This module builds on the learning and skills acquired through the pre-requisite Design Studio modules. Students will learn to: • To effectively experiment, analyse, innovate and plan a design project from inception to completion • Understand and develop design ideation • Implement a variety of design tools and methodologies • Engage in multidisciplinary teams • Collaborate with industry partners • Improve teamwork skills • Improve primary design research skills • Collate, analyse and synthesise research findings for design ideation • In-depth user testing and analysis • Improve concept development skills through exploration of idea generation techniques • Develop an ability to effectively progress concepts through iteration • Critique and evaluate concepts • Develop an appreciation for design detailing • Develop knowledge of design manufacturing processes and materials • Advance design communication skills • Utilise leading edge technologies in communication of designs • Develop an ability to reflect on personal design work • Application of this theory to their own work through project based studio classes

The following is an outline of topics covered in project based studio classes: • Evaluation and filtering methods for concept selection • Idea generation techniques • Implementation of entire design process from research to design detailing • Design ideation • Engagement with industry partners through sponsored design projects • Visual communication tools • Advanced design skills development • Usability principles – testing and analysis • Graphical user interface interaction • Product design focused manufacturing techniques and materials

On successful completion of this module, the students should be able to: • Implement an entire design process from research to design detailing • Utilise idea generation techniques • Apply a variety of visual communication tools in documenting their work • Apply usability principles in their work • Conduct rapid Graphical User Interface testing and development • Identify suitable manufacturing techniques and materials for product design • Identify and employ appropriate technology for product specification. • Employ design acuity in the creation of positive user experiences both digital and tangible.

On successful completion of this module, the students should be able to: • Display design acuity in relation to aesthetics, form and user interaction with products. • To collaborate effectively in mixed disciplinary 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 CREATIVE and COLLABORATIVE 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.