Foundations of Design: Representation (ARCH10001)

This subject builds a foundation for design by introducing students to different methods and processes of representation. The subject’s learning activities develop students’ skills by teaching them to observe, document, analyse and communicate information using different media.  

Students use the ideas introduced through the lecture materials in practice. To do this, they engage with a variety of representational techniques that include orthographic drawing (by hand and using digital software), model making, 2D vector-based drawing and 3D modelling using software that is common in relevant design industries.  

This subject also integrates with the University’s Joining Melbourne Modules. Students can complete these modules in parallel with this subject, unless already completed.   

The subject also supports the Discovery goals for commencing students by introducing:

• emerging concepts and research in the discipline area; 

• ways to connect with the University community including peers, teachers and student groups; 

• awareness of academic expectations; and 

Intended learning outcomes

Upon completion of this subject, the students will be able to:

• Identify key types of representation relevant to contemporary design discourse to inform design thinking.
• Use a variety of representational techniques to support design thinking.
• Translate across analogue and digital modes of representation to develop design thinking.
• Accurately represent and communicate across varying scales and spatial conditions.
• Critically reflect on representational processes to advance design thinking.
• Contribute to individual and collaborative learning environments through active engagement in tutorials, lecture activities and learning resources.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the Joining Melbourne Modules, and the learning outcomes of these, in relation to Foundation of Design Representation subject matter and learning activities.

Generic skills

On completion of the subject, students would have developed the following skills:

• Observation and visual analysis skills;
• Developed a familiarity with basic techniques in drawings undertaken with analogue and digital media;
• Develop communication skills through drawings and other media;
• Developed capacity for independent critical thought, creative inquiry and self-directed learning;
• Developed an understanding of how such techniques are related to creative thinking.