This module is designed for design students who wish to develop their digital skills in their practice. This module will enable students to acquire the skills and competencies to represent designs and ideas graphically using digital tools and software. Participants will develop a firm understanding of digital tools associated with their chosen design pathway. Learners will develop skills through a series of demonstrations, direct experience and focused reflection.

On completion, learners will have gained experience in navigating a range of industry standard digital tools with focused learning in their core pathways.

1. Identify professional practices and production processes for digital design

2. Recognise key theoretical principles, skills and technologies involved in the production of digital design

3. Transform analogue concepts into digital form

4. Prepare digital artwork, using a range of techniques and software, for both digital and print media

5. Apply key design principles, skills and technologiesin the production of digital designs

6. Produce a coherent body of design work using digital tools to a presentation standard

This module provides an overview of the role of design in contemporary society, and design methodologies to address the challenges faced by people and planet. Contemporary theories and principles of design including sustainable, universal and service design will be explored. Global strategies and reports pertaining to complex design problems will be referenced and innovative contemporary designers and their platforms will also be discussed.

1. Define a design problem in comprehensive terms and viewpoints.

2. Research, develop and evaluate alternative ideas and possible solutions to complex design problems

3. Write and present clearly articulated, factually supported, critical reflections on a topic from the lecture series employing academic methods of research and citation

4. Apply knowledge of design theory and principles to the analysis of case studies in both written and verbal presentations.

5. Interpret and critique the effectiveness of various design methodologies in addressing the issues that impactcontemporary society.

3D Modelmaking & Building Regulations builds on the fundamental skills, knowledge and know how attained by the learner in Design Studio 1.

This module has two distinct components- the making of sketch and presentation models and an introduction to the statuary Building rules and regulations. The former is concerned with experiencing Spatial organisation through a number of exploratory approaches such as perspective drawing and Maquette Model making. The skills and knowledge acquired give the learner insights into the challenges encountered in actuality. Materials and processes used in model-making are investigated and applied in creating three-dimensional scaled maquettes.

In the Studio learners will construct scaled models, derived from dimensioned drawings using a variety of materials, processes and techniques. These constructions will then be interpreted in a variety of 2D and digital media and from these investigations, a number of design schemes will be generated.

The schemes, which will be presented for assessment, will be analysed in terms of visual presence, appropriateness, sustainability, cost etc.

This hands-on experiential learning is invaluable in the learners' appreciation of the distinction between theory and practice.

The acquirement of skills, knowledge and know-how attained as a result the production of resolved high quality 2D, 3D and digital presentations are the focus of this module.

Other areas of study concern statutory Building and Conservation standards and Planning Regulations – Ireland, EU, best practice globally.

Site and situation- addressing the Interior within the Building and its immediate environs.

1. Create a design project proposal presentation derived from the construction and treatment of the Model, that consolidates the research and learning from the different stages of the exercise.

2. Utilise the correct processes for collatingdata generated by the design task and applying those findingsin a successful proposal.

3. Construct a correctly scaled 3Dimensional model/maquette that demonstrates an understanding of spatial organisation, surface decoration and mood lighting.

4. Create a range of visual documents of the built Model for presentation- drawing, photography, digital rendering.

5. Demonstrate an understanding of the role of building management and information systems (including the integration of \”The Internet of

Things\”)utility services and technology as they are utilised within the Interior.

6. Present project outcomes in the form of 3D models, 2D drawings and digital forms, that are increasingly sophisticated in terms of ambition, concept, imagination and presentation.

7. Demonstrate, in the form of a written report,the implications of the appropriate Building, Planning, Conservation, Energy Regulations on Design and Budget considerations.

The module explores ergonomics and human factors for product design and interior design. Students will explore various interiors sectors and related products (Healthcare, Education, Workplace, Hospitality, Leisure, Retail, Residential), and will research and apply anthropometric data to address design problems. Learners will explore case studies of evidence based design solutions, and apply to their own project work.

