MDS5022 - Design theory workshop

Leader(s): Dr Karen Burns

Offered

Caulfield First semester 2009 (Day)
Caulfield Second semester 2009 (Day)

Synopsis

To meet the cultural and social objectives of the studio research, this methodologically-orientated unit assists research graduates in developing the design project and reflecting critically and analytically upon its aspirations. The unit helps the design researcher outline the relationship between goals and methods, the unit develops skills of expression needed to take part in contemporary discourse in art and design, connecting philosophies of design with broader cultural issues, values and artistic developments.

Objectives

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to

1. express and interrogate the intentions of their design project, submitting it to critical scrutiny and either defending it or modifying it in the light of cultural, social or technical criticism;
2. evaluate the chosen methods by technical, social, aesthetic, environmental, functional and symbolic criteria;
3. develop strategies for identifying key directions in the field and for positioning their work relative to the state of the art;
4. develop the language for advocating the aesthetic, symbolic and ideological relevance of their work;
5. make tangible progress in developing their documentation for the degree

Assessment

Assignment 1 (1500 words): 25%

Assignment 2 (3500 words): 75%

Contact hours

2 hour seminar and 10 independent study hours per week

Prerequisites

MDS5031 or ADM5001

Co-requisites

Enrolment in 3111

Prohibitions

ADM5002