Overview
This course introduces the principles and practices of visual communication across print and digital environments. Students examine visual hierarchy, gestalt principles, composition, balance, contrast, rhythm, scale, proportion, alignment, proximity, colour theory, typography, image selection and production, symbolism, sequencing, grids, information structure, branding, data visualisation, interface basics, and design for diverse media.
The course investigates how visual messages are shaped by audience, purpose, medium, culture, accessibility, and context. Through iterative planning, sketching, critique, tool-independent workflows, file preparation, and presentation, students develop posters, editorial layouts, social and digital graphics, visual identity systems, and clear translations of complex information. Emphasis is placed on research, revision, readability, accessibility, intentional design decisions, and the assembly of a process portfolio.
Learning Outcomes
- Identify and apply core principles of visual communication in print and digital design contexts.
- Analyse the effectiveness, cultural assumptions, and accessibility of visual messages for diverse audiences.
- Apply intentional choices about typography, colour, imagery, space, sequence, and visual structure to meet a defined brief.
- Develop and revise design concepts through research, sketching, prototyping, critique, and reflective evaluation.
- Design visual communications that demonstrate readability, accessibility, coherence, and suitability for audience, purpose, medium, and context.
- Prepare digital and print-ready files using appropriate technical and production conventions.
- Present and justify design decisions clearly using relevant visual communication terminology.
- Assemble a process portfolio that documents research, iteration, outcomes, and critical reflection.
Timetable
| Type | Length | Frequency | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Studio | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Tutorial | 1 hour | Weekly | All semester |
| Workshop | 2 hours | Fortnightly | All semester |
Assessment Schedule
| Type | Description | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Visual analysis and principles assignment | 15.00% |
| Deliverable | Design exercises portfolio | 20.00% |
| Test | Mid-semester practical test | 15.00% |
| Assignment | Visual communication project | 25.00% |
| Deliverable | Process portfolio and reflective commentary | 15.00% |
| Tutorial | Final presentation | 10.00% |
Prerequisites
- Requirement 2 NCEA Level 2 Visual Arts credits, externally assessed
Teaching Staff & Programs
This course is delivered jointly by faculty from the participating programs listed below. In line with the Douchewater Way, the University of Sexology tailors core instruction directly to each cohort's specific discipline — adapting curriculum to program needs rather than forcing students into a one-size-fits-all model. Learn more about our approach at The Douchewater Way.
