Course Title: Develop and extend critical and creative thinking skills

Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term2 2019

Course Code: EMPL7112C

Course Title: Develop and extend critical and creative thinking skills

School: 320T Architecture & Urban Design

Campus: Brunswick Campus

Program: C4382 - Certificate IV in Design

Course Contact: Alistair Briggs

Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 9446

Course Contact Email: alistair.briggs@rmit.edu.au


Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff

Frances Tatarovic

frances.tatarovic@rmit.edu.au

Nominal Hours: 40

Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.

Pre-requisites and Co-requisites

None required.

Course Description

In this course you will develop the skills and knowledge required to think in a more creative way. Creative and critical thinking involves looking at things differently, musing, testing, experimenting and challenging existing thought patterns. You will extend your problem solving, evaluation and analysis skills.


National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria

National Element Code & Title:

BSBCRT301 Develop and extend critical and creative thinking skills

Element:

1 Develop a questioning mindset

Performance Criteria:

  • Develop the habit of asking questions from different perspectives
  • Take responsibility for exploring a variety of information sources to provide relevant answers to own questions
  • Sort through information and ideas to identify the central questions, issues and challenges
  • Challenge preconceptions and assumptions to determine actual constraints in defining a problem for resolution

Element:

2 Generate ideas and responses

Performance Criteria:

  • Explore and use a range of creative thinking techniques to generate ideas and responses
  • Muse on, play around with and have fun with ideas in relation to a perceived objective
  • Identify and challenge blockers to creative thinking
  • Consider and explore realities beyond the current situation
  • Evaluate, and where appropriate, challenge existing boundaries to determine perceived or actual constraints
  • Show willingness to take risks with ideas and thought processes
  • Look around in familiar and unfamiliar places for new inspiration and habitually record observations, experiences, ideas and reflective thoughts to broaden personal knowledge base
  • Acknowledge and accept the opportunity for revelation when least expected
  • Identify connections and associations from things that seem unconnected

Element:

3 Challenge, test and re invent ideas

Performance Criteria:

  • Identify, interrogate and challenge the assumptions behind ideas
  • Experiment with variations, and explore and challenge a range of different solutions and ideas
  • Consciously change perspectives, and evaluate ideas and situations in new ways
  • Where appropriate, involve others in ideas and how they might change or be improved

Element:

4 Enhance creative thinking skills

Performance Criteria:

  • Consciously challenge and question own thought patterns and ways of responding to work and life situations
  • Identify and take opportunities to self-assess and to learn about new ideas and different ways of thinking
  • Take opportunities to practise and experiment with creative thinking techniques across work and life situations
  • Pro-actively talk to others about ways that new ideas and patterns of thinking can be encouraged and developed


Learning Outcomes



Details of Learning Activities

Learning activities will take place in a studio and computer laboratory using industry standard tools and resources. You will complete exercises and industry style projects. You will also be required to undertake independent study. In-class activities will include:

  • class exercises
  • tutorials
  • practical demonstrations
  • workshops
  • group discussion
  • review and revision
  • peer learning
  • peer teaching and class presentations
  • teacher directed group activities/projects
  • workshopping of student projects including peer/lecturer feedback

 

Out of class activities may include:

  • independent research
  • independent project based work
  • studio practice
  • online tutorials and activities
  • review and revision


Teaching Schedule

 

Please note: While your teacher will cover all the material in this schedule, the weekly order is subject to change depending on class needs and availability of speakers and resources.

There will be a number of prescribed tasks and projects (see Assessment Tasks below).

This course will be delivered in the same weekly session as GRAP5388 - Generate design solutions - BSBDES401. The following timeline contains activities for both courses.

Session

Session description

Assessments

Learning Elements

BSBCRT301

Learning Elements

BSBDES401

1

Course overview
Icebreaker and class tasks. 

Assessment Task 1 folio of tasks Overview
Google slides and template explained. 

 

 

 

1, 2, 4

1, 4

2

Assessment Project 1 folio of tasks Overview

Mind maps task
Creating and using mind maps to generate idea

 Class exercise- MindMaps  add to google slides

1, 2, 3

1, 4

3

Mind maps continued

Complete digital version of mind map.

Use mind map to visualise at least two potential, different design solutions.

Create a series of thumbnails  and choose two to develop.

 

 AT1-1. Digital  Mind Maps  add to google slides folio of tasks.    

4

Complete two currency designs and ask for feedback

Action verbs - introduction and exploration.
Adopting a questioning mindset to look at a design problem and re-arrange it.

 AT1.1.Finished currency designs. Add to google slides folio of tasks.

3, 4

1, 2, 4

5

Action verbs-drawing and selection

Adopting a questioning mindset to look at a design problem and rearrange it.

