This module introduce students to the fundamentals of Graphic Design and Typography and explores major developments and design trends in the visual arts from the late 19th through to the early 21st centuries. The aim is to enable students to evaluate the role graphic design plays in the communications industry. It will also establish an appreciation of the role of the designer in all creative and production areas with and the need for effective design in visual communications. The aim is to foster an awareness of contemporary visual communication design and an ability to analyse printed design work, text and image integration. To demonstrate the importance of effectively planning and executing projects from design briefing to delivery of product. To ensuring client requirements are met and to prepare students to adequately research the target market of the design brief. The module is designed to familiarize students with Microsoft and Adobe CC image editing software.
Tools and Technology
The course provides an introduction to the principles and practices of graphic design that serve as a grounding for multimedia productions. Introduction to basic computer terminology and file management and network access. Introduction to the main features of presentation software identifying the skills needed to create effective presentations. Identify key formal elements in graphic design processes and practices. Introduction to Microsoft Word for reports and essay production. Detailed introduction to the tools and capabilities of Adobe CC software to create digital content for graphic productions.
Introduction to Typography
Introduction to the fundamentals of typography - from basic terminology to abstract forms and typographic procedures. The origins of printed type and the printing revolution. Study of letterforms, type classification and typeface selection. History and development of type design (type specifications, readability, legibility, visual hierarchy, aesthetics of letterforms, optical adjustments, design unity). Interpretation and evaluation of type design through the centuries.
Project Planning & Development
Brainstorming methods. Research and development. Keeping a record of the development process involved throughout the project and the refinement of the idea. Recording why certain images would work or not work, how the idea was refined etc. Skills of objective evaluation about their work, discussing it with class members in an open forum format.
Design Studies (History)
History of visual communications from the origins of the written word to the development of written languages. An overview of major design trends in the late 19th and 20th century to include a review of pivotal artists/designers, and their impact on current graphic design trends up to the early 21th century.
Course Work
n/a
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 100 |