Thesis. Introduction.
The thesis module is the final module of my Graphic Design Masters degree course.
This module will be based on the Double Diamond methodology. It is spread across 2 modules, totalling 24 academic weeks.
Phase 1 – Research and Discover (4 Weeks)
This initial phase will allow me to develop and refine my project brief and research question.
Phase 1 Outputs Required
- Draft treatment – One A4 page for studio practice, and history and theory underpinning the MA project. On this page, include a clear research question, with aims, objectives, purpose and audience, that forms a catalyst for your enquiry. You should also outline the type of written submission you will be creating, whether it is academic/research based or entrepreneurial/business based.
- One A4 page critical path outlining the logistics and resourcing plan for the project – bearing in mind that the final output for the project may not be fully resolved.
Weeks 1-2: Review | Evaluation of work and personal objectives
Weeks 3-4: Question and Refinement | Development of key theme and areas of interest
Phase 2 – Define, Test and Prepare (4 Weeks)
Rapid testing of the ideas and skills, to ensure the subject is explored and the problem for exploration is fully tested and defined.
Phase 2 Outputs Required
- A refined report, with logistics of running your project defined (project management)
- Experimental work and testing should be clearly presented and peer-reviewed by a relevant external critic of your finding (creative directors, design studios, writers, journalists from within or beyond the subject), as befits the needs of the area of your proposal.
- Two-minute case study presentations in a webinar format to a creative team / panel, to gather feedback from academics and industry professionals. Case study presentation to include a quote from your external peer review critic.
Week 5-6: Skills and design experimentation | Short project warm-ups and project planning
Week 7-8: External panel evaluation and review | Case study presentations
Phase 3 – Design Development (4 Weeks)
This is the key phase for project growth. Taking feedback from my panel presentation, I will be pushing my project and will be expected to make an action plan.
Phase 3 Outputs Required
- Design development captured, edited and presented in a format of my choice, as a clear narrative of my project development on my blog.
- Development of the evaluation of my critical report draft on my blog.
Week 9-10: Tutor/peer-review briefing of work to date
Week 11-12: Design development | Ongoing Concept, project refinement
Phase 4 – Deliver (12 Weeks)
This is the final making and promotional period of the project. My report is written and next steps are formed.
Phase 4 Outputs Required
- Studio practice – 60% – Designed as an interactive PDF presenting my final project
- Individual (critical) report – 30% – 5,000 words – Presented as a report or business plan, and designed as an interactive PDF.
- Research journal (blog) – 10%
Weeks 13-16: Iteration and review | Further development, peer review of draft report and writing final report or business plan
Weeks 17-18: Promotion plan | Group collaboration on work for final online show
Weeks 19-24: Final production period
Weeks 25-27: Submission and launch of your MA project and next steps | Final assessment and career exit consultation
