Module: PFD5002-40 Personal and Professional Practice

Level: 5

Credit Value: 40

Module Tutor:  Erin Deighton

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

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module presents you with an opportunity to further develop and externalise your personal practice through a self-directed project, and to undertake work experience or plan for a year-long work placement.

In this part of Personal and Professional Practice you will undertake research into current design practice, in order to identify specific areas of interest and potential opportunities. You will be supported through a programme of seminars and workshops to present and communicate your skills and experience to employers, and initiate opportunities with organisations and individuals. You will follow university guidelines on work placements and exhibitions, keep a journal and present an evaluative visual report.

2.Outline syllabus:

Self-directed project:

The module supports you in writing a brief to frame a potentially rich and achievable project. You will be encouraged to take creative risks, to experiment within a self-defined context, and explore your design identity. You may be offered possible routes or industry briefs. Your project will inform the decisions you make in developing your final year critical and practice-based projects, even if you change direction later on. You are encouraged to consider your standpoint on ethical, social and sustainable perspectives on design.

Work experience:

This part of module gives you experience of the challenges of gaining employment or creating career opportunities. You have the option of either:

• Identifying and carrying out a 2-week period of work experience, or an exhibition opportunity at an appropriate professional venue.           

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

3.Teaching and learning activities:

Will usually include:

• Staff presentations and brief writing workshops             

• Group and individual tutorials and critical reviews

• Supported workshop engagement

• Study trips and / or gallery visits                          

• Personal presentation, display and documentation of work       

• Independent working on directed project work                           

• Active participation in taught sessions and directed learning

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Portfolio

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: A visual and textual report OR Placement research document

• % Weighting: 50%