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 explores theoretical and practical aspects of digital design and communication, from the identification of design principles to ideation, in individual settings. It will expand students' knowledge of the design thinking process in different communication design disciplines (such as graphics, information design, UX/UI). The module is divided into two main sections focusing on a) theories in design and b) design practice; Students will learn how the theoretical concepts and research outcomes inform and are applied in practice. The module will also allow students to respond to design briefs and to 1) explore different areas of design; 2) apply theoretical concepts and learn by doing, exploring and experimenting in a wide range of design areas.

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 module will help students develop speculative thinking abilities related to a given brief and apply their speculative design practice. It will introduce design principles and theories of emerging technologies for a better understanding of digital design trends and application areas. Students will learn the basics of human-computer interaction and emerging technologies such as extended reality (VR, AR, MR), haptic/tangible interfaces, gesture-based interfaces, wearable technologies, conversational user experience, and internet of things. They will then explore innovative solutions in sample scenarios. This module builds on the teaching provided in the programme's foundation modules and should be undertaken following carousel one.

Digital design is an umbrella term for any work in digital formats. It may involve digital design products, including but not limited to graphics, interactive infographics, websites, user experience, user interfaces, virtual reality and data-driven designs. Each student will choose a specialist area to explore then 1) research the problem/ design need; 2) develop ideas; 3) prototype 4) evaluate the design decisions and 5) iterate the design based on evaluation findings. Students will plan, manage, and communicate their chosen case from inception to final design solution. 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.