VCE | VISUAL COMMUNICATION DESIGN

VCD examines the way visual language can be used to convey ideas, information and messages in the fields of communication, environmental and industrial design. Drawing is used as the primary component of visual language to support the conception and visualisation of ideas. The design process provides a structure to organise design thinking and is shaped by considerations of

YEAR 10* OR 11

UNIT 1 - Finding, reframing and resolving design problems

Students focus on using human-centred research methods to reframe a design problem and identify a communication need. They learn how design can improve life and living for people, communities and societies, and how understandings of good design have changed over time.

Students will create visual language for a business or brand (logo design) using the Develop and Deliver stages of the VCD design process.

They use technical drawing to develop a sustainable object, while considering design’s influence and factors that influence design.

UNIT 2 - Design contexts and connections

Students will apply design thinking strategies to brainstorm design ideas inspired by contextual factors and chosen design styles. They will engage in the VCD design process to produce solutions for an environmental design problem centred around architectural design and/or landscape design.

Students will explore culturally appropriate design practices and develop an understanding of the designer’s ethical and legal responsibilities when designing personal iconography.

Students focus on applying the VCD design process to design an interface for a digital product, environment or service.

aesthetics and functionality, as well as social, cultural, environmental and economic factors. Students develop the skills to communicate ideas through the use of design elements, design principles, selected media, materials and methods of production.

YEAR 11* OR 12

UNIT 3 - Visual communication in design practice

Students compare the ways in which visual communication practices are used by contemporary designers, using research methods and practical exploration.

They will compare and analyse design examples from selected field(s), describing how aesthetic considerations contribute to the effective communication of information or ideas.

Students prepare a brief and develop design ideas for the unit 3 design folio, while applying the VCD design process and design thinking strategies.

UNIT 4 - Delivering design solutions

Students refine and resolve design concepts for each communication need, and devise and deliver a pitch to communicate concepts to an audience, evaluating the extent to which these meet the requirements of the brief. They select materials, methods and media appropriate for the presentation of final design solutions distinct from one another in purpose and presentation format.

Students produce a design solution for each communication need defined in the brief, satisfying the specified design criteria.

* Acceleration is possible in this subject. See page 13 for information on acceleration.

** This subject will incur a levy of $50 per semester.