What will I learn on this module?
This module is made up of 3 components that introduce students to the theories and principles that underpin the conception, manufacture and use of man-made objects. By studying the role of the designer, understanding the role of the end-user and the technologies that contribute to the making and use of artefacts the intention is to increase your awareness and sensitivity to the qualities of the world around you.
The Designer introduces you to the complex nature of design processes and the designer’s place within them. This component encourages you from the outset of your studies to develop critical judgement of your own work and the work of others. The component encourages you to understand your role and responsibilities in professional design practice. You will be urged to reflect upon and manage your own learning and development as a design practitioner.
The User introduces the study of ergonomics and human factors and theories of material culture. Lectures and seminars place the use and consumption of designed products in the wider context of contemporary life. You are encouraged to consider things not as objects which are ‘finished’ once they have been manufactured, but as artefacts which go on to form the backdrop and props for everyday life.
Their Technologies is a component that uses lecture and seminar teaching to build your knowledge of a range of manufacturing processes and explores how technology can drive innovative practice. Factory visits; guest speakers and case studies introduce you to the social, environmental and economic complexities of material use.
How will I learn on this module?
The teaching and learning strategy for this module is to combine tutor-led lecture and seminar based learning with group work, debate and field-work. The component assignments will draw upon the research methodologies and analysis skills introduced and practiced in the formally taught sessions. Assignments will be supported by individual and group tutorials.
The three components of this module combine to form a rich backdrop against which you can begin to understand the both the principles and theories of 3d design practice. The Designer component takes an overview of design practice (and of the other two components within this module) and asks you to investigate and consider issues effecting how the practitioner engages with and reflects upon both the production and consumption of goods for use in the wider world.
Small group and individual tutorials encourage active participation and dialogue around your own enquiry, as well as providing an opportunity to discuss and clarify learning and assessment.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
This module is supported by specialist component tutors both within the formally taught timetabled sessions and via the tutorials that underpin the work requirements of each component. Module contact time provides the opportunity for you to receive on-going tutor and peer feedback and to use the views of others in the development or enhancement of your work. This is also an opportunity to clarify issues and discuss assessment criteria.
Tutor Guided Independent Learning/Student Independent Learning will help you start to make constructive use of feedback received in class, and to take responsibility to direct your own learning needs. Such learning may include a range of activities such as contextual reading.
The module has a specific virtual learning environment (eLearning Portal (eLP)) which acts as resource where you can access all the relevant documentation including module briefs and guides, lecture notes, presentations and assessment requirements. The eLP also provides access to Turnitin® for electronic submission of written assignments.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
On successful completion of this module, you should be able to:
Knowledge & Understanding:
? Demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of design research methodologies through investigations of the world around you.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
? Identify, review and discuss design related issues or topics in a scholarly manner as evidenced through your response to a contextual studies question.
? Evidence awareness of writing styles, structure and content through written work.
Personal Value attributes
? Evidence your communication skills in project work through one or more of the following channels; written, visual, oral.
How will I be assessed?
In The Designer you will be summatively assessed via the delivery of a presentation (semester 1, 10%) and the submission of a written assignment (semester 2, 30%). KU2, PVA4. The component represents 40%.
In The User you will be summatively assessed via the submission of 2 written assignments (semester 1, 20%, semester 2, 20%). IPSA 1, PVA 4. The component represents 40%.
In Their Technologies you will be summatively assessed via the submission of a written assignment (semester 1, 20%). IPSA 1, PVA 4. The component represents 20%.
Feedback is written upon completion of each assignment and supported by an end year tutorial reviewing the module.
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
This module is made up of 3 components 1. The Designer, 2. The User and 3. Their Technologies . The module introduces students to the theories and principles that underpin the conception, manufacture and use of man-made objects. By studying the role of the designer, understanding the role of the end-user and the technologies that contribute to the making and use of artefacts the intention is to increase the students’ awareness and sensitivity to the qualities of the world around them.
Course info
UCAS Code W265
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Northumbria School of Design, Arts and Creative Industries
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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