Related Course/s:

A unit of study in the  and Graduate Diploma of Design (Communication Design).

Aims & Objectives:

• To explore the nature of typography, media and publications, their traditions and forms, especially the range of grid systems possible in publication design.
• To develop a sophisticated knowledge of text setting and usage in publications.
• To apply design research methodologies and insights to design outcomes.
• To apply advanced design skills and graphic techniques to a complex project.
• To develop skills in project management.
• To undertake student centred learning.

Teaching Methods:

This is a lecture and discussion based subject with guest speakers where appropriate, group discussion of readings and research, and constructive critique of work in progress.

Assessment:

100% project work.

Content:

This unit explores a range of publication forms, considering the traditions of publication design but also their modification through experimentation. It focuses on more complex information design issues, especially the role of visual communication in mediating the reception of information and contemporary social experience. The types of projects explored include large text based publications such as annual reports, bid documents, posters, brochures and maps.

Reading Materials:

Elam, K, Geometry of Design, Princeton Architectural Press, New York, 2001.
Lupton, E & Abbott Miller, J, Design Writing Research: Writing on graphic design, Phaidon, London, 1999.
Margolin, V (ed.), Design Discourse: History, Theory, Criticism, University of Chicago Press, 1989.
Swanson, G (ed.), Graphic Design and Reading, Allworth Press, 2000.
White, A, The Elements of Graphic Design, Allworth Press, New York, 2002.