University of Sydney Handbooks - 2013 Archive

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Bachelor of Design Computing Units of Study

Table B: Bachelor of Design Computing - Core units of study

Candidates are required to complete all the core units of study listed in this table.

Junior units of study

DECO1012 Design Programming

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Rob Saunders Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1hr lecture/week, 2hrs tutorial/week Prohibitions: DECO2011, SOFT1001 Assessment: Tutorials and participation (10%); three programming assignments (90%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
This unit aims to teach students an understanding of the stages involved in the development of software for design; skills in the design and implementation of software for design tasks and in the development of software as design tools. On the successful completion of this unit of study, students will have demonstrated: skills in using software tools to build interactive, visual design applications through individual programming assignments; knowledge of object-oriented programming concepts through individual programming assignments; implementation techniques such as editing, using libraries, and compilation and runtime environments through individual programming assignments; knowledge of the Java programming language including: classes, methods, object creation, instance and local variables, primitive and object types, simple I/O, and control flow through individual and group programming assignments; knowledge of software design and development processes including analysis of requirements, design of data-structures, functions and classes, software development lifecycles, and managing software projects.
DECO1006 Understanding Design and Cognition

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Martin Tomitsch Session: Semester 1 Classes: Lecture 1.5 hrs/wk, Workshop 1.5 hrs/wk Prohibitions: DECO1004 Assessment: Two written assignments (50%); final exam (25%); regular workshop assessments (25%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
This unit of study aims to give the student an understanding of design as a general activity in its own right, comparative to other activities such as science and art. It aims to stress the importance of design (and its consequences) as an activity concerned with changing the state of the existing environment through a set of conscious and purposeful actions. It aims to demonstrate that the study of the design process can be undertaken in a general manner independent of any discipline through the study of design methodology and design cognition.
On the successful completion of this unit of study, students will have demonstrated: an understanding of the importance and generality of design as an activity by having them reflect on the nature of design across the various disciplines and its relation to other activities such as Science and Art; an awareness of the knowledge and processes involved in design and to apply such knowledge and processes in their approach to design, as for example in the Design Studio. This awareness is reinforced by the assignments that are intended to make students think about design objects in a more analytical fashion and about how designers think. These are reinforced by assignments which require students to gain a knowledge of design thinking and an understanding of the need for critical examination and both objective and subjective analysis and judgement of works of design.
This unit is core in the Bachelor of Design Computing and elective in other programs.
DECO1100 Digital Design Studio

Credit points: 12 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr onacloV Session: Semester 1 Classes: Lectures and studio: 6 hrs/wk Prohibitions: DECO1011 Assessment: Three assessments (90%); attendance (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Core unit for Bachelor of Design Computing. BST students by permission. Enrolment is limited by teaching resources.
In studying this unit, students will: develop an understanding of how to conceptualise and communicate design concepts through image and video production; be introduced to digital image representation and technology through design projects; become proficient with the elements of digital design technology including digital images, photography and video; develop skills in digital imaging software such as Photoshop, and video software such as Final Cut Pro X; and develop experience with significant digital design issues relating to photography and video. Students documentaries will evolve around concepts relating to the oldest, living, continuous culture: Indigenous Australians.
On the successful completion of this unit of study, students will have demonstrated skills in sourcing, developing, designing, and creating documentary video content through a series of tutorial exercises; knowledge of how to incorporate documentary video design will be developed in  tutorial exercises.
This unit is a core studio in the Bachelor of Design Computing program. This unit is a foundation for knowledge of image design and digital media design techniques.
DECO1008 3D Modelling

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Lian Loke Session: Semester 2 Classes: 3 hrs/wk Prohibitions: DECO2103 Assessment: Tutorials: (10%); Geometric Modeling (20%); Lighting and Texture (30%); Fully Rendered Model (40%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: This unit is for BDesComp and BST students only. Others may enrol in DECO2103.
This unit aims to give the student an understanding of the basic concepts of modelling and presentation so that they will develop skills in creating and using 3D models for various design tasks.
On the successful completion of this unit of study, students will have: demonstrated an understanding of how physical objects are represented in 3D digital models by modelling various 3D geometric entities and processes required; demonstrated critical judgment, be capable of rigorous and independent thinking and use appropriate information technology techniques to communicate their knowledge through the production of efficient design presentations and documentation; an understanding of boundary representations, solid modelling, parametric models, texture mapping, light sources, camera locations and projections, and model constraints through model development and presentation; acquire skills in using a 3D modelling system for 2D and 3D objects and in creating photorealistic images, movies, VR scenes, and simple animations from 3D models that accurately describe design variations, intent, and structure. These skills will be assessed through the tutorial exercises and the submission of a portfolio of 3D models.
This unit is core in the Bachelor of Design Computing.
DECO1013 Sound Design and Sonification

