DE3004 - Major Design Project

On this module, you will learn through hands-on practice, applying theory to both real-world and speculative design scenarios. The focus is on developing a learning mindset, encouraging you to explore independently and approach challenges with curiosity, rather than simply following a predefined set of knowledge.

You will engage in enquiry-based learning, where problem-solving is at the core of your activities. This flexible and imaginative approach helps you integrate design practice with academic and intellectual skills. You will be encouraged to participate in discussions, collaborate with peers, provide feedback, and present or exhibit your work in cooperative learning settings.

In addition to face to face teaching you will be supported through the eLearning Portal, where you can access all relevant materials, including module briefs, lecture notes, and assessment guidelines. This supports your independent learning, allowing you to engage with the content outside of structured sessions.
By combining practical, reflective, and collaborative learning strategies, you will become an active participant in your education, enhancing both your design abilities and critical thinking skills.

The school operates an extended studio approach (X-Studio), combining physical studios, making workshops, and virtual spaces to create a flexible and responsive environment. Each design challenge begins with an introductory lecture outlining themes and learning outcomes, followed by staged interim critiques where you'll receive valuable feedback. Formative assessments will help manage your workload and apply feedback before final assessments.

Learning materials, including module documentation, presentations, and reading lists, are accessible via the eLearning Portal, with additional support available through Skills Plus workshops and Academic Language Skills (ALS) for international students. Module tutors will guide taught sessions and offer consultation hours for further feedback.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

Knowledge & Understanding:
• Understand the role of research in design, utilising it to inform the development of design concepts and solutions.
• Recognise and apply human-centred and sustainable design principles in project work.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• Independently generate ideas and prototypes that address design challenges.
• Demonstrate a capacity for independent learning and time management.

Personal Values Attributes:

• Critically reflect on personal design work, identifying strengths and areas for improvement.

Formative Assessment:
You will be assessed formatively, using verbal feedback during timetabled sessions at key stages of the design development process.

Formal formative feedback:
Formal formative tutorials and interim sessions will provide feedback and informally record academic progress.

Summative assessment:
Summative assessment will be used for grading of the final submissions and will be formally recorded and will be based upon a final visual presentation material.

N/A

N/A

This capstone module offers you the opportunity to explore one of four design disciplines, communication design, interior design, product design, or fashion design, through an independent, self-directed project. Building on the skills and knowledge gained throughout the foundation year, you will engage in a complete design process, from research and concept development to final realisation. The module encourages enquiry-based research, critical thinking, and creative experimentation, helping you refine your practice.

You will work on a design brief, develop solutions, and present your outcomes in various formats, receiving feedback from tutors and peers to improve your work. The module is designed to challenge you to take ownership of your learning, demonstrate your conceptual and practical design abilities, and prepare for further study in your chosen discipline.