The 21st Century Designer module (DJ22006)

You will focus specifically on the intellectual tools a 21st century designer needs.

You will be introduced to primary research methods. These cover how to gather information through observation and how to transform that into data to support your research.

Research allows you to explore design potential to affect local and international communities.

It also helps you develop and communicate a critical and engaged approach to your design practice.

What you will learn:

In this module, you will:

• be introduced to design thinking
• understand the varied ways in which research and design are linked and help each other
• study examples of contemporary designers' contribution and forms of engagement with society
• learn how to design a research project
• learn how to apply some primary research methods

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• appreciate design thinking
• understand how to conduct design research
• relate design research to your practice as a designer
• make use of common primary research methods to develop insights
• use a variety of techniques to explore and communicate ideas
• manage and communicate information online
• have a creative, informed, and reflective view of design
• work with others

Assignments / assessment

• group project presentation and oral presentation (40%)
  • (due week 21)
• 1,500-word individual piece of writing (60%)
  • (due week 23)

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

• 1-hour lectures - in person
• 2-hour of interactive seminars/workshops - in-person
• Talks by invited guests
• Group work on your project
• Tutorials (either in group or individually) - in person or online

You are likely to take part in one external visit, for example to V&A Dundee