OUGD404 - End of Module Evaluation

Throughout this module I have really been able to broaden my knowledge and understanding of the principles of design.

Looking at typography and the way it can affect a piece of work has been really useful and allowed me to make better choices when picking typefaces to use. I am now better aware of what it appropriate and what isn't and am better aware of what works. I have also learnt a lot about technical terminology and am able to describe letters and characters in a more knowledgeable and professional way. This module also highlighted to me that I tend to stick with the typefaces I like and feel are safe - this is something I would like to move away from and explore more.

My knowledge of layouts and grid systems has also greatly improved during this module. Looking at things such as the Marber Grid has shown me how effective a standard layout applied across a collection of designs can help bring a project together and unite it in a professional and effective way. Learning about different types of grids such as column grid, modular grid etc has opened my eyes in terms of how I can present my own work in the future.

Studying colour has been one of my favourite parts about this module. I have learnt things I had no idea about before, such as colour theory and Josef Albers' take on it. I have enjoyed learning more technical  things about colour such as how they work when placed together and the certain emotions colour can make us feel if used in particular ways. I have also liked looking at Pantone and feel the things I have learnt about it will be really useful for me in later life in the industry.

Looking at format has also been really interesting - I have taken more time to think about how things are presented and produced. I now think I put more thought into the orientation of a piece of work, how it is put together and the way it is made. Learning about pagination has been really important for me and I have been able to produce professional quality products with this knowledge. My favourite part was being taught book binding techniques as it has shown me the variety of ways small publications can be held together uniquely.

Overall I have really enjoyed this module as a whole and believe it has played a key part in broadening my knowledge on the more technical side of design. I am better equipped now to make work that it appropriate and professional and am able to do this in a knowledgeable way.