XD6007 - Research Project & Prototype

You will be expected to learn on this module through independent study focused on the topic you have selected and the technologies and user research methods you will be employing to realise your prototype.

Learning will also be supported through group learning activities, group tutorials and individual tutorials in the studio.

Studio-based learning activities will provide you with support and feedback during the module and will aim to deliver constructive feedback from tutors and your peers in support of your iterative design and research process.

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:

LO 1. Demonstrate critical engagement with contemporary issues and ideas and processes which affect current and emerging digital design practices.(KU1)

LO 2. Show expertise in the skilled use of applications, tools, methods and production process to professional standards (Theory into practice) (KU3)

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:

LO 3. Exhibit judgement and strategy in the selection and application of design approaches, research and development methods throughout all stages of the design process (Theory into practice).
(IPSA1)

LO 4. Create artefacts or prototypes using interdisciplinary tools that showcase your advanced skill set. (ISPA2)

You will be assessed on the submission of the following individual elements.

Research Document (50%): either an Extended design document outlining the research leading to the development of your Prototype OR a Dissertation paper that covers a topic related to your chosen technology for your Prototype.
MLOs 1, 2, 5


Research Prototype (50%) : a mock-up of your design solution –presented as a video walk-through
MLO 2, 3, 4

Formative feedback will be given throughout the module culminating in a final presentation prior to final portfolio submission.

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Building upon the foundations of the learning from the first two years of study, this module provides you with the opportunity to self-generate a brief or challenge based around a chosen area of specialisation or theme from across Digital Design and pursue an area of enquiry which may be further expanded on in the in the Final Project module.

You will use design methods and processes (learnt in the previous years) to investigate a chosen theme (to be agreed with the tutors) and from its findings generate a piece of research and a design prototype which addresses your theme: e.g. could potentially enhance and /or extend the boundaries of a technology

The module gives you an opportunity to hone your prior learning, synthesize your skills to create human-centered and / or planet-centred proposals, which not only develop deeper understanding of an area specialization, from across Digital Design , but help you refine your own identity as a Digital Designer.

The outcomes of your investigation into your chosen theme will be communicated via the delivery of a written submission and a mock-up prototype or design artefact. Your written research will be delivered either an Extended Design Document (Pictorial) OR to a Dissertation on an area related to your topic. A mock-up prototype or design artefact will be a visual, tangible manifestation of a potential solution, direction or outcome in response to your topic. These may form the foundation for further development during your final project module (although this is optional) which would give an extended amount of time to refine, develop and enhance the direction you have established during this phase of work.