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This document only provides information for the academic year selected and does not form part of the student contract

Awarding Institution

University of Huddersfield

Final Award

BSc(Hons) Bachelor of Science with Honours

Teaching Institution

University of Huddersfield

School

School of Arts and Humanities

Subject Benchmark Statement

UG Art and Design (2016)

Date of Programme Specification Approval

2023-10-23

Version Number

2022.01

Educational Aims of the Course

This course introduces the student to the breadth of textiles practice in a stimulating studio and workshop environment, in a department with a rich textile heritage, situated at the heart of the UK’s worsted industry.  It offers the student the opportunity to engage in the creation of textiles, materials and … For more content click the Read More button below. The course aims to provide the student with experience in a wide range of approaches and techniques, leading to the creation of a portfolio of work derived from an increasing specialization in both their professional practice route and chosen specialism. Continued investment in space and equipment within the textiles workshops provides excellent facilities for students to develop a personal working knowledge of both hand-controlled and industry standard equipment. Digital technologies, future materials, and 3D software complement the suite of traditional textile equipment, thus offering the student a rich and varied toolbox, through which they may realize their designs and concepts. The course aims to equip students with knowledge and skills suitable for their employability and their lifelong learning. The central ethos of the course is to create a community of practitioners, whose skills and expertise are shared and built upon and to provide a stimulating and supportive environment in which to learn and work. The award is grounded in and reflects upon the heritage of textiles, the potential of future technological advances, and the developments in sustainable practice central to textile and surface materials. The Textiles course explores potential opportunities applicable for Textile Design, Surface Design and Illustration or Textile Craft practitioners. Students will be introduced to the concept of global trends and market predictions and how they guide the direction of commercial textile practices. They will learn how making is embedded in creative development, which can be applied in a number of ways including craft design, cloth and artefact and explore the potential for surface design and illustration processes to be applied to hard or soft materials for commercial interior and exterior surface solutions. Working closely with the textile industries, engaging in projects with industry, the wider community and craft practitioners or designing across interior and architectural surfaces through multidisciplinary approaches, students will develop knowledge to build aesthetic and professional awareness, knowledge of market levels, fabric performance and cost implications. The course challenges students to engage with and question materials and technologies to help create for a sustainable future. The course curriculum reflects the way in which the creative industries work. Students will form part of a dynamic and interactive learning community engaging with an ideas led approach to creative risk exploration through collaboration and entrepreneurship. Sustainability and design ethics are integrated into the course both as practice and theory. The student will understand how the textiles industry impacts on people and the planet. This will include understanding how the principles of sustainability affect the textile and surface industries, as well as applying these principles to their own practice. They will recognise how their creativity can be utilised to explore solutions to real world problems. Students will have the opportunity to work on live briefs that have sustainability as a primary focus, as well as being able to integrate aspects of sustainability into all project briefs. The staff team is comprised of innovative and creative practitioners who offer expertise in their field and bring energy and enthusiasm to their subject. The established industry links allow the team to continually refresh and update both the teaching and research activities within the department and to keep pace with the ever-changing field of textiles innovation. BA and BSc options for study are introduced in the second year of the course and further developed in the final year, enabling the student to develop their practice in line with their career aspirations. The course aims to ensure that the student achieves academic and practitioner standards as laid-out in the Benchmark Statement relevant to Art & Design.  All theoretical knowledge is coupled with expertise in practical skills and a technical understanding, which stimulates and fosters aesthetic and professional awareness. The course recognises that professionals in Textile Design, Textile Craft, Surface Design and Illustration work in collaboration with each other and other creative industries and are also influenced by each other’s creative practice. The aims of the programme are therefore: To offer a course which enables all students to develop their creative potential and by addressing sequentially more rigorous and intellectually demanding challenges pertinent to the contexts of the course which include Textile Design, Surface Design and Illustration and Textile Craft. To develop in students a range of creative, professional, intellectual and personal skills and approaches to team work, relevant to their practice and transferable to a wider range of solutions. To provide a flexible range of modules, which can be integrated to stimulate and foster aesthetic, theoretical, professional awareness, practical skills and expertise. To develop strong professional awareness, and allow students to explore a wealth of new technologies, cutting edge and traditional materials To offer specific development of student sensitivity in the area of textile and surface techniques considering both hard and soft materials, visual communication and the development of entrepreneurial and conceptual thinking to an advanced level.