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Oliver Bown Session: Semester 2 Classes: Lectures, tutorials and lab sessions, 3 hours per week Prohibitions: DECO2012 Assessment: Tutorial exercises and design projects (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Enrolment limited by teaching resources. Permission required unless enrolled in the Bachelor of Design Computing or the BST. Other students may apply directly to the Faculty of Architecture, Design and Planning for a place.
This unit introduces sound as a design medium, with an emphasis on computer-based implementations. It introduces the core concepts of acoustics and psychoacoustics, digital audio, audio programming and studio production, as well as aesthetic issues in sound design, the creative use of sound as a medium for communication, and sound in interactive systems. Students are introduced to programming interactive audio systems in code and creative patching environments, as well as studio production using digital audio workstations, and studio production using the Faculty's recording studio.
On the successful completion of this unit of study, students will have demonstrated knowledge of the methods of programming audio systems, knowledge of a range of sound design techniques, especially in relation to interactive contexts, awareness of issues of aesthetics in sound and sonification and the ability to work in a team to produce complex interactive audio systems.
This is a core unit in the Bachelor of Design Computing.

Senior units of study

DECO2010 Designing Social Media

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Rob Saunders Session: Semester 1 Classes: 3 hours per week Prerequisites: DECO1012 Assessment: 1 x group work on sociable media (20%), 1 x 2000 word essay (20%), 1 x group design project (40%), weekly tutorials (10%), attendance and participation (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Enrolment numbers limited by teaching resources. If your attempt to enrol online is unsuccessful, please seek permission from the Faculty of Architecture, Design and Planning Student Administration Centre. First preference to Bachelor of Design Computing students.
The aim of this unit is to understand principles and technologies relevant to the design of social media, that is, media supporting social interaction. Design principles for the representation of personal and collective identity, the visual depiction of the traces of socialisation and the narratives produced, and the creation of virtual spaces for socialisation are emphasised. Students study methods for motivating collaboration, learning how to analyse social media through the notions of crowdsourcing, produsage and gaming. Students will gain proficiency in the programming practice of "mashup", the use and combination of data or functionality from two or more sources, to create new social media client applications. Programming languages taught will include HTML 5, CSS 3, Javascript and PHP. Students will participate in, critically review and design new forms of sociable media to demonstrate their understanding of the subject matter.
INFO2120 Database Systems 1

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: (Lec 2hrs & Prac 2hrs) per week Prohibitions: INFO2820, COMP5138 Assumed knowledge: Some exposure to programming and some familiarity with data model concepts such as taught in INFO1103 or INFO1003 or INFS1000 or INFO1903 Assessment: Participation (10%), Lab Skills (10%), Project (20%), Final Exam (60%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
The proper management of data is essential for all data-centric applications and for effective decision making within organizations. This unit of study will introduce the basic concepts of database designs at the conceptual, logical and physical levels. Particular emphasis will be placed on introducing integrity constraints and the concept of data normalization which prevents data from being corrupted or duplicated in different parts of the database. This in turn helps in the data remaining consistent during its lifetime. Once a database design is in place, the emphasis shifts towards querying the data in order to extract useful information. The unit will introduce different query languages with a particular emphasis on SQL, which is industry standard. Other topics covered will include the important concept of transaction management, application development with a backend database, an overview of data warehousing and online analytic processing, and the use of XML as a data integration language.
DECO2200 Interaction Design Studio

Credit points: 12 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Martin Tomitsch Session: Semester 2 Classes: Lecture 1 hr/wk, tutorial 2 hrs/wk, studio 3 hrs/wk Prerequisites: DECO1100 Prohibitions: DECO2102 Assessment: Design projects (75%); tutorial activities (15%); participation (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Core unit for the Bachelor of Design Computing. BST students by permission. Enrolment is limited by teaching resources.
This unit introduces principles of interface and interaction design through design projects. Students will develop technical as well as methodological skills for designing and developing interactive software, web sites, products, and services. Elements of interaction design including menus, screen design, motion, animation, graphics design, and sound integration will be addressed for various media and platforms, including the Internet and mobile devices. Methods for interaction design that will be covered include requirement analysis, storyboarding, and prototyping.On the successful completion of this unit of study, students will have demonstrated: the application of knowledge of interaction design to a range of contexts, for the Internet and standalone media, through the design project; knowledge of narrative and engagement in non-linear interactive contexts through the design project; knowledge of scripting and mark-up languages for enabling dynamic content and interactive designs, e.g. ActionScript, HTML, and JavaScript, through tutorial exercises; understanding of different types of user interaction, with an emphasis on traditional interfaces, but including innovative methods of interaction (as a preparation for the 3rd year Human-Computer Experience Design Studio). Contribution to program: This unit of study is core in the Bachelor of Design Computing program. It builds on knowledge of image design and foundational digital media design techniques introduced in the Digital Design Studio, integrating and applying this knowledge in the context of interactive multimedia and interaction design understanding. The unit develops interaction narrative, engagement, curiosity and design methods using the computer interface. It lays the groundwork for scripting interactivity using web-based and standalone technologies. The unit leads on to the subsequent Human-Computer Experience, which further pursues interaction, moving to mobile, wireless, haptic and spatial sensate interfaces.
DECO3100 Information Visualisation Design Studio

