Modules

Core Module Information
Module title: Interpretation and Design
SCQF level: 11:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10
Module code: DES11141
Module leader: Tom Flint
School School of Arts and Creative Industries
Subject area group: Art Design and Photography
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added
Description of module content:

This module aims to develop your understanding of the design and presentation of themes and narratives for exhibitions, events, installations and site specific areas of cultural, historical or natural interest. You will be introduced to contextualised modes of museum and heritage interpretation beyond 20th century idioms of information and signage. The module historicises user interaction, curatorial practice and spatialized experience. You will explore and interrogate a variety of design strategies used by designers to address thematically driven project briefs in a variety of physical and virtual contexts.Live design projects that respond to or work with existing cultural spaces form the core of the module. You may be required to respond to project briefs that explore experience-design, pedagogy, play-based learning and narrative design in the presentation of objects, spaces and experiences. In developing an industry-standard Interpretation Plan, you will be required to undertake thematic, contextual and material research to illustrate how design solutions provide for enhanced user experience in a defined environment.
Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Generate ideas and design narratives through a critical assessment of interpretation design.

LO2: Critically explore the historic development of design narrative including signage, and user interaction and experience.

LO3: Challenge conventions in design interpretation and engage in critical dialogue.

LO4: Conceptualise and justify interpretation design outcomes and design interventions.

LO5: Critically reflect on interpretation design outcomes in relation to thematic contexts and the stated objectives of the project brief.
Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2026/7, Trimester 2, In Person,
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: MERCHISTON
Partner:
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Tom Flint
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Lecture 6 In this series of lectures you will be introduced to the concepts and principles that guide current interpretation design. The lectures will discuss the history of interpretation and how interpretation design can move beyond traditional approaches.
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 24 In these practical classes and workshops you will explore methods for creating interpretation narratives. You will explore methods for communicating your plans and ideas to various audiences. These sessions are likely to include field trips.
Online Guided independent study 170 You will expected to explore the themes discussed in lectures and practical assessments in your own time. You are encouraged to practice the techniques taught to you in these sessions. You will be expected to present and discuss your work with your peers and tutors.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Project - Practical 50 1~2~3~4~5 Exam Period HOURS= 10-20 pages You will develop an Interpretation Plan for a specific site or set of artefacts. We will endeavour to include a live client wherever possible who will help us determine the focus of the assessment.Your interpretation plan will be guided by the expectations presented to you in the practical sessions and workshops.
Oral Presentation 20 1~2~3~4~5 Week 12 HOURS= 8-15 minutes You will develop a specific prototype that complements your interpretation plan. The prototype will be a stand alone item that communicates your interpretation concept to a number of audiences. You will use this presentation to present your prototype to your peers and tutors.
Oral Presentation 30 1~2~3~4~5 Exam Period HOURS= 8-15 minutes You will present your interpretation concepts and proposals to your peers, tutors and any live clients. You will take this opportunity to present your research and how it has led to your interpretation plan.
Component 1 subtotal: 100
Component 2 subtotal: 0
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
DES11141 Interpretation and Design
 

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