Product Design MA

On this module you will be encouraged to explore how different research methods underpin all kinds of creative practices. The module introduces you to current research themes in art and design. In the past we have explored topics such as: developing concepts through thinking and making, using archives in creative practice, working with objects of material culture, analysing digital transformations, practising psychogeography in the urban environment, tackling the anthropocene and environmental issues of the twenty-first century. As thinkers and practitioners you will work to develop an understanding of the different research approaches you might design and use to enhance and transform your ideas. You will be introduced to a range of practice-led research methods which may include: creative and design thinking, user-centered methods, practice-led approaches, cultural analysis, historical/archival research and market-driven data capture and analysis. The module helps to equip you with a tool kit of research skills to guide you in the development of a project proposal or working brief for your Master's study. The module is made up of lectures, guided seminars and small group tutorials which will support you in building a solid foundation to lead you through your studies.

This module aims to introduce you to key features of innovation and entrepreneurship within the context of the cultural and creative industries. Depending on your future aspirations we will help you to build your knowledge and understanding of different approaches to creative innovation (social, ethical and sustainable aspects), provide guidance on business start-ups, and assist you in your professional skills development (commercial awareness, self-management, problem-solving, team working, communication strategies), including searching for marketing, promotion, consultancy and funding opportunities specific to your subject. The module involves lectures, seminars and practical projects where you will experiment with the tools and techniques of creative innovation. There will be opportunities for group projects and cross-disciplinary working on this module.

This module enables you to explore a range of advanced creative concepts and practices across Art and Design working alongside other students in a mixed-discipline cohort encompassing Art and Communication, 3D Design and Fashion and Textiles. You will identify starting points for your studio practice through supported and scheduled access and interaction with a range of specialist workshop facilities and digital making processes which in turn inform the potential of material investigation as a core part of your refocused enquiry-led practice. The module comprises three discrete but interlinked phases of development: Conceptual Direction, Creative Contexts, Critical Processes.

Working alongside other students within 3D Design, this module is intended to prepare you for the practical application of advanced digital capture and manipulation technology as well as the techniques of visualisation and immersive representation. As 3D design utilises more immersive forms of product development and testing it is vital that designers are familiar with advanced techniques that facilitate the integration of fully digital workflow through the use of virtual and augmented capabilities. The module will utilise the advanced digital capture and visualisation technologies available within the Department utilising 3D scanning, photogrammetry, motion capture, 3d modelling software and the CAVE. It will examine various approaches to the capture and manipulation of real-world data within a virtual / augmented environment and look at how these can be manipulated as part of a wider design strategy. Specialising in your chosen area of practice, you will work to develop personal interests through the acquisition of advanced skills in design software, fabrication and representation that will further enhance your abilities as a 3D designer.

The Major Project is the culmination of your research and development in Product Design. In this module you will undertake a comprehensive design project of your own choice that must be at a level of complexity and depth of resolution comparable to that which pertains in advanced contemporary practice. The Major Project addresses critical issues relating to contemporary Product Design. It is a focused interrogation of technological, theoretical and design contexts and manufacturing processes relevant to the Product Design subject area. The Major Project provides an opportunity for in-depth research into your area of interest and the development of design methods and processes that support this. You will have the opportunity to research, develop, critically reflect, refine and communicate both your methodological approach, design outcomes and your conclusions.