Credit points: 12 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Martin Tomitsch Session: Semester 1 Classes: Lecture 1 hr/wk, Tutorial 2 hr/wk, Studio 3 hr/wk commencing Wk 2 Prerequisites: (DECO1100 and DECO1200) or (DECO1100 and DECO2200) or (DECO2101 and DECO2102) or (DECO2012 and DECO2013) or (DECO1013 and DECO2013) Prohibitions: DECO3001 Assessment: Group design project(s) (40%), individual design project(s) (30%), individual report (15%), tutorial exercises and class participation (15%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Core unit for Bachelor of Design Computing. BST students by permission. Enrolment is limited by teaching resources.
The field of information visualization focuses on how non-physical data can be effectively represented to users, in an interactive and automatic way. This unit of study will introduce the principles of information visualization design, with special attention to metaphoric mapping, human-computer interaction, user engagement, and interdisciplinary insights. Topics will include: abstract data visualization (graphical, ambient or non-visual); metaphor creation and evaluation; interdisciplinary influences; server-side programming and client-side scripting.
After successful completion of this unit of study, students will have acquired: an awareness of information visualization issues through reviews of significant research publications; a research methodology by the development of a relevant research paper; design skills required to develop an information visualization prototype using a real-world dataset; relevant knowledge about tools and programming languages that process data on the server-side and present information interactively on the client-side.
This unit is core unit for Bachelor of Design Computing students only. Student effort expected for an average student to achieve a pass level result: contact hours: 12 hours per week; class preparation: 9 hours per week; assessment preparation: 39 hours per semester.
DECO3200 Human-Computer Experience Design Studio

Credit points: 12 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Oliver Bown Session: Semester 2 Classes: Lecture 1 hr/wk, Tutorial 2 hrs/wk, Studio 3 hrs/wk Prerequisites: DECO3100 or (DECO2101 and DECO2102 and (DECO1012 or DECO2011 or SOFT1001)) Prohibitions: DECO3002 Assessment: Tutorial exercises and design projects (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Core unit for Bachelor of Design Computing. BST students by permission. Enrolment is limited by teaching resources. This unit of study may incur equipment costs.
This studio offers a context for students at the end of their Design Computing degree to apply design, technical and creative methods to the production of high-quality group work, with a strong focus on the development of high-impact portfolios.
Students will cover the principles of user-centered design in the context of new product development, and will engage with new technologies for networked social interaction, data and digital media programming APIs, and mobile and physical computing. Assignments will take the form of flexible group projects with major artistic and commercial outcomes, and as well as the outcomes themselves students will be required to produce reports and presentations on their contribution to projects.
The unit of study aims to graduate the students from the degree with the confidence to apply their design computing and digital media skills to a wide array of design problems that they may encounter in various industries. Upon completion of this unit of study, students will have demonstrated the capacity to investigate and integrate advanced design computing technologies into the design of objects with embedded information content and intelligence. The unit of study also reinforces the students' experiences in designing through reflection-in-action of the design process.
This unit is core for the Bachelor of Design Computing.

Technical electives

Candidates are required to complete a minimum of 18 credit points, with a minimum of 6 credit points at 2000 level or higher, from units offered by the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technologies prefixed ELEC, MTRX, COMP, ISYS and/or INFO.

Arts electives

Candidates are required to complete a minimum of 18 points, with a minimum of 6 credit points at 2000 level or higher, from units offered by the Faculties of Arts and Social Sciences, Science or the Business School

Electives

Candidates are required to complete a maximum of 24 credit points of electives from the following list. Students who have completed 96 credit points with a WAM of at least 70 may substitute, with the permission of the unit coordinator concerned, units from Table G, Graduate units of study.

Design Computing electives

Senior units of study

DECO3005 Advanced Interaction Design

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Martin Tomitsch Session: Semester 1 Classes: Lecture 1 hr/wk, Tutorial 2hrs/wk commencing Wk 2 Prerequisites: DECO2200 or DECO2102 Assessment: Design project (90%); participation (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
The objectives of the unit are to extend interaction design fundamentals learned in Interaction Design Studio (DECO1200) or Interactive Multimedia Design (DECO2102); to understand how humans interact with digital interfaces; to develop interface design that elicits engagement and interaction; and to develop an advanced knowledge of screen design principles and navigational methodologies. Students will develop further understanding of interaction design and develop strategies to apply this understanding to interactive design projects. The unit focuses on methodologies for interface and interaction design. Programming tools learned in previous units, such as HTML, Javascript, and Processing, will be used for creating interactive prototypes. Applications will be developed and deployed for different platforms, such as physical interfaces, mobile platforms, large screens. Final projects will demonstrate implementation and understanding of aesthetic design principles, design architecture, and effective, efficient interactive interface design. At the conclusion of the unit students should have a well-developed understanding of interaction design demonstrated through the structure and design of an interactive multimedia project; an understanding of efficient navigational and innovative interface design eliciting user engagement and demonstrated knowledge of responsive media; an understanding of technical methods to link content and external data (e.g. from sensors or online sources) to the interactive product.
DECO3006 Principles of Animation

