2026/27 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

DESN1016 Process, Making and Meaning

40 Credits Class Size: 50

Module manager: Kenneth Feinstein
Email: K.A.Feinstein@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2026/27

Module replaces

Creative Practice 1A DESN 1447 Creative Practice 1B DESN 1448

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

This module introduces you to the processes of research, design thinking, visualisation, experimentation, development and delivery of images, artefacts and objects integral to contemporary art and design practice. You will explore a selection of 2D, 3D, 4D, craft, industrial and digital making processes available within the School of Design. You will reflect upon the meaning of creative choices and strategies in response to current art and design challenges and critical debates through visual and written research.

Objectives

The objective of this module is to introduce students to a range of visual research methods, generative, iterative and experimental approaches to both ideas and material processes as a way of responding to creative contemporary Art and Design Challenges. The module provides a framework to help students breakdown the complex processes of research and making, to develop meaningful creative responses.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. identify relevant research resources to inform the generation of a range of ideas in response to creative practice
2. express concepts, arguments and outcomes in a variety of forms informed by contemporary Art and Design practice and theory.

Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
3. implement design thinking skills to develop an experimental approach for the delivery of art and design outcomes.
4. apply reiterative practical skills and knowledge to prototype and make Art and Design outcomes in response to a project brief.
5. Reflect on the process and outcome from a variety of perspectives.

Syllabus

Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module

Teaching Methods

Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours
Lecture 4 1 4
Practical 22 4 88
Seminar 7 1 7
Private study hours 301
Total Contact hours 99
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 400

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Students’ work will be presented to tutors during weekly practical studio sessions providing students with the opportunity to ask for formative guidance.
The module will have a mid-stage monitoring process which will involve peer-review and tutor feedback on semester 1 work.
The module will consist of a series of mini projects that include formative feedback opportunities such as peer-review, group critique and dialogues.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework
Assessment type Notes % of formal assessment
Portfolio Integrated (digital) portfolio 100
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) 100

Coursework will be presented as a series of mini projects which include formative assessment events such as peer review, group critique and dialogues.

Reading List

Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list

Last updated: 30/04/2026

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team