1 Semester

36 hours per Semester

Prahran

Nil

Nil

Credit Points: 12.5 Credit Points

Related Course/s:

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.   Participants are expected to attend all seminars and present to the group.

Assessment:

100% project work.   Assessable work comprises relevant design deliverables, documented evidence of contextual research, concept development, design process and rationale, plus the appropriate application of software.  Project briefs clearly define conceptual paratmeters, detail design deliverables, assessment criteria, presentation formats and due dates but participatns are responsible for actively participating in this process to develop independently conceived projects and a sound understanding of assessment requirements.  Formative feedback is given throughout the semester to allow participants to develop their work for final submission.  Assessment occurs at the end of the semester and is based on the submission of a body of design work as specified in project briefs.

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.