Module Details

Module Code: APPL
Module Title: Design Theory, Methods and Application
Title: Design Theory, Methods and Application
Module Level:: 6
Credits:: 5
Module Coordinator: Eileen Doyle
Module Author:: PJ White
Domains:  
Module Description: The module aims to introduce the learner to the importance and relevance of Design Theory, Methods and process and understand their application into Design Practice. This module will introduce the history of Design theory and the application of these to future and present contexts. Learners will understand the application of theory, methods and processes in Design practice projects how they can assist in design problem-solving. Through Design theory and practice the module aims to get learners to reflect on their own practice, their role as a developing designer and their design philosophy.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Demonstrate theoretical understanding of design methods and processes
LO2 Explore the influence history of design methods and processes has had on the current design environment
LO3 Critically assess the differences in various design methods and processes and be confidently flexible in their application
LO4 Apply learnt methods and processes in design work and reflect on personal design philosophy
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.

No recommendations listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Additional Requisite Information
No Co Requisites listed
 
Indicative Content
Design Evolution
• Overview of History of Design methodologies and processes: Artifact to Experience • Current methods and processes in detail (Double Diamond etc) • Visiting Lecturer talk: discussion their profession and process methods • Overview of Design Trends and skills of the Future
Literature review
• Self-Identifying the learner's interest area in Design and selecting reading to learn more about that area • Critical Assessment of 3 pieces of academic writing and reflecting on this in the context of personal development
Design Methods and Application
• Understanding Research Methods: Mixed, Qualitative and Quantitative and when to use them • Understanding Design Processes in Practice and Studio Projects • Applying Design Theory in Practice and Studio projects
Design Studio (Resource)
A dedicated space designed to allow for studio-based learning. This space is specific to a particular learning group. While used to deliver studio-based education the space is available to accommodate learners outside scheduled/timetabled hours. It provides a safe learner-driven, peer-reviewed environment, supported on a one-to-one basis. It supports the synthesis of parallel concurrent modular knowledge, skills and competency with prior learning & personal aesthetic judgement, to resolve specific design research question/s.
Technician (Resource)
A dedicated design technician to support, demonstrate and maintain equipment while auditing and stocking of materials for the design workshop and studio practice
Computers/Plotters/Printers (Resource)
Each learner requires access to studio computers. There should be access to printing and plotting facilities to complete Projects. The room must also be fitted with a good quality projector, document visualisers and sound equipment for delivery of hybrid approaches
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Continuous Assessment100.00%

Assessments

Full Time

Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type Project % of Total Mark 50
Timing Week 7 Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
Literature Review and Verbal Presentation: The learner will self-Identify a Design area, method or process of interest to them. They will write a literature review and present a verbal presentation reflecting on this in the context of personal development. It will include a critical assessment of 3 pieces of academic writing or publications in the interest area.
Assessment Type Written Report % of Total Mark 50
Timing Week 15 Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
Essay/ Report: Learners will write an essay or report on the Design Process and methods in Practice. They will select a project they are working on in the studio and describe the application of Design Theory, methods and processes in this work.
No Project
No Practical
No End of Module Formal Examination
Reassessment Requirement
Repeat the module
The assessment of this module is inextricably linked to the delivery. The student must reattend the module in its entirety in order to be reassessed.

SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Workload Category Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecturer Supervised Learning Contact Supervision, guidance and mentoring of task workload by faculty Every Week 3.00 3
Independent Learning Time Non Contact Individual and collaborative peer-to-peer learning, in skill & competency development. Every Week 6.00 6
Total Weekly Contact Hours 3.00
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • John Cresswell. Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches.
  • Brenda Laurel. (2003), Design Research: Methods and Perspectives, MIT Press.
  • Nigel Cross. (2011), Design Thinking: Understanding How Designers Think and Work, Berg Press.
  • Hilary Dempsey. IT Carlow House Style of Sketching booklet.
  • Alex Milton & Paul Rodgers. Research methods for product design, Laurence King Publishing, London.
Supplementary Book Resources
  • Donald Norman. The Design of Everyday Things.
  • Donald Norman. Emotional Design.
  • Victor Papanek. Design for the Real World.
  • Tim Brown. Change by Design.
  • Bon Ku, MD and Ellen Lupton. Heath Design Thinking, Cooper Hewlett.
  • Alastair Fuad-Luke. The Eco-Design Handbook, Thames & Hudson Ltd.
Recommended Article/Paper Resources
Supplementary Article/Paper Resources
  • Co-Design.
  • Design Issues.
  • Design Journal.
  • Journal of Usability Studies.
Other Resources
Discussion Note: