Histories and Theories of Graphic Communication

Learning Outcomes

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Test ideas through critical reflection using a variety of physical and digital sources

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Identify strengths and weaknesses in your academic skills

Subject Specific Practical Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Use a range of appropriate practical and digital tools, platforms, and applications in the development of project work

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• Ideas, objects, theories and makers that have informed the discipline in a global context

Indicative content for this module includes:

Through lectures, seminars and discussion groups you will be introduced to the key ideas and concepts that have contributed to the development of Graphic Communication culturally and historically such as modernism and post-modernism.

You will then be encouraged to contextualise these ideas by developing your research further through utilising the learning resources provided by the University. You will experience introductory sessions which will demonstrate recognised academic research approaches.

You will attend sessions where you will be asked to respond to a series of questions that will utilise relevant written and visual material. Written and practical visual responses will evidence your developing research skills, your understanding of historical contexts and how this influences the contemporary context of Graphic Communication.

Teaching and learning methods

Teaching methods include:

• Project Briefings
• Group tutorials and discussions
• One-to-one tutorials
• Critical Reviews
• Creative workshops
• Visual presentations

Learning activities include:

• Research and concept development workshops
• Creative workshops
• School resource based learning
• Seminars
• Peer group learning
• Group critiques
• Self-assessment

Resources & Reading list

Textbooks

Francis, Pat (2013). Inspiring Writing in Art and Design: Taking a Line for a Write. Chicago: 4.

Eskilson , S (2019). Graphic Design: A History. London: Laurence King Publishing.

Armstrong, H. (2009). Graphic Design Theory: Readings From The Field. Princeton Architectural Press.

Formative

This is how we’ll give you feedback as you are learning. It is not a formal test or exam.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Repeat

An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.