DES509-assessment and feedback

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

The module is assessed as 100% Coursework. Qualitative feedback is provided on a continuous basis with close and direct dialogue with supervisors.

There are 4 elements to the coursework which are outlined below. Each peice of coursework is examined using an assessment matrix (linked to each coursework below) which grades work from unacceptable to outstanding. The University of Ulster assessment guidelines are used to help inform each category. Each assessment matrix maps to specific learning outcomes for this module (see module outline).

Coursework 1 (7.5%): Rationale and Brief- See assessment matrix

This is the initial presentation of the project proposal, using the Pecha Kucha format. Students will be equally assessed against two components. Firstly, their ability to following instruction in line with the Pecha Kucha deliverables and secondly, relating to the rationale of their proposals. The specific project brief approach should be clarified. This will be assessed on week one of semester. It equates to 30 hours work effort. It assesses learning outcomes K3, I2, P1, T2

Coursework 2 (65%): Design visual documentation- See assessment matrix

This is the main body of work of which is best described using the design council’s double diamond design process of Discover, Define, Develop and Deliver. Although each student, relating to discipline, will have different types of deliverables, it is expected that each of the phases of the design process are documented with visual clarity in the form of contextual notebooks, sketchbooks, developmental practice (sketchbooks and software prototypes) and careful consideration of visual narrative/communication methods of production. It equates to 260 hours work effort. It assesses learning outcomes K1, K2, K3, K4, I1, I3, I4, P2, P3, P4, T1, T4

Coursework 3 (7.5%): Reflective blog- See assessment matrix

The Reflective blog should indicate what has been learned during the project. Care should be taken that this is not just an archive of collected information. Evaluation and reflection are key, where self-critical and self-reflective abilities are demonstrated. It equates to 30 hours work effort. It assesses learning outcomes I3, T3

Coursework 4 (20%): Viva and presentation- See assessment matrix

Presentation and professional practice is important in visual communication of any design discipline. This course work will assess the general qualities of professionalism (tidiness, clarity, precision, organisation) as well as ability to visually plan the visual narrative (telling the story) of the design thinking. It involves the physical planning and presentation of artwork content (this is distinct from the quality of third party production or materials used). It involves a viva presentation in front of a panel of design staff, followed by a question and answers forum. Work must be physically presented in advance of the presentations. This equates to 80 hours work effort. It assesses learning outcomes K3, I1, I2, I3, I4, P2, P4, T1, T2, T4

 

FEEDBACK

Feedback is provided on a one to one basis or in small seminar groups each week with supervisors. Feedback may take the form of verbal, written, or demonstration using practical methods manually or digitally.

Critiques will be conducted on 3 occasions during the semester, with the entire final year group. They take the form of ‘designer roulette’, that is, all students will be expected to be prepared for the presentation but a small cohort will be selected randomly to present. The wider group are expected to challenge and probe the design content in a detailed way providing high quality peer feedback for the presenter.

These are mandatory. Non attendance without EC1 will be noted and considered against learning outcomes I2 and T2.  

 

SCHEDULE

All students should regularly review the following timetable and blog for module updates or opportunities.