims to develop an insightful approach to visualising information, integrated with and informed by historical and theoretical insight and competence in technology across a range of genres.

Assessable learning outcomes:

[related to the practical submission]:

• Present design proposals professionally for different audiences and contexts of use


• Conceptualise and synthesize solutions to project briefs through analysis, research, planning, idea generation, and implementation 


• Realise effective design solutions for project briefs using an appropriate range of hand, photographic, and computer tools 


• Realise effective design solutions for visualising data with reference to appropriate data visualisation principles and practice

[related to the essay submission]:

• Critically discuss and articulate historical and theoretical aspects of design and their application to practice 
  
   

Additional outcomes:

Students should be able to engage with research to inform their project work, defend their approach to a problem, and make an effective verbal and visual presentation of their ideas.

Outline content:

Students will typically work on a practical project receiving formative feedback during the project, and attend lectures and workshops introducing core theoretical and historical content ahead of a submission for summative assessment at the end of the project. Lecture and workshop content, along with insights from practical work feed into a summatively assessed essay.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The practical project is started with a plenary briefing session where the brief is set and the project parameters explained. Briefs are written to encourage solutions that spring from an analysis of the problem and information. Projects will vary in the degree to which a particular technological approach is required. Students are expected to use studio facilities within the department wherever possible during projects. Seminars and small tasks may be used to introduce concepts and approaches , which inform project work. Interim criticism and other contact with tutors is typically through small group sessions. Lectures and seminars will introduce theoretical and historical topics. Students will work in groups, independently, and in full group sessions.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures		30
Seminars		2
Tutorials		26
Practicals classes and workshops		4
Guided independent study:
Wider reading (directed)		70
Preparation for tutorials		68
Total hours by term	0	200	0
Total hours for module	200

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written assignment including essay	50
Project output other than dissertation	50

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

There are two equally weighted summative assessments, one practical project and one essay. Assessment may include presentations.

Formative assessment methods:

Formative feedback is given during tutorials and through peer review.

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: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/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:

40%

Reassessment arrangements:

Work that did not achieve a passing mark must be resubmitted in August/September; exact date to be notified.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: None

2) Specialist equipment or materials: None

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: None

4) Printing and binding: £20-£30

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: Adobe software

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence: None

Last updated: 27 June 2023