DGN1010 · Design tools, techniques and technologies

Through this unit, you will develop foundational literacy in the tools, techniques and technologies used to develop and communicate ideas within a design process. The unit focuses on how different representation processes shape design thinking and inform communication throughout stages of project development across two- and three-dimensional, static and dynamic modes. These include analogue ideation, technical documentation, diagramming, spatial mappings and digital visualisations. You will engage with selected analogue and digital tools to understand their purposes, conventions and affordances. Working across physical and digital environments, you will explore how representational systems operate, how meaning is constructed through them, and how they support iterative design processes. Emphasis will be placed on integrating tools within hybrid workflows, rather than treating them as isolated elements. Through individual and collaborative exercises—including engagement with generative AI systems—you will build capabilities selecting and adapting tools and technologies as part of your evolving design practice. You will also critically reflect on the implications of tools and technologies, and how they influence creativity, attention, collaboration and decision-making within contemporary design contexts.

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items, but there may still be one.

1. Assessment task 1

   Project

   40%

2. Assessment task 2

   Project

   60%

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

1. Understand the purposes, affordances and implications of key tools, techniques and technologies within a design process;
2. Apply selected analogue and digital tools to create and communicate design ideas across two- and three-dimensional forms through iterative stages of development;
3. Recognise how tools, techniques and technologies shape creative thinking, communication and collaboration during design projects;
4. Evaluate and adapt tools, techniques and technologies by in response to emerging contexts and an evolving design practices;
5. Reflect on the ethical, social and environmental implications of selecting design tools, techniques and technologies;
6. Build personal capacity for learning and integrating analogue and digital tools within a hybrid workflow that connects design thinking, development and communication.

Enquiry-based learning Online learning Peer assisted learning Active learning

12 hours per week - 3 contact hours per week and 9 hours of independent study, or equivalent.

Credit points

6

Level

Level 1

Faculty

Department of Design

School

Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture

Student contribution band

Band 2

Study abroad

Available

Handbook version

2027.01

These are students' own experiences, not official rules. Go by the Handbook.