Introduction course, APD, 7.5 Credits

Contents

This course provide an introduction to Umeå Institute of Design's workshops, computer and communication networks. It further provide an introduction to the subject of Advanced Product Design and includes creative collaborative work processes. The course consists of the following modules:

1. Introductory Exercise, 1.5 credits.
   Introductory lectures and a creative task which should be solved individually and in groups. Students from different programmes participates and work together during this specific exercise.
    
2. Basic Skills, 1.5 credits.
   Hands-on introductions to the machines, work procedures and knowledge of the safety regulations needed for utilizing the department's workshop equipment.
    
3. Design Project, 4.5 credits.
   Exploration and application of the concept of advanced product design through a specified design project. A special attention during this exercise is devoted to collaborative design processes and the considerations when exploring the interaction with a physical object over time. This module includes a reflection exercise based on the previous carried-out modules.

Expected learning outcomes

After having completed the course, the student will be able to:

Knowledge and understanding

• Use the facilities of Umeå Institute of Design at a basic skill level in a correct and safe manner. 

Competence and skills

• Carry out a design project with a focus on "the interaction with a physical object over time".
• Account for the choice of skills that are needed and implementable for the exploration of the specified design project. 

Judgement and approach

• Individually reflect and present insights and understanding of the opportunities and challenges associated with working in multidisciplinary groups.

Required Knowledge

Univ: In order to be admitted to the course, students must have completed a BA in Industrial Design or the equivalent.
Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English B/6.

Form of instruction

The course consists of practical training through workshop introductions, lectures and own work under the supervision, guidance and tutoring from authorised personnel. Most of these activities will be performed as group work. The education is carried out in English.

Examination modes

The examination is carried out in the form of specified presentations of oral, visual and physical produced material and writing submissions at specified gateways during the course's three modules. In order to obtain the credits for the course the specified assignments in each module must be completed.
The grade Pass (G) or Fail (U) is a summary of the results of the course's three modules and is only given when the final presentation in module 3 has been approved.
For students who have not obtained the grade Pass, other examination sessions will be arranged. A student who for two consecutive examinations for the same course or sub-course has not been passed, has the right to have another examiner appointed, if there are no special reasons against this (Higher Education Ordinance chapter 6, 22 §). The request for a new examiner shall be made in writing to the Head of Department at Umeå Institute of Design.

ACADEMIC CREDIT TRANSFER
Students have the right to request that previous studies, or equivalent knowledge and skills acquired in a professional, work-related capacity, be validated and transferred into credits on an equivalent course or programme at Umeå University.  Applications for credit transfer should be addressed to Student Services/Degree Evaluation Office. More information can be found at the Umeå University student web site (www.student.umu.se/english) and in Chapter 6 of the Higher Education Ordinance.  Appeals may be made to the Higher Education Appeals Board (ÖNH) against a decision by the university not to approve an application for credit transfer (Higher Education Ordinance, Chapter 12), even in cases where only a part of the application has been rejected.