This module builds on basic design skills and processes learned in prerequisite modules. Students will be introduced to more advanced design processes and skills and will apply this new learning in project based studio classes. The module will focus on: • Improving experimentation, exploration and communication of ideas • Developing an aesthetic appreciation of products • Beginning to develop visual acuity to understand the relationship between form and function • Understand contemporary trends in aesthetics • Conduct basic user research and identify user needs • Designing for improved user experiences • Learn a variety of design tools and methodologies • Develop emotional intelligence in respect to teamwork • Develop primary design research skills • Learn sketch modelling skills suitable for rapid user testing and analysis • Improve concept development skills • Build on basic understandings of manufacturing processes and material properties acquired in preceding modules and learn to apply theory to the production and manufacture of products.

The following is an outline of topics covered in project based studio classes: • Design skills (including sketching, prototyping, presentation skills, visualisation) • Working as a team • User centred design • Design iteration • Design ideation • Design skills such as; sketching and rapid model making • Understanding and application of current technologies and mechanical processes • Application of basic manufacturing processes and material selection • Materials processing knowledge and the application of these in practical design projects. • Primary design research • Aesthetic theory and application of that theory to the students work.

On successful completion of this module, the students should be able to: • Apply User Centred Design theory in their design work • Demonstrate a practice of design iteration • Employ current technologies in the development of products • Understand materials and manufacturing methods. • Identify appropriate primary design research techniques for use in various design projects • Utilise primary design research techniques effectively • Critique contemporary design trends • Apply aesthetic theory to their design work

On successful completion of this module, the students should be able to: • To identify and understand user needs and to respond creatively and pragmatically to address these needs. • To co-operate effectively in teams.

On successful completion of this module, the students should be able to: • Display high level design skills and apply the relevant skills at different stages in the design process. • Execute a design project from research to final concept.. • Sketch design ideas and concepts. • Build prototype models to demonstrate product functionality. • Present design concepts verbally and visually.

The course content and subsequent learning outcomes have been modified to reflect emerging trends in design education and to reflect the building block educational style where key design skills and processes are introduced to the students over a series of 5 modules spanning 3 years of study (years 1-3). Design Studio is at the core of the Product Design Process. Through studio based projects students acquire the skills and competencies necessary to develop valuable human-centred solutions. Year 2 Design Studio exposes the student to a variety of design methodologies and the tools necessary to implement and realise solutions developed through these processes. Projects are organised around specific project briefs, each brief is themed around a core set of learning outcomes. These Learning outcomes may include (but are not limited to) mechanical principles, material properties and manufacturing processes, user experience, idea generation and creativity, professional practice. Studio work is structured to create engaged feedback loops between learner and tutor. Continued interaction between the student and lecturers ensures work is critically analysed, discussed and reflected upon individually, in peer groups and as part of the larger class.