1. Access, interpret and apply evidence-based ergonomics and human factors research to design solutions

2. Integrate systems of form, function,colour, material, and finishin design solutions.

3. Communicate design ideas through visual, verbal and written methods

4. Evaluate and propose ergonomic interventions to existing case studies, making recommendations for further design development

Surface print design encompasses the fashioning, decoration and embellishment of a wide variety of materials potentially suitable for use in the field of fashion and textiles, accessories, homewares and interiors.

The aim of this module is to give the Learner an understanding of surface design specifically as it applies to fashion and furnishing textiles. The module introduces the Learner to the processes and technical skills necessary to research, design fabric for fashion or interior context. Studio and workshop practice exposes the Learner to the methodologies and techniques relevant to the area. The process involves research, development and project resolution phase. The Learner develops a good understanding of current trends, colour awareness and contemporary design issues. This equips the Learner with the skills necessary to create their own capsule collection of designs and samples.

1. Demonstrate an ability to observe, gather visual information, reflect, and draw conclusions.
2. Research and display an awareness and position in contemporary surfacedesign practice.

3. Demonstrate an ability to respond to a set brief by engagement in workshop process, in debate, in seminars, tutorials and critiques.
4. Express an ability to think creatively and formulate from research gathered. Respond in a creative and personal way to a set brief, working with a level of autonomy.
5. Demonstrate good workshop practice and an awareness of Health and Safety issues pertaining to textile print design practice.
6. Achieve proficient technical standards from a range of specialist skills in surface design.

7. Evaluate personal learning, process and creative outcomes and identify needs within a structured learning environment whilst developing awareness of individual strengths within a broader creative sphere.

Work Based Learners will participate in a seminar series which will develop their theoretical knowledge, writing and presentation skills, while offering them the opportunity to apply this to active learning situations.

There will be an emphasis on preparing for independent research with a focus on methodologies that can be applied towards an Extended Essay for level 7 or onwards to a level 8 dissertation if they choose to progress to the Higher level BA stage.

The Seminar Series will commence with workshops delivered that respond to current trends in design theory, practice and research.

Learners may present topics based on their experiential learning while completing their professional practice and projects module.

Delivery will be fully online to accommodate remote placement of learners throughout the year.

1. Demonstrate ability to source and critically reviewpublished literatureon design theory and case studies,themes and issues in contemporary design.

2. Synthesise a review of literature with their own critical thinkingin awritten essayfully supported with academic referencing and illustrations

3. Deliver a Seminar Presentation of their researchto peers using current online presentation tools.Actively engage peers in discussion and participate and contribute todialogue during peer seminar presentations

4. Bring previous knowledge of design history and theoryto the analysis of the consequences and impact of historic practices oncontemporary design solutions

5. Source innovative international case studies of contemporary design that exemplify current theories and best practice

6. Contributeto group discourse in the online space in which the seminar series is delivered and present both written and presentation content in an e-portfolio along with other modules from level 7.

This module is designed for design students who wish to deepen their digital skills in the context of their practice. The module builds on the competencies learned Digital Tools 1, and prepares students for implementing modern digital skills in the workplace. This module will enable students to develop the skills and competencies to represent designs and ideas graphically using digital tools and software. Participants will develop a deep understanding of digital tools associated with their chosen design discipline. Learners will develop skills through a series of demonstrations, tutorials, direct experience and focused reflection.

On completion learners will have strengthened their competency in using a range of industry standard digital tools with focused learning in their core pathways.

Product Design – This module develops the learner's use of Computer Aided Design (CAD) systems and their application for the realisation of 2 and 3 dimensional images of design concepts. It employs currently used industry-standard software and stresses the value of computer based visual data to professional designers, particularly in respect to the speed of producing or updating visualisations, drawings, models and to their communication.

1. Recognise the relationships between design technology,production,the individual, society and the environmentwithin contemporary design practices.

2. Select appropriate techniques and software to transpose design ideas into digital form and environments.

3. Express solutions in response to scenarios through problem solving, experimentation and testing ideas within the digital environment.