Add final designs and exploration sketches to google slides.

 AT1.2.Action verbs add to google slides folio of tasks.

1, 2, 4

1, 4

6

Mark making

Fill up a page with design visualisations to an assigned problem. 
Go outside of your usual environment and draw, draw, draw rather than internetting your way out of a problem.

Record and reflect this process.

 AT1.3. Mark Marking add to google slides folio of tasks.

3

1, 4

7

Forced connections

Use the forced connections creative thinking exercise to come up with unusual ideas.

Visualise a shortlist of ideas.

Review week - Class review of work completed so far.

 AT1.4- Forced Connections add to google slides folio of tasks.

3, 4

1, 4

8

Review week - Class review of work completed so far  

3, 4

1, 4

9

Critical questions

Generate insightful questioning to create a basic work plan/brief.

Work on a group task in class and record the results.

 AT1.5- Critical Questions add to google slides folio of tasks.

4

1, 4

10

Consolidation and assessment task 1 wrap-up

Consolidate all documentation for this project. Re-draft and proof text. 
Improve, re-photograph or scan images.

Complete and document a critical/creative thinking exercise found through research, or complete any missed exercises covered earlier in the semester.

If you have completed all tasks submit Assessment project 1. 
Critical/Creative folio 4-6 exercises. 
Complete a short reflection on this project. Upload project 1.

 

 T1.6- Students Choice add to google slides folio of task

1, 2, 3, 4

1, 4

 

 

     

11

Upload project 1.
Complete a short reflection on this project. Upload project 1.

Overview of Assessment task 2

DUE: Assessment task 1.Critical/Creative folio 4-6 exercises.

 

1, 2, 3, 4

1, 4

12

Overview of Assessment task 2- Music covers and process document.

Read through the brief for Project 2. Extract critical questions. 
Target your research

   

1, 4

13

Secondary research

Get off the internet and look at some books. Then get back on the internet and find other resources. Then collate your research, and summarise it. 

   

1, 2, 4

14

Creative thinking

Use two creative thinking exercises to generate original potential design solutions to the brief. Visualise them as sketches. Document this process.

 

1, 2, 3, 4

2, 3, 4

15

Present your ideas.

Show your ideas to your peers as a visual presentation. Ask critical questions to generate constructive feedback. Use this feedback to select, modify and adapt one idea to bring to completion.

.

 

1, 2, 3, 4

2, 3

16

Finalise design solution.

Determine the best idea from a range of possible design solutions for completion to a finished product. Review and refine.

 

4

3, 5

17

Finalise design solution, review work and gain feedback.

Determine the best idea from a range of possible design solutions for completion to a finished product.

 

3, 4

3, 5

18

Assessment task  2 Submission 

Complete your design idea to a finished, folio-ready stage. Complete the documentation of Project 2, readying it for submission.

Students must attend this session to determine whether more work needs to be added to their final submission. Respond to feedback and complete any unsatisfactory-standard assessment to a competent level


 

 

DUE: Assessment Task 2 

Artwork for Album Covers and process document.

 3, 4  3, 5
 19  

Resubmission- (no formal classes)

Respond to any feedback (via canvas) and resubmit unsatisfactory-standard assessment to a competent level. By negotiation only. 

   

 

20   Assessment and return of submissions      

 


Learning Resources

Prescribed Texts


References

Lupton, E 2011. Graphic design thinking : Beyond brainstorming (1st ed.). New York : Baltimore: Princeton Architectural Press ; Maryland Institute College of Art.

9781568989792

Mumaw, S 2014. Creativity Bootcamp, Lynda tutorial, viewed 23 June 2016, .


Other Resources

Prescribed Texts

There are no compulsory prescribed texts in this course. This course has recommended books listed under 'References'

Resources 

You are advised to look at the Learning Hub at myRMIT site for ongoing updated information. A range of learning resources and references are provided throughout the year.

You will require a personal storage device and tools as outlined in tool kit list.

RMIT will provide you with resources and tools for learning in this course through our online systems and access to specialised facilities and relevant software. You will also have access to the library resources.

Amongst the library's electronic resources is the ability to access Lynda.com for online tutorials and lessons. You may be given these tutorials (and other resources) to supplement your classroom learning. The University Library has extensive resources for Design students. The Library has produced a subject guide that includes quality online and print resources for your studies http://rmit.libguides.com/graphicartanddesign

The Library provides guides on academic referencing http://www.rmit.edu.au/library/referencing and subject specialist help via your Liaison Librarian http://www.rmit.edu.au/library/librarians/dsc


Overview of Assessment

Assessment is on-going throughout the course. Assessment tasks will require you demonstrate the application of knowledge and skills through practical projects and/or exercises and creative activities.
The assessment tasks are: Folio production and creative project/s

An assessment charter summarises your responsibilities as an RMIT student as well as those of your teachers.


