Design & Communication Graphics

DESIGN AND COMMUNICATION GRAPHICS INTRODUCTION AND RATIONALE

The Design and Communication Graphics course makes a unique contribution to the student’s cognitive and practical skills development. These skills include graphic communication, creative problem solving, spatial abilities/visualisation, design capabilities, computer graphics and CAD modelling. The creative and decision-making capabilities of students in the activities associated with design are developed through three principal areas of study: design and communication graphics, plane and descriptive geometries, and applied graphics. This programme is designed and structured to take cognisance of important developments in the modes of communicating design information. It is intended to develop the creative thinking and problem solving abilities of students.

Aims

• to develop the cognitive and practical skills associated with communication graphics, problem solving and critical thinking
• to develop the capacity and ability of students in the area of visuo-spatial reasoning
• to provide a learning environment where students can plan, organise and present appropriate design solutions using a variety of skills, techniques and media
• to provide a basis for lifelong learning

• to develop an appreciation for, and understanding of, aesthetic principles and their importance in design and the human environment

Objectives

• able to utilise freehand sketching, both two and three dimensional, as a means of communication and as an aid to spatial reasoning and refinement
• able to utilise a variety of rendering and presentation techniques in the solution of graphic design problems, in both two and three dimensions
• competent and confident in the application of CAD and other appropriate Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in the solution, modelling and presentation of graphic design solutions, in two and three dimensions
• able to interpret verbal, written and mathematical information, and to represent it graphically
• able to evaluate design solutions and solve design problems on the basis of sound aesthetic principles and to appreciate the impact of design on the visual quality of the human environment
• appreciative of the broad vocational relevance of Design and Communication Graphics

Assessment Components

The syllabus will be assessed in relation to the syllabus objectives and the specified student learning outcomes. All material specified within the areas of study is examinable. There are two assessment components:

1. A student assignment (40% of the examination marks, of which CAD will form a significant and compulsory component)
2. A terminal examination paper (60% of the examination marks)

Student Assignment

The purpose of the assignment is to assess those elements of the course that cannot be readily assessed through the terminal examination, in particular elements of design and communication graphics and the utilisation of ICT in design. The assignment will relate to a theme identified by the examining authority. A different theme will apply at Higher and Ordinary levels. Students must then proceed to develop a design or project brief in accordance with specified parameters. The assignment will take approximately 40 hours to complete.