Visual 

Communication 

Design (VCD)

Units 1 and 2

What is the subject about?

In unit 1-2 Visual Communication Design students are introduced to the practices and processes used by designers to identify, reframe and resolve human-centred design problems. They learn how design can improve life and living for people, communities and societies, and how understandings of good design have changed over time. They draw on these new insights to outline communication needs and prepare design outcomes in the form of a brief. This process of discovery introduces students to the phases of the VCD design process and to the modes of divergent and convergent thinking. Practical projects in Unit 1 focus on the design of messages and objects, while introducing the role of visual language in communicating ideas and information. Student projects invite exploration of brand strategy and product development, while promoting sustainable and circular design practices.

In unit 2 Students draw on conceptions of good design, human-centred research methods and influential design factors as they revisit the VCD design process, applying the model in its entirety. Practical tasks across the unit focus on the design of environments and interactive experiences.

“I like VCD because I have some freedom to work on my own ideas and learn how to use a range of materials and methods”.

Kristian Cerovac.

Unit 1: Visual communication in design practice

 Unit 2: Design contexts and connections

Skills you will develop.

• Analyse existing visual communications.
• Select and apply drawing methods and technical drawing conventions.

• research and analyse the influence of design in past and present contexts.
• Select and use appropriate manual and/or digital methods.
• Apply the Discover and Define stages of the VCD design process.

Assessment

• Student should be able to use human-centred research methods to reframe a design problem and identify a communication need - SAC.
• Create visual language for a business or brand - SAC – Folio.
• Develop a sustainable object, considering design’s influence - SAC - Research presentation.
• Present an environmental design solution that draws inspiration –SAC - Folio.
• Apply culturally appropriate design practices – SAC - Folio.
• Apply the VCD design process to design an interface for a digital product, environment or service. – SAC - Folio

 Pathways

 Studying VCD can lead to the following careers

• Graphic Designer
• Architect
• Industrial Designer
• Draftsperson
• Web Designer
• Illustrator

There are no prerequisites for entry into Units 1,2,3

If you are interested in this subject please see Brett Squire