Assessment Tasks

There are two assessment tasks. Feedback throughout the course may be written, verbal or a combination of both.

Both of the tasks must be completed/submitted. You are required to demonstrate all learning outcomes to a satisfactory standard to be deemed competent.

Assessment Task 1 Project 1: Critical/Creative folio

Complete the class exercises from weeks 1–9. Include all exercises for best potential results, or just your best four, in a folio of critical & creative thinking techniques. The aims are

  • Active participation in a range of creative thinking activities, including ability to ask relevant questions and to generate a range of ideas in response to a given situation or issue
  • Understanding of creativity and creative thinking at a basic level, including its impact and importance for individuals, communities and businesses
  • Knowledge and application of different creative thinking techniques and processes to a range of situations.
  • Development of a design solution through research, reflection and the generation and refinement of ideas
  • Effective collaboration with others in the design process
  • Knowledge of design trends and technologies in the relevant industry context.

Due week 11

Assessment Task 2 Project 2: Design solutions

Redesign artwork for two assigned albums, and adapt the artwork for online music viewers. Complete a process document to record research, ideation, collaboration with others and the final outcome. The aims are

  • Active participation in a range of creative thinking activities, including ability to ask relevant questions and to generate a range of ideas in response to a given situation or issue
  • Understanding of creativity and creative thinking at a basic level, including its impact and importance for individuals, communities and businesses
  • Knowledge and application of different creative thinking techniques and processes to a range of situations.
  • Development of a design solution through research, reflection and the generation and refinement of ideas
  • Effective collaboration with others in the design process
  • Knowledge of design trends and technologies in the relevant industry context.

Due week 18

 

You are required to demonstrate all learning outcomes to a satisfactory standard.
You will receive feedback with verbal and/or written evaluation of your progress within class time. 
The submitted projects will be assessed with written feedback as well as a checklist that relates to separate components of the project and the overall outcome.

Once competency has been achieved this unit is graded. The competency grade table is as follows:
CHD : Competent with High Distinction 
CDI : Competent with Distinction 
CC - Competent with Credit 
CAG - Competency Achieved Graded 
NYC - Not Yet Competent 
DNS :Did Not Submit for Assessment

 


Assessment Matrix

An assessment matrix demonstrating alignment of assessment tasks with the relevant Unit of Competency is available from the course contact person (stated above).

Other Information

Attendance 
The major learning experience involves studio based exercises, demonstration and production. It is strongly advised that you attend all sessions in order to engage in the required learning activities, ensuring the maximum opportunity to gain the competency.

Feedback - You will receive verbal and written feedback by teacher on your work. This feedback also includes suggestions on how you can proceed to the next stage of developing your projects.
Student feedback at RMIT

Student Progress 
Monitoring academic progress is an important enabling and proactive strategy to assist you to achieve your learning potential. Student progress policy

Special Consideration Policy, Late Submission & Extensions
All assessment tasks are required to be completed to a satisfactory level.
If you are unable to complete any piece of assessment by the due date, you will need to apply for an extension.
Pick the following link for details on applying for Special consideration 
Any student seeking an extension, should aim at doing so a minimum of 2 days before the deadline. Work submitted late and without an extension at any point will incur late penalties in accordance with university policy.
If you require an extension you must complete an extension form with evidence supporting your application and hand this to your instructor. Further links - Application for extension of time

On Time Submission and Impact of Late Submission 
On time submission is an important factor in your assessment. Employability skills are embedded in all courses and these include Planning & Organising and Self-management. For this reason, late work impacts on your competency assessment. 
Submissions that are assessed as Not Satisfactory can be re-submitted once and this is only permitted during the period that the competency is scheduled.

Cover Sheet for Submissions 
You must complete a submission cover sheet for every piece of submitted work. This signed sheet acknowledges that you are aware of the plagiarism implications. Submission cover sheet

Academic Integrity and Plagiarism - RMIT University has a strict policy on plagiarism and academic integrity. Please refer to the website for more information on this policy go to Academic Integrity

 

Credit Transfers and Recognition of Prior Learning
Credit transfer is the recognition of previously completed formal learning (an officially accredited qualification).  Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process that allows you to demonstrate competence using the skills you have gained through experience in the workplace, voluntary work, informal or formal training or other life experiences.

Recognition of Current Competency (RCC).
RCC applies only if you have previously demonstrated competence in a unit of competency, and now require to be reassessed to ensure that the competence is being maintained.
Please speak to your teacher if you wish to discuss applying for Credit Transfer, RPL or RCC for the unit(s) of competency addressed in this course

Course Overview: Access Course Overview