Course Offering(s)

Full Time

Full Time - September

Sandwich Year Out

Sandwich Year Out - September

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion you will be able to:
1.
Knowledge of the creative methodologies appropriate to textile practices.
2.
An awareness and cultural understanding of subject specific practices in the context of national and international perspectives.
3.
Synthesise and apply relevant knowledge from a range of sources in order to achieve accomplished final outcomes.
4.
Systematic understanding of the broad range of perceptual and aesthetic influences that affect work.
5.
Understand the principles relating to materials, processes and specifications used in the design and making of work.
6.
Conceptual understanding of historical and contemporary issues and values, in personal modes of enquiry that stimulate intellectual and creative concerns.
7.
Understand and make meaningful connections between different areas of knowledge.
8.
Systematic understanding of product innovation, technology and processes in order to produce sustainable work to a professional standard.
9.
Synthesise exploratory visual research with either trend, creative practice or material research from appropriate sources to Illustrate and develop ideas specific to a chosen market, context or client.
10.
Demonstrate a comprehensive range of creative textile skills, with the ability to describe, evaluate and apply a variety of working methods.
11.
Demonstrate skill in the making of work.
12.
Demonstrate creative thinking, development of concepts and recording of ideas.
13.
Evidence the inputting and collating of appropriate research data.
14.
Resolve any aesthetic and/or technical problems encountered in the making of work.
15.
Demonstrate professional expertise in the presentation of work appropriate to practice context.
16.
Present visual information and artefacts in an informative, integrated and professional manner.
17.
Be receptive to new ideas, identify problems and establish solutions within an efficient timescale
18.
Communicate ideas using a variety of verbal and visual forms, including digitally. Further expand creative and perceptual expertise through creative development and a variety of media and techniques.
19.
Demonstrate a conceptual understanding of the chosen practice, innovative both in scope of approach and presentation of assignments.
20.
Demonstrate reflection and evaluation in an independent.
21.
Apply intellectual rigour to problem solving.
22.
Plan and execute effective research, and technical information relating to the design work and the appropriate environmental, ethical concerns.
23.
Manage time effectively and in a professional manner.
24.
Demonstrate an ability to engage critically and reflectively with appropriately selected textile, surface and craft industries and practitioners, trend providers, entrepreneurs and other textile bodies.
25.
Study independently, set goals, manage their own workloads and meet deadlines.
26.
Anticipate, accommodate and respond to change.
27.
Analyse information and experiences, formulate independent judgements and articulate reasoned arguments through reflection, review and evaluation.
28.
Formulate reasoned responses to the critical judgments of others.
29.
Identify personal strengths, weaknesses and needs.
30.
Articulate ideas and information comprehensibly in visual, oral and written forms.
31.
Present ideas and work to audiences in a range of situations.
32.
Interact, source, navigate, select, retrieve, evaluate, manipulate and manage information from a variety of sources.
33.
Select and employ communication and information technologies.
34.
Critically evaluate possible creative solutions and reflect on associated risk.

