In this module, you will develop a critical understanding of how sound functions in a range of perceptual, cultural, and design contexts. The module begins with an investigation into the physical behaviour of sound—through vibration, waveforms, and transmission—before progressing to psychoacoustics, where you will examine the mechanisms of hearing and the cognitive processes involved in auditory perception. Topics include attention, memory, and the influence of context on interpretation, alongside the concept of cognitive load and how sound can enhance or disrupt understanding in complex, interactive environments. Listening is explored as a situated and embodied experience, shaped by language, spatial awareness, and the acoustic character of everyday environments. The relationship between sound and identity, memory, and place is considered alongside the ethical, inclusive, and sustainable dimensions of sound design. Particular attention is given to accessibility, hearing diversity, and the needs of non-trained listeners. Throughout the module, you will apply research-informed methods—such as sound mapping, listening diaries, and user interviews—to analyse listening behaviours and inform your creative practice. These insights will support the development and evaluation of an original sound design for linear or interactive media, such as a short film, immersive installation, or interactive application. By the end of the module, you will be able to approach sound design as a reflective, research-informed practitioner, capable of making creative and evidence-based decisions for diverse listening contexts.