4. Apply the features of design software to implement geometric concepts and principles.

5. Generate enhanced visualisations ofdesign conceptsusing industry-standardsoftware.

6. Prepare technical drawings and specifications in accordance with relevant standards.

7. Compose multimedia presentations which clearly express design information and embody design intentions.

This module normally involves a year long professional practice and/or project a design company, department or other organisation involved in design. Learners combine experience in the day-to-day operations of the organisation with projects selected to enhance the learners skills and provide benefits to the organisation. Some learners may be based on campus while carrying out their professional practice work. Learners can complete 26 weeks focused on an industry project or professional placement, or can complete a semester long project and a semester long professional practice.

1. Work as productive member of a team in a design company, department or other organisation involved in design.
2. Apply learning, working as a professional in the design sector
3. Analyse and solve real-world problems
4. Develop professional practice in project work – quality, deadlines, budgets etc.

This module involves a semester-long professional project (or projects) in a design discipline to be undertaken on campus. The project will provide learners with practical, hands-on experience with projects selected to enhance the learner's skills and problem-solving abilities to address real challenges and produce tangible outcomes. Undertaking professional projects on campus aims to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and real-world application by immersing students in a simulated professional design project setting.

1. Work independently or collaboratively towards the completion of project objectives.
2. Apply theoretical learning to practical problems in a design discipline.
3. Analyse and solve real-world problems.
4. Develop professional practice in project work i.e. communication, quality, deadlines, budgets.

This module involves a semester-long professional practice in a design company, department or other organisation involved in design. Learners combine experience in the day-to-day operations of the organisation with projects selected to enhance the learner's skills and provide benefits to the organisation. In addition to using practical skills in a real-world environment, students will develop valuable soft skills such as communication, collaboration, and problem-solving. Undertaking professional practice for industry provides learners with invaluable real-world experience, bridging the gap between academic learning and practical application.

1. Work as a productive member of a team in a design company, department or other organisation involved in design.
2. Apply theoretical learning to practical problems in a design discipline.
3. Analyse and solve real-world problems.
4. Develop professional practice in project work i.e. communication, quality, deadlines, budgets.

This module engages learners in in-depth understanding of project management processes, methods and activities. Through the practical application of project management theories learners will engage in a team-based project to prepare, organise and carry out a project in response to a given design brief. The learners will negotiate their position within a multidisciplinary design team to design, develop and create a collaborative body of work to meet industry and sustainability standards.

1. Evaluate and apply project management concepts, techniques and standards in design projects,todesign and create/produce/manufacture projectsto a professional standard.

2. Use project management systems to structureaproject,job tasks, estimate costs, schedule and manage execution.

3. Analysethe complexities of team-based management.

This module will encourage students to use their personal career ambitions to position their practice within a professional context. Students will engage with a series of lectures, seminars and workshops related to possible pathways in design practice and industry. The module will address pathways to employment, entrepreneurship, and business start-up, including topics such as internship opportunities and competing in design competitions. The module will provide students with multiple opportunities to research and meaningfully engage with external agencies to explore and identify professional context including progression to employment, self-employment, or postgraduate study.

1. Integrate entrepreneurship, business and competitive considerations towards the development their professional practice.

2. Exploreprofessionalenvironmentsand apply strategic thinking to their own career pathway development in the design/creative sector.

3. Produce effective self-promotional materialto developa creativepractice in a professional and ethical manner.

The Dissertation module is designed to provide learners with the support and tuition to pursue independent research and writing leading to specialist knowledge on a selected topic within their design discipline. Learners are encouraged to select a research topic directly related to their current studio practice and utilise the UN Sustainable development goals to inform their research topic further. Learners are required to undertake research on an approved topic using appropriate research methodology. The dissertation will be undertaken throughout the duration of the academic year with key staged deadlines and ongoing formative feedback. A series of seminars will take place in the first semester and there will be a student led seminar presentations on their research to develop their presentation skills and discursive ability. In the second semester, the emphasis will be on individual tutorial supervision towards completion of the written work which should be approximately 8,000 words (not including bibliography, footnotes, appendix, and cover sheet).

1. Determine a topic for investigation engaging with relevant design theories, principles and examples.

2. Demonstrate research skills and systematic methodology in the location and accessing of appropriate information through libraries, electronic databases and other resources.