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Rob Saunders Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1x1hr lecture/week and 1x2 hr tutorial/week commencing week 2 Prerequisites: DECO1008 or DECO2103 Assessment: Conceptual development (20%); fundamental techniques (30%); final project (50%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Enrolment numbers limited by teaching resources. If your attempt to enrol online is unsuccessful, please seek permission from the Faculty of Architecture, Design and Planning Student Administration Centre. First preference to Bachelor of Design Computing students.
The aims of this unit of study are to introduce the fundamental principles of the animation process, to develop an understanding of the process involved in developing character, text and motion graphics based animation, and to develop an understanding of the integration between 2D artwork and 3D composition. Students will develop an understanding of the application of animation in the production of film, television, Web, electronic art, and other platforms that can show visual content. Students will acquire basic animation skills, transfer traditional animation principles to computer graphics, and develop the skills to create an animated sequence and the critical vocabulary to describe animation. Basic knowledge will be related to foundational technical skills in industry standard software for animation and aims to serve as an introduction to further animation learning. At the conclusion of this unit a student should have the ability to perform various animated techniques to be incorporated into a variety of platforms.
DECO3008 Design Computing Prep Hons Research

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Martin Tomitsch Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two hour seminar per week. Prerequisites: 72 credit points and minimum WAM of 70 Assessment: Research area summary report (40%); research proposal report (60%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This unit aims to provide: an overview of the Faculty's research projects in design computing; an overview of research methods in design computing; instruction on how to write a preliminary research proposal for a project in design computing.
This is a seminar unit of study in which the academic staff in design computing and cognition will present their research projects to the potential honours students. The students will also be taught how to prepare a preliminary research project proposal and be introduced to some of the research methods used in design computing.
At the conclusion of the unit a preliminary research proposal will demonstrate the student's ability to identify a research area and a preliminary research plan.
DECO3003 Design Computing Research Opportunity

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Martin Tomitsch Session: Semester 2 Classes: Lecture 1 hr/wk and tutorial 2 hrs/wk commencing week 2 Prerequisites: 96 credit points and minimum WAM of 65. Assumed knowledge: Computer programming. Assessment: Two progress reports (2 x 15%); final report (70%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Students from other faculties may apply directly to the Faculty of Architecture, Design and Planning.
The aim of the Design Computing Research Opportunity is to allow a student to participate in each phase of research activity: developing a research plan in conjunction with the staff member; proposal writing; conducting research; analysing data; and presenting results in oral and written form.
At the end of the unit the student will have experience in developing research proposals, conducting research and presenting their results.
Design Computing Research Opportunity offers the opportunity for a Bachelor of Design Computing student to work with an academic staff member on research-based intellectual collaborations. The student works on an existing research activity of the staff member. It can be one of the most important means for students to develop an understanding of research as an intellectual endeavour and to foster mentoring research relationships with academic staff.
The research proposal, which is the first progress report, will demonstrate the student's ability to work within an existing research. The second progress report will identify the student's capacity to work on a research project within an existing research program and becomes a demonstration of the research skills being developed. The final report will take the form of a research paper and is used to develop the student's skills in presenting research results.
DECO3441 Design Computing Independent Study A

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Martin Tomitsch Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Weekly meetings by arrangement. Prerequisites: 48 credit points and WAM of at least 70. Assessment: Report or equivalent (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Submit an Independent Study Approval Form, signed by your proposed supervisor and program coordinator with your request to enrol.
This unit provides an opportunity to high achieving students to develop an interest in a specific Design Computing topic; to develop skills in independent study; and to develop advanced report writing skills.
This elective is undertaken with an agreement between the student and a supervisor on an agreed topic related to Design Computing. The student will meet with the supervisor weekly to discuss progress.
The outcome should be a reflective report on a selected topic demonstrating mastery of the topic.
DECO3442 Design Computing Independent Study B

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Martin Tomitsch Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Weekly meetings by arrangement. Prerequisites: 48 credit points and WAM of at least 70. Assessment: Report or equivalent (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Submit an Independent Study Approval Form, signed by your proposed supervisor and program coordinator with your request to enrol.
This unit provides an opportunity to high achieving students to develop an interest in a specific Design Computing topic; to develop skills in independent study; and to develop advanced report writing skills.
This elective is undertaken with an agreement between the student and a supervisor on an agreed topic related to Design Computing. The student will meet with the supervisor weekly to discuss progress.
The outcome should be a reflective report on a selected topic demonstrating mastery of the topic.
DECO3443 Design Computing Independent Study C

