Module manager: Yuchan Zhang
Email: Y.Zhang15@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
| DESN1260 | Design Studies: Foundation |
DESN1666 Visual Communication
This module is not approved as a discovery module
The module provides students with a foundational understanding of visual communication design principles. It involves the practical application of communication and digital skills in response to a range of design challenges. It will also highlight key issues related to digital image quality and reproduction as well as idea generation, evaluation, and application. The module also prepares students in the use of industry-standard design software.
This module aims to equip students with knowledge of visual communication principles as well as skills in ideation and prototyping.
The objectives are to 1) introduce fundamental concepts of visual communication including type selection, use of image, colour, image quality, reproduction and layout as it relates to the art, graphics and the fashion industry 2) provide key skills in the use of industry-standard design software 3) support students to generate and evaluate a range of ideas in response to a series of creative challenges.
Learning activities are varied. To achieve objective 1, students will produce and evaluate visual communication outcomes informed by a series of practical workshops and lectures. To achieve objective 2, practical workshops and learning support material will demonstrate how best to use relevant design software. To achieve objective 3, students will work in groups and independently to generate and communicate a range of ideas as informed by a series of ideation workshops.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. Express a range of diverse ideas and prototypes in response to creative challenges;
2. Demonstrate fundamental knowledge of layout, font choice and image creation principles;
3. Evaluate processes and outcomes of visual communication.
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
4. Apply technical skills in creating design outcomes
5. Apply effective communication skills to present ideas
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 6 | 1 | 6 |
| Practical | 7 | 1 | 7 |
| Seminar | 6 | 2 | 12 |
| Independent online learning hours | 25 | ||
| Private study hours | 150 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 25 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Formative feedback will be provided at several points during the term within selected seminar and practical sessions. Students will receive feedback in small groups through tutor guidance and peer discussion to support engagement and learning.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Portfolio | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 29/05/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team