Course Structure

Foundation Level

Intermediate Level

Sandwich Year Out

Honours Level

Interim Award

Certificate of Higher Education

Diploma of Higher Education

Teaching, Learning and Assessment

The course aims to provide a vibrant teaching and research environment, supported by staff team and specialist technicians diverse in their experience and research interests. The student will be encouraged to develop a working practice through the crossover and interrelationship of theory, process and practice, and with workshop-led briefs providing … For more content click the Read More button below. A variety of approaches to the student’s teaching and learning are delivered through a blend of practical and theoretical modules throughout the course. Skills in making are developed through practical workshops in constructed and applied textiles, print, embroidery, digital, and future materials, supported by technicians and academics.  Technical and digital knowledge specific to each specialism is delivered through workshop demonstrations, taught classes and in the dedicated Textiles CAD suite. The assessment process is considered a vital aspect of the learning development for both students and staff.  A range of approaches to assessment are utilized on the course which are adjusted according to the context of the work and employed at points considered most beneficial to the student. Key methods to highlight are, Group Assessment and Self Reviews of Feedback. Each of these methods requires a greater level of input by the student so that they take an active rather than a passive role in their assessment. Group Assessment is used for collaborative and group projects and employs a system that gives the students the final decision on how the group grade is divided amongst the team. Individual grades are dependent on each person’s contribution to the project and the whole team signs off on the allocation of marks. Self-Review of Feedback is used to encourage student reflection on feedback. A self-review form is completed and returned to the tutor one week after the initial feedback, and then reviewed in a tutorial. Students are able to fully engage in the feedback provided and the reflection period allows time for them to develop more specific questions in related to the development of their own practice.  Peer assessment, self-assessment, traffic light feedback, peer note taking, written and verbal feedback are other methods employed across all levels of the course.  The collaborative nature of the course allows for regular discussions in groups supported by one-to-one and small group tutorials. Staff will encourage the use of software to facilitate student ownership of their learning, whilst the physical location of students and tutors means that there are higher than normal levels of engagement achieved on the course.  Enterprise and entrepreneurship is embedded in the curriculum and supported at both school and university level through initiatives including ICE (Innovation and Creative Exchange) project, Honeypot (Huddersfield Open Network for Enterprise Creativity, Prototype Design and Test) and the Enterprise Placement Year. The course has close links with global companies renowned as suppliers to the leading brands in the fields of fashion and interiors, performance fabrics and surface materials. Working both independently and collaboratively on live projects with these leading brands, the student will develop their visual vocabulary, in the creation of innovative materials using both traditional hand techniques and new digital technologies. Preparation for the optional placement year encourages self-reflection and the creation of an on-line portfolio of work, and this responsibility for their own development, and practice orientation supports the student’s preparation for the final year of the course. Student staff collaboration on research is guided by staff research interests, through projects starting in the second year of the course.  Examples of these partnerships include, future and surface material innovation for the Surface Design Show, and ‘Crafting the Community’, a volunteering project in a continuous state of development. This project has involved an ongoing programme of events and community activity which develop contemporary textile craft and art practices that promotes the meaning of cloth in practical and effective roles, as a central tenet of wider culture and society, often conducted beyond the University campus. Our work with communities on the textiles course has received national and international recognition. A range of conference papers, international biennale exhibition, conference, book publication, awards and funding signposts significant impacts for the projects. At the Honours Level students can negotiate and identify their career orientation and their chosen award route, expanding their personal development and creative control of their specialist medium. The Theory and Technical modules continue to develop theoretical study in line with in-depth research of a topic pertinent to the students’ own practice and alongside specialist investigation of technique and process. Final year teaching continues to be responsive to differing learning styles, practice routes, specialism and to the experiences the student may have had on placement. Assessment methods on the course include the production of portfolio in the studio/workshop, research and development work, professional presentations, textile samples, artefact, surface products, technical records, written assignments, exhibitions/presentations in the studio or other locations, verbal presentations, plus self-assessment and evaluation. A range of assessment methods will be adopted to test the learning outcomes within each module, methods include peer, self, group and tutor assessment. Evaluation forms completed by the students as a response to assessment feedback, will be integrated into the program of learning (PDP/ILP).  Moderation is a key aspect of practice-based assessment with all tutors involved in discussion of grades. Usually assessment will be by design portfolio or assignment.  The criteria for assessment are stated in the modules.  There will be no formal examinations in the modules in this course and an assessment timetable will be provided for each year group.  

Support for Students and their Learning

Course Level Support

·        Induction packs sent to students prior to arrival at University followed by an induction programme for orientation and introducing study skills at the beginning of term.

·        Student handbook and on-line module guides.

·        Studio Culture and Workshop facilities.

·        Fieldtrips (optional)

·        Specialist PC & CAD facilities

·        Virtual learning environment,

·        Learning Resources Bureau (LRB)

·        Personal academic tutor system, specialism tutors (situated in close proximity to the workshops and studios) and frequency of small group and one-to-one tutorials ensure a high level of student/ staff engagement.

 

·        Peer mentorship schemes such as PAL (peer assisted learning) are used to offer friendly, impartial advice and assistance, by students, for students, answering the questions that are not always posed to the academics.

·        Academic Skills Tutor.