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Martin Tomitsch Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Weekly meetings by arrangement. Prerequisites: 48 credit points and WAM of at least 70. Assessment: Report or equivalent (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Submit an Independent Study Approval Form, signed by your proposed supervisor and program coordinator with your request to enrol.
This unit provides an opportunity to high achieving students to develop an interest in a specific Design Computing topic; to develop skills in independent study; and to develop advanced report writing skills.
This elective is undertaken with an agreement between the student and a supervisor on an agreed topic related to Design Computing. The student will meet with the supervisor weekly to discuss progress.
The outcome should be a reflective report on a selected topic demonstrating mastery of the topic.
DECO3444 Design Computing Independent Study D

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Martin Tomitsch Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Weekly meetings by arrangement. Prerequisites: 48 credit points and WAM of at least 70. Assessment: Report or equivalent (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Submit an Independent Study Approval Form, signed by your proposed supervisor and program coordinator with your request to enrol.
This unit provides an opportunity to high achieving students to develop an interest in a specific Design Computing topic; to develop skills in independent study; and to develop advanced report writing skills.
This elective is undertaken with an agreement between the student and a supervisor on an agreed topic related to Design Computing. The student will meet with the supervisor weekly to discuss progress.
The outcome should be a reflective report on a selected topic demonstrating mastery of the topic.

General electives

Students may also enrol in the following General Elective units of study with permission. Please contact the program coordinator for current topics.
DECO3551 Design Computing General Elective A

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Martin Tomitsch Session: Semester 1,Semester 1a,Semester 1b,Semester 2,Semester 2a,Semester 2b Prerequisites: 48 credit points. Assessment: Assignments as determined by Unit Coordinator (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Submit an Independent Study Approval Form, signed by the elective supervisor, with your request to enrol.
This elective allows a group of students to pursue a topic proposed by a member of academic staff in a formal learning environment.
This unit of study is available to a minimum of 10 students to engage in a topic related to Design Computing that is organised by a member of academic staff. This allows a member of staff to teach a topic of special interest or for a visiting academic to teach a subject related to their specialty. Students will participate in lectures, tutorials, or other activities as needed to pursue the elective topic. The topic for this elective is proposed by a member of academic staff and approved by the Associate Dean (Undergraduate).
Students will develop an understanding of a special topic through reports, projects, and tutorial exercises.
DECO3552 Design Computing General Elective B

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Martin Tomitsch Session: Semester 1,Semester 1a,Semester 1b,Semester 2,Semester 2a,Semester 2b Prerequisites: 48 credit points. Assessment: Assignments as determined by Unit Coordinator (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Submit an Independent Study Approval Form, signed by the elective supervisor, with your request to enrol.
This elective allows a group of students to pursue a topic proposed by a member of academic staff in a formal learning environment.
This unit of study is available to a minimum of 10 students to engage in a topic related to Design Computing that is organised by a member of academic staff. This allows a member of staff to teach a topic of special interest or for a visiting academic to teach a subject related to their specialty. Students will participate in lectures, tutorials, or other activities as needed to pursue the elective topic. The topic for this elective is proposed by a member of academic staff and approved by the Associate Dean (Undergraduate).
Students will develop an understanding of a special topic through reports, projects, and tutorial exercises.
DECO3553 Design Computing General Elective C

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Martin Tomitsch Session: Semester 1,Semester 1a,Semester 1b,Semester 2,Semester 2a,Semester 2b Prerequisites: 48 credit points. Assessment: Assignments as determined by Unit Coordinator (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Submit an Independent Study Approval Form, signed by the elective supervisor, with your request to enrol.
This elective allows a group of students to pursue a topic proposed by a member of academic staff in a formal learning environment. This unit of study is available to a minimum of 10 students to engage in a topic related to Design Computing that is organised by a member of academic staff. This allows a member of staff to teach a topic of special interest or for a visiting academic to teach a subject related to their specialty. Students will participate in lectures, tutorials, or other activities as needed to pursue the elective topic. The topic for this elective is proposed by a member of academic staff and approved by the Associate Dean (Undergraduate). Students will develop an understanding of a special topic through reports, projects, and tutorial exercises.
DECO3554 Design Computing General Elective D

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Martin Tomitsch Session: Semester 1,Semester 1a,Semester 1b,Semester 2,Semester 2a,Semester 2b Prerequisites: 48 credit points. Assessment: Assignments as determined by Unit Coordinator (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Submit an Independent Study Approval Form, signed by the elective supervisor, with your request to enrol.
This elective allows a group of students to pursue a topic proposed by a member of academic staff in a formal learning environment. This unit of study is available to a minimum of 10 students to engage in a topic related to Design Computing that is organised by a member of academic staff. This allows a member of staff to teach a topic of special interest or for a visiting academic to teach a subject related to their specialty. Students will participate in lectures, tutorials, or other activities as needed to pursue the elective topic. The topic for this elective is proposed by a member of academic staff and approved by the Associate Dean (Undergraduate). Students will develop an understanding of a special topic through reports, projects, and tutorial exercises.

