Start Date between May 23 - Mar 24

This module will introduce the fundamental knowledge of what research is and what research could be done in, with and for design. Through literature and case studies, students will explore and investigate the processes and methods to successfully research digital design and communication-related issues. By completing this module, students will establish an awareness of using research to develop, enhance and evaluate effective design solutions.

This module will introduce students to the main theories and principles of human-centred design at an advanced level. The main aim of this module is to enable students to work towards actively creating usable design solutions. Since it is essential to ensure that digital design/communication solutions fit certain users’ needs, this module will put the user at the centre of the design process. In the light of design thinking techniques, students will be able to analyse and understand the design needs of a specific audience. Through individual and group reflective practices, students will learn collecting and analysing data, generating creative ideas as well as applying usability testing to evaluate design concepts and solutions. Some project choices could be from the application areas of such as human-centred design include apps and websites design, virtual reality implementations, interactive infographics, data visualization, storytelling, etc. This module builds on the teaching provided in the programme's foundation modules and should be undertaken following carousel one.

In digital design, many companies have branches in and work with clients in multiple locations. Designers are also required to work within dynamic teams and with stakeholders online. This module responds to these increasing needs by allowing groups of students to experience an industry reflective virtual working environment to explore the practical aspects of digital communication in group settings through computer-supported collaborative work tools. Students will work in teams and manage relationships with team members and various stakeholders. The module will allow students to familiarise themselves with working in an online setting to communicate solutions for digital media projects. Students will need to participate and collaborate with others and respond to industry set design briefs. This module builds on the teaching provided in the programme's foundation modules and should be undertaken following carousel one.

This Research Project module provides an opportunity for students to develop, evaluate and present a design project independently, using the case study approach, on a topic of relevance to the programme. Through a case study investigation, this module builds on students’ knowledge and strengthens their independent research, creative application, and practical digital design and communication skills. The module will allow each student to choose a subject area, propose a topic and a project plan, and then apply the knowledge, skills, and creativity acquired previously to develop their projects to a high level, followed by an evaluation. Learning will be monitored at different stages.