Module: HAC5104-20 Furniture and Product Design Contemporary Issues and Practice

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Rachel Evans

Module Tutor Contact Details: r.evans3@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module focuses on the role and agency of Furniture and Product Design within contemporary visual and material culture. It reflects on how the creative practice of furniture and product design engages with, responds to, and sometimes challenges, the norms, values and expectations at work in our society. The module aims for you to engage with key issues and their significance to both design practice and consumption. You will develop and enhance your critical, analytical, and research skills.

2.Outline syllabus:

This module considers contemporary debates and issues that pertain to furniture and product design practice and the creative industries more broadly. Moving beyond commercial success and aesthetic values we will explore, and reflect on the significance of, such issues as sustainability, ethical design practice, social enterprise and environmental practices in terms of how they impact on, and what they demand of, design. We will also consider local and global implications and contexts.

3.Teaching and learning activities:

Teaching is by lectures, seminars and workshop sessions. Students are encouraged to develop independent and collaborative learning skills, and the confidence to contribute to debates and discussions through set preparation for seminars, formative tasks, the devising of appropriate essay subjects and the identification of associated research.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Portfolio

• % Weighting: 30%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Essay - 3500 words

• % Weighting: 70%