Module: IDE5002-20 Professional Context 2: Work Experience

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Elys John

Module Tutor Contact Details: e.john2@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

The Professional Context modules are focused on the professional world. This module presents you with an opportunity to undertake a period of self-initiated work experience at the end of semester 1, or to produce a plan for a year-long work placement following completion of Level 5 (See Module YP5100-120 Professional Placement Year).

You will be supported through seminars to present and communicate your skills and experience to employers, and initiate opportunities with organisations and individuals. You will be required to follow university guidelines on work placements and exhibitions.

The module also aims to enable you to build on your knowledge of contemporary designers to develop knowledge of key issues in contemporary interior design, for example sustainability, environment and heritage.

2.Outline syllabus:

You will be asked to gather information to study and reflect upon potential employer opportunities focusing on their different approaches to design, including their standpoint on ethical, social and sustainable perspectives on design.

Work Experience

This part of module gives you experience of the challenges of work experience, which might be either

• Finding and carrying out a 2-week period of employment in a design studio,

• Taking part in an exhibition opportunity at an appropriate professional venue.

OR

• Preparing for a year-long work placement carried out through module YP5100-120 Professional Placement Year

This will also include ‘how to present yourself’, preparing a CV, job application letters, and preparing a professional portfolio for presentation to potential employers.

3.Teaching and learning activities:

This is a seminar based module which will usually include:

• Staff & Student presentations

• Record keeping, documentation and display of tasks completed

• Independent working

• Group discussion, critique and peer review

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Coursework

• Description: Presentation to the group on your work experience, attendance and participation in the seminar discussions

• % Weighting: 30%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Coursework

• Description: llustrated report (1,000 words approx.) documenting and reflecting on your work experience OR A report documenting research and preparation leading to application or placement year

• % Weighting: 70%