Faculty electives

Junior units of study

AWSS1001 Architectural Sketching and Drawing

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: Studio 2 hrs/wk Assessment: Portfolio of works (60%) and process journal (40%) Practical field work: Studio practice Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Students may incur costs for materials in some Art Workshops units.
This module aims to provide the student with the knowledge, skills and aptitude required to use a range of fundamental drawing skills and media to make a portfolio of drawings based on observation of the physical world, in particular the built world. On successful completion of this unit of study students will have demonstrated familiarity with a range of drawing media and techniques, including charcoal, graphite, conte crayon, pen, brush and ink, as well as being introduced to colour and mixed media. Students will be encouraged to develop a commitment to the practice of drawing as a discipline in its own right as well as a fundamental skill in all design areas. Each technique and approach will be presented against a background of art history and current architectural practice. Students will understand the importance of maintaining a diary as a site to record all their visual and conceptual research, and in which to draw on a daily basis as a means to develop both skills and ideas.
DESA1004 Designing with Surfaces and Light

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Wendy Davis Session: Semester 2,Summer Early,Winter Main Classes: Online delivery through WebCT Assessment: Two assignments (2 x 50%) Mode of delivery: On-line
Note: Enrolment numbers limited by teaching resources. If your attempt to enrol online is unsuccessful, please seek permission from the Faculty of Architecture, Design and Planning Student Administration Centre.
Objects only become visible when light reflects off of them. This unit explores the ways in which light interacts with surfaces, objects, and the human visual system. Architectural design decisions regarding the lighting, as well as exterior and interior surfaces of a building, alter the perceptual experience of users and should be done thoughtfully.
This unit introduces students to the way humans perceive and experience the built environment. It covers some of the fundamental properties of light, mechanisms of human perception, and the ways that light interacts with surfaces. The application of these topics to design decisions is also discussed. Students demonstrate their understanding of the presented material and apply their knowledge to critically analyze their own environments.

Senior units of study

AWSS2001 Public Art

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 2 hrs/wk Assessment: Research Journal (40%), Essay and Oral presentation (60%) Practical field work: 2 x 3hr field trips (held on Saturdays) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Enrolment numbers are strictly limited by teaching resources. Please email arch.sac@sydney.edu.au if you wish to enrol; if the unit is already at capacity you will be placed on a waiting list. Attendance at the first class is compulsory to maintain your place in the unit. If you do not attend the first meeting your position will be offered to the person at the top of the waiting list.
This practical unit will provide students with the opportunity to explore changing notions of Public Art in contemporary art. The course addresses the shift of focus from the making of isolated objects in space, to more self-reflexive modes of art making that use public space as a medium. Students will be introduced to early experimental works ranging from Land Art to Psychogeography, to more recent works in street art, public interventions and spatial mapping. During the course, students will develop a series of propositional based public art works in a range of materials that are then realised in public spaces.
AWSS2002 Site Specific Art

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 3 hrs/kw Assessment: Commitment and attendance (20%); experimentation (20%); quality of work, competence with materials (20%); innovation(20%); contribution to discussion and critical thinking (20%) Practical field work: Studio practice. Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Enrolment numbers are strictly limited by teaching resources. Please email arch.sac@sydney.edu.au if you wish to enrol; if the unit is already at capacity you will be placed on a waiting list. Attendance at the first class is compulsory to maintain your place in the unit. If you do not attend the first meeting your position will be offered to the person at the top of the waiting list.
This practical unit aims to give students a broad understanding of site-specific art including its historical development and relationship to other visual art forms and architecture. Students gain experience in ways of selecting and analysing sites for the purposes of incorporation into artwork. Students begin to develop an individual art practice through using a wide range of materials to make temporary site-specific artworks and also begin to develop ways of analysing and evaluating site-specific artworks through directed group discussions.
AWSS2010 Ceramics (Handbuilding)

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 3 hrs/wk Assessment: Studio projects (60%); Process Journal and associated assignments (40%) Practical field work: Studio practice Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Enrolment numbers are strictly limited by teaching resources. Please email arch.sac@sydney.edu.au if you wish to enrol; if the unit is already at capacity you will be placed on a waiting list. Attendance at the first class is compulsory to maintain your place in the unit. If you do not attend the first meeting your position will be offered to the person at the top of the waiting list.
This practical unit aims to give students the understanding to create handbuilt ceramic constructions that will be fired and glazed. Students will explore the plastic properties of clay as well as glazing, underglazing and surface treatments. There will be an investigation of handbuilt ceramics at both historical and contemporary levels. Set projects will enable students to discover their own means of expression and design of vessels and sculptural forms. Projects include slab and coil construction and combinations of coil, slab and pinch construction. Various surface finishes such as brushwork, glazing and sculptural relief applications will be introduced including coloured underglazes, slips and glazes.
AWSS2013 Digital Video