 

Personal Development Planning

Personal development planning is inherent in all modules and it is intended that the first year module TFD1320 Contemporary Practice in Context 1 will be the students’ introduction to PDP which they have opportunities to develop in subsequent years and will enhance their learning and address issues in line with University policy on PDP and encourage independent active learning. The student records their reflective thinking relevant to their own practice and the context in which it is situated at all levels of study through research journals and online blogs.   The Year Two module TID1342 – Theoretical and Ethical Studies will further develop the students’ PDP through reflective thinking and team role identification. Preparation for placement and career opportunities is delivered through modules at both the intermediate and honours level. Creation of CV’s and e portfolio/press pack is developed in these modules, specific to the students chosen career/placement route. Professional practice assignments in the THD1377/THD1378 modules in final year, equip the student with the confidence to promote themselves and their work in a professional manner in line with their career aspirations.   PDP will be enhanced through e-Learning mechanisms in place at the university (VLE).

 

Equal Opportunities

In admitting students, and in teaching and assessing them, the course operates in conformity with the University and School of Art, Design and Architecture’s policies on equal opportunities.

 

Equality Act 2010

In admitting students, and in teaching and assessing them, the course operates in conformity with Precept 8 of the QAA Code of Practice for Disabled Students in line with the Equality Act (2010).

Criteria for Admission

The University of Huddersfield seeks and encourages applicants in order to widen participation, improve access and apply the principles of equal opportunities.  We provide support for applicants who require additional assistance in order to select the right course of study and make a successful transition to studying at University.  We encourage local, national and international applications.  Further information for International Students can be found on their website.

If you were educated outside the UK, you are required to have International English Language Testing System (IELTS) at a score of 6.0 with a minimum score of 6.0 in writing and a minimum of 5.5 in any single component. If you have alternative qualifications or do not meet the IELTS requirement we also offer a range of Pre-Sessional English Programmes.

The University provides opportunities for the accreditation of prior learning (APL) as stated in Section 3 of the Regulations for Awards.

 The University’s general minimum entry requirements are specified in Section 1.5 of the Regulations for Awards.

Every person who applies for this course and meets the minimum entry requirement – regardless of any disability – will be given the same opportunity in the selection process.  General advice and information regarding disability and the support the University can give can be found by contacting student services as follows:

Telephone: 01484 472675

Email: disability@hud.ac.uk

Further information is available on the disability services website.    

Further advice on the specific skills and abilities needed to successfully undertake this course can be found by contacting the admissions tutor and by visiting our course finder website page.

However, the specific entry requirements and admission criteria for the courses are detailed below:

Portfolio inspection and satisfactory completion of an interview.

To include evidence of their creativity, approaches to drawing, idea development, and research into current textile and surface practitioners.  We are interested in finding out about the candidate as a person, their interests and influences and especially their reasons to study textiles practice.

Passes in 5 subjects at GCE/Vocational A Levels/GCSE which must include 12 units of study from 3, 6 or 12 unit awards with at least one 6 or higher unit award to total a minimum 120-104 tariff points.  The minimum level of attainment must not include an Advanced subsidiary GCE in the same subject as an Advanced GCE Passes.

GCSE passes in Mathematics and English at Grade C or above are preferred

OR

A Scottish Certificate of Education with passes in 5 subjects, 3 at the Higher Grade or passes in 4 subjects at the Higher Grade

OR one of the following:

A National Certificate or Diploma awarded by EdExcel Foundation – (AVCE or GNVQ in Art & Design)

A National Certificate at GSVQ at level 3 awarded by the Scottish Qualifications Authority

A European Baccalaureate

An International Baccalaureate

The Irish Leaving Certificate with Grade C or above in 4 subjects at Higher Level

Qualifications deemed equivalent to the above

Exceptionally, applicants whose qualifications do not conform to the standard requirements may be admitted on the basis of appropriate prior learning or experience.

Methods for evaluating and improving the quality and standards of teaching and learning

·     

Please note

University awards are regulated by the Regulations for Awards (Taught Courses) on the University website.

Quick links to the Regulations for Taught Students, procedures and forms can be accessed on the University website.

Indicators of Quality and Standards

Course validated by the University of Huddersfield in November 2018

 

Subject Review for Fashion and Textiles Subject Area, December 2018

Conclusions on quality and standards

The panel was fully confident that the courses met the quality and standards requirements set by the University.

 

Please note:  This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the Course and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if he/she takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided.

More detailed information on the learning outcomes, content and teaching, learning and assessment methods of each module can be found in the study module guide and course handbook.  The accuracy of the information contained in this document is reviewed by the University and may be checked by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education.

 

Key sources of information about the course can be found in: