Throughout this module I have bettered my understanding of Graphic Design through the reading of academic writing and other primary research, as well as through my own development of practical work. This module has developed my skills in academic writing, introducing me to the use and importance of Harvard Referencing and how to use this within my writing. Choosing an essay question that I had minimal knowledge of beforehand meant that I was able to explore a number of different academias and their opinions, as well as looking at different sources for my research (Study Task 01 helped with this). However, I think that I could have looked into more alternative opinions on my essay subject so that there was reference to each side of the argument, rather than focusing primarily on one. On the other hand, the resources I did use showed me the importance of having content to back up your argument in an essay so that there is a final answer to the essay question. My previous studies have meant that I found writing the essay the least challenging part, on the other hand gathering the content and organising the information was an area that I found more challenging. However, I found that Study Task 04 and 05 were particularly helpful with supporting this area of the essay. I therefore was not limited when it came to putting the essay together as I had completed all the study tasks given therefore I could take my skills that I had explored in these tasks and apply them to the essay.
Due to strict time management I completed the essay early on within the module. After the first draft deadline I was able to complete the relevant suggested adjustment and then gain feedback again. This meant that my essay was completed to a high standard before I began working on the practical work. Balancing my time in this way has meant that I was able to focus on each of the areas of this module equally. It also meant that I was able to apply the information I had learned in the research for my essay to the practical work, as well as researching additional areas in advertising. Due to the relevancy of the brand I was creating an alternative advertising style for, I chose a photography direction for the practical work. This meant that I was able to collaborate with photographer Hilda Quick as well as being able to apply the photography skills I had developed in OUGD404 and apply them to the practical work I was completing. This chosen media meant that I restricted my time plan as it meant I had to plan weeks in advance so that I could secure a studio space. In some cases this was not available and I found other ways to photograph the content that I needed for the poster. This has shown me that a studio space is not always needed and using what is around you is sometimes a better way to photograph a product. It has also helped with structuring my time management within this module as well as working on others at the same time.
Overall I feel that I am now a stronger and more confident designer. I am able to write and correctly reference a piece of writing as well as complete the appropriate research to support my writing. This module has introduced me to various sources of research which has shown me not to limit my research to just one resource (books). The practical work that I completed also supports my essay and has shown me an alternative image to advertising. This has opened my eyes to Graphic Design and has demonstrated the importance of the audiences opinion as well as the importance of understanding the history behind graphic design elements.
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