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Ms Zanny Begg Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Three hour workshop per week Assessment: Assessment is based on: group work (40%) and individual projects (60%). The group work comprises a collaborative film project and the individual projects are comprised of one individual film project, a written assessment and in-class tests. Practical field work: Studio practice Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Enrolment numbers are strictly limited by teaching resources. Please email arch.sac@sydney.edu.au if you wish to enrol; if the unit is already at capacity you will be placed on a waiting list. Attendance at the first class is compulsory to maintain your place in the unit. If you do not attend the first meeting your position will be offered to the person at the top of the waiting list.
This practical unit aims to explore the languages of moving images; conventions of framing, movement and editing; developing a fundamental understanding of the technical aspects of pre-production, production and post-production; and generate independent and cooperative working methods using a variety of media. Students will be introduced to digital video systems with up-to-date editing software. Emphasis is placed on skills development, process (storyboarding) and ideas. The module is divided into units exploring approaches to lighting, shooting, editing, sound production and concept development.
AWSS2015 General Drawing

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 3 hrs/wk Assessment: Portfolio (60%); Process Journal (40%) Practical field work: Studio practice Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Enrolment numbers are strictly limited by teaching resources. Please email Matthew Charet, matthew.charet@sydney.edu.au, if you wish to enrol. If the unit is already at capacity you will be placed on a waiting list. Attendance at the first class is compulsory to maintain your place in the unit. If you do not attend the first meeting your position will be offered to the person at the top of the waiting list.
This module aims to provide the student with the knowledge and aptitude required to use a range of fundamental drawing skills and media to make a portfolio of drawings based on observation of the physical world. It aims to increase the student's level of skill in representational, interpretive and expressive areas of drawing. The focus is on the formal aspects of composition and perspective as well as mixed media and experimental approaches. Students use a wide variety of mark-making methods to render line, tonal value and texture. Students are provided with the opportunity to combine sound observational skills with imaginative and experimental techniques in order to encourage a personal vision and a commitment to the practice of drawing. Drawing is a discipline in its own right as well as a fundamental skill in all design areas. Each technique and approach will be presented against a background of art history and theory.
AWSS2020 Object Design

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 3 hrs/wk Assumed knowledge: Completed an ATSC workshop proficiency class Assessment: Portfolio of works and presentation (60%); process journal and associated assignments (40%) Practical field work: Studio practice Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Enrolment numbers are strictly limited by teaching resources. Please email arch.sac@sydney.edu.au if you wish to enrol; if the unit is already at capacity you will be placed on a waiting list. Attendance at the first class is compulsory to maintain your place in the unit. If you do not attend the first meeting your position will be offered to the person at the top of the waiting list.
In this unit students develop and inter-relate manufacturing and artisan skills with research, analysis and design development. It aims to develop a critical awareness of the nature of all objects which surround us, exploring cultural, contextual and symbolic aspects of object design as well as functional and aesthetic qualities. Sustainability and social issues relating to their manufacture, use and disposal are also discussed. The unit aims to increase appreciation of the materiality of objects focusing on timber as an example and introduces students to the wonderful diversity of timber species, environmental and ethical issues associated with their selection, and also emerging alternative materials. Through a series of exercises and production of their major project, students develop knowledge of construction techniques and skills in using wood/plastics tools and machinery and in so doing, build an awareness of industrial and craft practices and how they impact on the design process and outcome.
AWSS2023 Photography 1

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: 3 hrs/wk Assessment: Process Journal and associated assignments (40%); final project and presentation (60%) Practical field work: Studio practice Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Enrolment numbers are strictly limited by teaching resources. Please email arch.sac@sydney.edu.au if you wish to enrol; if the unit is already at capacity you will be placed on a waiting list. Attendance at the first class is compulsory to maintain your place in the unit. If you do not attend the first meeting your position will be offered to the person at the top of the waiting list.
This practical unit assumes students have little or no understanding of dark room practice. It aims to give students an understanding of how photography functions as a contemporary visual medium, including its historical development. Students will gain knowledge of the principles and practise of camera operations, the production of high quality black and white negatives and prints in small studio style classes. This module covers the use of a 35mm SLR camera, image composition, use of lighting, film developing and printing photographs. Practical work includes darkroom, gallery visits, completion of set class projects, technical exercises, class discussions and the production of a portfolio. Students should have access to a 35mm SLR film camera.
AWSS2024 Photography 2

