DE6006 - Critical Design Evaluation

What will I learn on this module?

This module is designed to prepare and enable you to produce a Critical Design Evaluation document for the Major Design Study (DE6005). It represents the culmination and consolidation of your work within the theoretical studies area. The intention is to exemplify your comprehension of the application of design theory in practice. The content and the exact nature of the practices used in the formulation of the document will be determined by the subject matter tackled in the self-initiated Major Design Study.

The module includes a series of professional practice lectures and seminars delivered by both academic staff and specialist external speakers providing a ‘real world’ backdrop to the activities in this module and encouraging an engagement with outside agencies in both the creation and evaluation of the Major Design Study. Taught sessions help place your skills and abilities in a broader context of employment and/or further study. You will learn to explore and reflect upon your own values and be encouraged to act with boldness and professional confidence.

How will I learn on this module?

This module runs alongside DE6005 Major Design Study - the content of which contributes material for the required document. The planning and drafting process inherent in the way this module is taught and supervised encourages on-going reflection and critical analysis not just of the structure of document but the nature of your post graduate/ professional apirations. You will learn by evaluating your actions and articulating thoughtful responses to the feedback you get along the way.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

This module is supported by tutor-led seminar groups, peer review sessions and one-to-one tutorials with an allocated supervisor.

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.

The module is supported by a specific virtual learning environment ((eLearning Portal) where you will find all the relevant documentation (module brief, module guide, assessment requirements etc.) The digital submission of interim works for tutorial guidance and formative assessment allows for expedient communication and the effective review of work whilst also utilising industry standard practices

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 a contextual understanding of personal practice in relation to broader cultural socio-economic and political contexts through content of the Critical Evaluation document.3
? Account for your concepts with reasoned judgement through the content of the Critical Design Evaluation 3.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:

? Evidence an assured approach to written project work through the writing style, structure and content of the Critical Design Evaluation document 4.

Personal Values Attributes:

? Independently and critically apply decision-making; exercise self-criticism; and evaluate your own progress as evidenced through the account of the design process in the content of the Critical Design Evaluation 3.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment will be conducted through;

Regular staged Tutorials with an allocated supervisor provide formative feedback as part of the learning and teaching strategy of the module.

The module is summatively assessed via the submission of the Critical Design Evaluation at the end of the second semester. The Critical Design Evaluation is a substantial illustrated report, it’s purpose; to produce a reflective account of the skills, knowledge and understanding acquired as a student of 3d Design.


Summative feedback is provided at the end of the semester and is made in the context of a holistic review of the final year student’s performance.

Pre-requisite(s)

N/A

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

This module is designed to prepare and enable you to produce a Critical Design Evaluation document. It represents the culmination and consolidation of your work within the theoretical studies area. The Critical Design Evaluation is a substantial illustrated report, its purpose; to produce a structured, coherent account of the research and design processes adopted in the Major Design Study.

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

Fee Information

Module Information

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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