Visual Communication

This course provides an introduction and practical training in various forms of visual communication. The teaching is aimed at different ways of conveying information and knowledge, and provides the candidate with basic knowledge of visual communication through theory and ideas from graphic design and communication studies. Combined with relevant design tools and insight into how aesthetics can help to support a message, the candidate will gain a good foundation for strengthening the visual communication in their work.

Knowledge

The candidate

• Has insight into how principles of visual perception work
• Has an overview of central theories within visual communication and different approaches to graphic design
• Has knowledge of principles for universal design, (as well as knowledge of the WCAG standard and relevant legal requirements)
• Has insight into copyright and the use of other people's image material in visual representations
• Has an understanding of how to produce appropriate visual representations
• Has general competence in layout, aesthetics and typography

Skills

The candidate

• Can independently design and produce well-thought-out visual representations
• Understands the importance of universal design in visual communication
• Can design reader-friendly figures, illustrations and data visualizations

General competence

The candidate

• Has knowledge of communication situations
• Can assess and justify own design choices
• Can work independently and in a structured manner

The course is taught through video lectures. The student is responsible for working independently and iteratively with project work towards final portfolio submission. The student must familiarize themselves with the course's framework for academic support and feedback. Feedback sessions are offered digitally/physically each week where students are given the opportunity to receive individual support.

The course is offered to incoming exchange students and is therefore taught in English.