Design History and Theory 2

This module will introduce the learner to theories and artefacts of Modern design from the Industrial revolution to the late twentieth century. The objects and theories of modern design will be explored in their social, economic, cultural and historic contexts. The module will explore the history of leading design movements and profile the work of designers and theoreticians linked to these movements. Developments in new materials, technologies and techniques and their impact on design will be integral to the lecture series. The processes of innovation and entrepreneurship in key designers' contributions to design history will also be considered, as will the legacy and impact of their work on contemporary design.

The Design History & Theory 2 Lectures will draw on a range of styles and examples from Western European and International design with a view to giving learners a strong foundation, informing them of the breadth of research possibilities within the discipline. This module will provide a consolidation of learning from Design History & Theory 1 and aims to develop learners' independent, critical analysis of objects. Learners will advance their skills in evaluation, discussion and writing about artefacts; to empower further study in the discipline and ultimately to assist their own development as designers.

A range of links to GMIT library resources, audio visual materials, activities and discussion forums will be available to module participants on the GMIT virtual learning environment, Moodle.

1. 1. Write and present clearly articulated, factually supported critical reflections on a topic from the lecture series employing academic methods of research and citation.
2. • Comprehend and employ a wide ranging vocabulary to articulate verbal and written analysis of works of design and how they exemplify the theoretical principles of their associated stylistic movements.
3. • Determine a range of criteria useful in the evaluation of design considering the relationship between theoretical concepts, aesthetic forms and utilitarian functions in the analysis of objects.
4. • Distinguish between historic movements and styles and identify their key characteristics and consider the theroetical ideologies of these movements.
5. • Demonstrate an ability to identify key objects of design from the lecture series with factual historic information pertaining to the production, form and function of the artefacts.