3. Synthesise analytical and critical skills in the evaluation of examples of objects of craft and design, with integrated supporting references to published texts.

4. Generate a considered argument, logically structuring relevant evidence in support of the case being made applying standard methods of citation and bibliography.

5. Exhibit writing skills that articulate a clear expression of ideas, insights and conclusions.

This 10 ECTS module will focus on the treatment of Interior surfaces. It will explore and investigate material, textures and finishes. The individual nature of a material will be studied regarding its physical properties- texture, colour, form, pattern etc., and assessed for their functional application and psychological effect when the variables of light, space and location are examined. Issues of durability, maintenance and sustainability are of central importance as is a Human Centred approach.

The learner will research how to create a range of finishes and effects along with creating pairings and connections to a diverse range of surfaces and materials.

Thematic research that will generate a substantial body of concepts and these possibilities will be developed through a variety of explorations that test their viability. These initial responses are assessed in the context of relevant contemporary and historical case-studies which have been explored for ideas and inspiration. The development of this research is processed through exploration and application with sample materials in 2D and virtual space.

Practical engagement and exploration of materials and their processing leads to their application to surfaces.

These schemes are recorded in a series of physical prototypes as well as 2D and digital presentations.

1. Undertake and execute independent thematic research ona range of materials and their properties.

2. Investigate, combine and test materials for their suitability and function fora specific design solution and demonstrate these investigations.

3. Apply conceptual thinking through design proposals that test those concepts through various modes of simulated client engagement.

4. Test the rigour of their design proposals through peer group seminars.

5. Professionally present investigations, findings and applications that address the given tasks and meetthe requirements.

In this ultimate Studio module the student is challenged with creating a design solution in an environment that simulates on-site conditions. The design student will appraise the viability of their proposals and implement these concepts using a relevant range of materials, processes and techniques. In resolving the practical, statutory, aesthetic and physical challenges encountered, the learner will utilise the relevant and diverse skills and knowledge acquired to date. Documentation of all stages of testing from concepts to material exploration through to spatial organisation and exhibition will be presented for assessment. This will be in both physical form and as a virtual presentation.

1. Generate a written Integrated Project proposal identifyingthe objectives, parameters and design processes that will be undertaken in its production.

2. Investigate the integration potential ofthe various design processes in the exploratory stages of the project leading to a resolved proposal.

3. Apply increasingly sophisticated conceptual design solutions.

4. Address the needs and desires of the notional client/end-user with regard to design aesthetics, project budget, running costs, interior purpose, design objective, building regulations, ethics, Human Centred Design, Universal Access and sustainability.

5. Quantify and cost all aspects of the Integrated Project design proposal.

6. Execute theresolved proposal in a professional presentation that addresses the tasks successfully.

7. Present the resolved Integrated Project proposal for assessment and exhibition, both physical and digitally, in a professional manner.

8. Operate as an autonomous and dynamic professional Interior Designer.

This module is designed for Interior Design students who wish to develop their skills in digital design. The module builds on the competencies learned Digital Tools 1 (interior Design), and prepares students for implementing modern digital skills in the workplace. This module will enable students to acquire the skills and competencies to represent designs and idea graphically using digital tools and software. Participants will develop a firm understanding of digital tools associated with their chosen design pathway. Learners will develop skills through a series of demonstrations, tutorials, direct experience and focused reflection

On completion learners will have gained competency in using a range of industry standard digital tools with focused learning in their core pathways.

1. Demonstrate an ability to construct high quality, correctly prepared Architectural Building Information Models (BIM).

2. Appraise and select suitable BIM techniques to create building components and BIM families relevant to the Interior Design industry.

3. Formulate and apply solutions to various BIM design and modelling issues as they arise.

4. Develop and apply an architectural awareness of the design and modelling of interior spaces within a BIM workflow.

5. Compose presentations and schematic drawingswhich clearly express and embody design intentions.

6. Identify and critique the various procedures and workflows involved in transferring files and data between various CAD, BIM and Renderingsoftware packages.