Play & Storytelling - DESG4024

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Module delivery information

Location Term Level1 Credits (ECTS)2 Current Convenor3 2026 to 2027
Canterbury
Spring Term 4 20 (10) Becky Upson checkmark-circle

Overview

How can play be used as a tool in the design process and what form might it take? How can the arrangement of elements, colours and typography carry a narrative, conveying both meaning and emotion? 

Through a series of workshops and briefs you’ll learn how play can be used as a methodology in the design process to ideate, explore and create original and thought-provoking outcomes. You’ll also learn how design, narrative and storytelling is used to communicate a concept or an idea to a wider audience. 

At the end of this module, you will be able embed a playful approach within your design work and be able to explain the use narrative as a core element of the design process and your final outcomes. You will also be able to critique the work of your peers and respond to feedback from others.

Details

Contact hours

Workshop / studio 40

Method of assessment

5 minute presentation + presentation slide deck Presentation. Assessment Details: Individual/Group Presentation
plus presentation slide deck worth 20%.
Presentation and portfolio Project. Assessment Details: Design Pitch – Pitch Deck (presented to a critical audience), Design Outcomes and Supporting Documentation worth 80%. This Assessment is Pass Compulsory.

Reassessment Method: Like-for-like

Indicative reading

Learning outcomes

On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:? 
Apply design strategies to solve problems in response to set briefs. (A5, A6) 
Identify and apply narrative theories and principles when developing and constructing design outcomes. (A2, A6) 
Illustrate narratives and tell stories using a combination of formats and media, e.g. visual, 2D, 3D, literary, oral. (B1) 
Collaborate with others when working on group projects. (C2) 
Mapped to Course Learning Outcomes: A2, A5, A6, B1, C2.

Notes

  1. Credit level 4. Certificate level module usually taken in the first stage of an undergraduate degree.
  2. ECTS credits are recognised throughout the EU and allow you to transfer credit easily from one university to another.
  3. The named convenor is the convenor for the current academic session.
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