YEAR 1 // SEMESTER ONE

Information Technology [COM145J1]

Rationale
This module provides experience in the use of a range of applications, computing equipment, operating systems and network facilities available.

With these generic IT skills the student will be able to solve design problems using the available technologies. It addresses the specific course objectives of being familiar with computer applications used in the modern industrial world and acquiring such understanding of the basic principles that an appreciation of future developments will be facilitated.

Assignment(s)
This involved a group project involving the analysis of a specific problem and presenting the results in various formats - an oral presentation (with PowerPoint slides), a printed report, web page application, and through video.

Programme(s) Used: Microsoft Access; Microsoft PowerPoint; Micosoft Word; HTML; JavaScript; Adobe Premier 6

Introduction to Multimedia [COM149J1]

Rationale
This module was developed in response to industry demand for preparing students with multimedia authoring skills. It is an introduction to fundamental multimedia concepts, in particular, experience of using multimedia authoring software, developing both practical skills and the complementary academic knowledge which facilitates the transfer of them to other multimedia authoring packages.

Assignment(s)
Coursework 1: This involved hand-typing HTML code to create a small set of web pages using basic HTML tags.

Coursework 2: This involved creating an animated website, based upon an interest, using Macromedia Flash 5.

Programme(s) Used: HTML; Macromedia Flash 5; Adobe Photoshop 6

Introduction to Communication Design [DES106J1]

Rationale
This module was developed to teach students the basics of communication design, one of the core requirements when it comes to interactive multimedia design.

Assignment(s)
A set of PowerPoint presentations tackling different Communication Design problems.

  • Assignment 1: Good design VS bad design
  • Assignment 2: Creating an icon to represent the IMD course
  • Assignment 3: Set of creens, based upon and done in the
        style of an interest
  • Assignment 4: Visual tutorial on how to use an ATM
  • Assignment 5: Understanding and using precise elements in
        design (London Underground)

Programme(s) Used: Microsoft PowerPoint; Adobe Photoshop 6

 

YEAR 1 // SEMESTER TWO

Introduction to Databases [COM147J2]

Rationale
Flexible and efficient storage and retrieval of large amounts of data is central to the functioning of modern information systems. This module is devoted to the study of design, construction and use of such databases.

To convey the need for a disciplined and integrated approach - the database approach - to the storage and retrieval of large amounts of data and to convey the range of tasks associated with the creation and management of a relational database. This will be underpinned by a series of practical exercises culminating in the creation of a miniature DBMS which will reinforce the fundamentals of data modelling and database design, construction, management and use and give students some experience in using a commercial database management system.

Assignment(s)
Design & implementation in MS Access of a database.

Programme(s) Used: Microsoft Access

Systems Analysis and Design [COM144J2]

Rationale
Learning Systems Analysis and Design methods to aid planning a number of different forms of computer project.

Assignment(s)
Creating a number of SAD diagrams for different forms of computer projects.

Imaging [DES107J2]

Rationale
This module is all about understanding and creating images. Images are an essential part of the toolbox of a potential designer. Everything created for screens could be called an image either individually or collectively and as such will be "read" by the consumer as something more than just physical shapes and colours.

This module extends the image array to include still and moving images from live and animated sources. To use these effectively we must learn how to conceive, create and apply images and type which are constructed to deliver specific information to specific user groups in the most efficient way. This will require sustained and careful observation of a wide range of visual situations, deconstruction of the images to appreciate sequencing, timing and art direction and selective use of of these elements to create our own images. The module will focus upon the systems, forms of application and a critical evaluative approach to creating managed communication statements.

Aims

  • To increase your awareness of how imaging is used in designed material
  • To inform you about the different methods of producing still and video material
  • To help you develop critical and practical skills in using the image
  • To create awareness of narrative, sequence and the characteristics of still and moving images
  • To inform you about capture methods and their limitations
  • To develop an ability to interpret concept through the storyboard

Assignment(s)
Coursework 1: Produce two “sites” which represent their titles in their visual characterisation and construction. Each site should be the quintessential representation of it’s title and use photography, typography and layout in a creative way to give each an individual character and appearance. These sites are to be created using Macromedia Flash 5.

The title of “site” one is: - ORDER. The title of “site” two is: - CHAOS.

Coursework 2 : Using Adobe Premier or iMovie, we were to produce a short movie based around the idea of 'A Meeting Place'. The movie must be storyboarded before shooting.

Programme(s) Used: Macromedia Flash 5; Adobe Photoshop 6; Adobe Premier 6; digital videoing; digital photography