vcc.ca
VCDP 2465: Studio: Specialization
Effective date
September 2023
Department
Visual Comm Design Diploma
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
In this studio course, students will explore independent learning and entrepreneurial thinking through self-directed projects. Students will explore entrepreneurial thinking by either completing independent paid projects for their own freelance clients under the mentorship of an instructor or by planning and pitching unique business ideas they could realistically pursue after graduation. Alongside this work, students will also engage in self-directed learning by selecting a personal area of specialization and completing a core independent project that requires new learning. Students will be encouraged to use their work in this course to develop their personal identities as designers, building strength and confidence that will help them build careers after graduation.
Credits
5.0
Year of study
2nd Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
Completion of 67 credits of VCDP 1000- and/or 2000-level courses, or department permission.
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Identify a personal area of specialization and engage in independent learning to strengthen relevant skills
- Describe the common administrative procedures required in running a small business or freelance design career
- Identify and pursue creative and professional opportunities
- Create a plan for ongoing professional development
- Build a professional network
- Create and revise designs that meet client specifications
- Research and discuss current ethical and cultural issues related to design
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 35
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 49
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 24
Total Hours: 108
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 49
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 24
Total Hours: 108
Instructional Strategies
A combination of lecture, demonstration, production simulations, problem solving, practical labs and reflective discussion will be used throughout this course.
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Passing grade
C
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Project |
30 |
Client projects |
|
Assignments |
30 |
Instructor-led assignments |
|
Lab Work |
30 |
May include reflections, learning plans, in-class exercises, assignments, quizzes/tests, and work-in-progress |
|
Participation |
10 |
Participation and professionalism |
Course topics
- Ideation and design thinking
- Business structures
- Administrative procedures
- Proposals, quotes, and contracts
- Networking
- Marketing and self-promotion
- Business and professional ethics
- Project management
- Career planning
- Self-directed learning strategies
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.