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 3 hrs/wk Prerequisites: AWSS2023 or by either presenting a portfolio of b&w photographic work or by presenting a transcript indicating a minimum of a full semester unit in b&w photography. Assessment: Process Journal and associated assignments (40%); final project and presentation (60%) Practical field work: Studio practice Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Enrolment numbers are strictly limited by teaching resources. Please email arch.sac@sydney.edu.au if you wish to enrol; if the unit is already at capacity you will be placed on a waiting list. Attendance at the first class is compulsory to maintain your place in the unit. If you do not attend the first meeting your position will be offered to the person at the top of the waiting list.
In this unit of study, students will have the opportunity to develop creative photographic projects from initial ideas to production of artwork, producing two major photographic series that function successfully at both an aesthetic and a conceptual level. They will have the opportunity to research and experiment with a variety of different ideas and take an experimental approach to photography, trying different techniques and considering which will best serve the intentions of the artwork.
AWSS2026 Screen Printing on Paper

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 3 hrs/wk Assessment: Research Journal (30%); portfolio of Studio Works (70%) Practical field work: Studio practice Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Enrolment numbers are strictly limited by teaching resources. Please email arch.sac@sydney.edu.au if you wish to enrol; if the unit is already at capacity you will be placed on a waiting list. Attendance at the first class is compulsory to maintain your place in the unit. If you do not attend the first meeting your position will be offered to the person at the top of the waiting list.
This studio-based unit will introduce students to various methods and techniques in screen printing. Students will be provided with the opportunity to create an edition or experimental series of screen-prints. In conjunction with the studio work, students will develop a strong awareness and appreciation of screen-printing in both historical and contemporary contexts.
Techniques covered include: photo, wax emulsion stencils, preparation of photo-positives, ink technology, registration and print set-up for multi-coloured screen-prints. Through studio practice, set exercises, illustrated talks, gallery visits and library research students will develop an understanding of their creative process and ability to interpret ideas through the medium of screen-printing.
AWSS2027 Sculpture

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 3 hrs/wk Assessment: Journal and associated assignments (40%); projects and presentation (60%) Practical field work: Studio practice Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Enrolment numbers are strictly limited by teaching resources. Please email arch.sac@sydney.edu.au if you wish to enrol; if the unit is already at capacity you will be placed on a waiting list. Attendance at the first class is compulsory to maintain your place in the unit. If you do not attend the first meeting your position will be offered to the person at the top of the waiting list.
The aim of this unit of study is to introduce students into the practical, historical and theoretical facets in the making of sculptural works. Students will work with a broad range of materials and sculptural techniques including clay modelling, plaster-mould making, casting, soldering, brazing and welding. Emphasis is placed on developing students' awareness of the elementary aspects of three-dimensional forms in space. Students will be required to design, plan and complete two main sculptural works, utilizing mediums and techniques explored with throughout the semester. In addition to this, students will need to independently research historical precedents and contemporary practice and discuss their ideas and development of their work in class.
DAAE2005 Designing with Colour 1

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Wendy Davis Session: Semester 1,Semester 2,Summer Early,Winter Main Classes: Online delivery through WebCT Assumed knowledge: DESA1004 Assessment: Critical evaluation and analysis (50%) and report (50%) Mode of delivery: On-line
Note: Enrolment numbers limited by teaching resources. If your attempt to enrol online is unsuccessful, please seek permission from the Faculty of Architecture, Design and Planning Student Administration Centre.
All design decisions involve decisions about colour within the fields of architecture, applied design and art. This unit presents knowledge about colour theory as well as research-based information about colour and associated topics that can be used in design. Information and knowledge about colour can vary in quality and reliability, which is demonstrated. Students apply their skills and knowledge about colour theory and colour design in the assignments of this unit.
This unit covers the processes of colour vision and other aspects of visual perception. It also explores colour application from the Pre-history period, as well as selected colour theories of the Renaissance period through to the 21st century. Common colour-related constructs and the application of these in art, architecture and design are discussed. In completing the assessments tasks, students must demonstrate understanding of the knowledge presented in learning modules of the unit and critically analyse and apply knowledge related to colour design and application.
BDES6026 Architecture Revue

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Assoc Prof Chris L. Smith Session: Semester 2 Classes: Studio contact plus self-directed preparation and assignments, for a minimum student commitment averaging 9 hours per week. Assessment: 1 x illustrated process journal (60%); 1 x group performance (40%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day
The aim of the Architecture Revue Unit of Study is to explore the relationship between architecture and performance. Students engage in the simultaneity of the creation and performance of a theatrical work focussed on architecture, architectural critique and stagecraft. The UoS will enable students to define, draw and then continually reconfigure boundaries between theatrical spaces, narrative, imagined spaces, senses and concrete physical environments. Class preparation 3hrs/wk, Assessment preparation 6hrs/semester