Fashion and Technology

Course Code: KD102A

Institution:

School of Arts and Communication

Revision:

3

Other set versions

Approval

The course was established 09 March 2007.
This course syllabus (version: 3) was approved 16 April 2010 by the Board of Studies at School of Arts and Communication.
The syllabus is valid from 01 September 2010. Replacement for course syllabus ratified 23 October 2009.

Education level

first cycle

Advancement in relation to the degree requirements

Single subject course.

Entry requirements

The special prerequisite for this course, besides basic eligibility for university studies, is fieldeligibility 6: Civics A and English B. Applicants are exempted from the Civics A requirement.

Learning outcomes

After completing the course the student shall have knowledge of and understanding in:

-how wearable technologies can speak the language of fashion and serve as agents of personal expression regarding identity, socio-cultural communication and as a critical tool.
-different methods of investigating and visualizing a design concept.
-basic physical prototyping involving digital electronics and the programming of microprocessors.
-Introduction to a range of existing devices and sensors suitable for wearables.
-Introduction to several existing artefacts within the scope of the course.

After completing the course the student shall have the skill and ability to:

-engage in a reflective design process for expressive wearable technologies.
-construct a physical prototype of a design concept using digital electronics and microprocessors.
-apply concept visualization skills

After completing the course the student shall have developed judgement and vaulation to:

-be able to expand the view of technology as primarily aimed for functionality towards a tool for personal expression.
-be able to evaluate and critically reflect on his own and others choices of design methods and developed design concepts.

Assessments

The course will be assessed through design exercises, participation in class discussions, lab results and through the final project. Deliverables of the final project includes:
-a thoroughly documented exploration of the problem field
-a thoroughly documented design process
-a sound and qualifiable design solution and prototype

In addition the student must have carried out all of the assignments given.

A student who didn´t pass the course and has shown good faith in trying to meet the learning outcomes of the course will be given a chance to achieve approval at two occasions. The first a month after the course is ending and the second at the end of the next term.

Course content

As wearable technology becomes more common, it is changing our concept of human subjectivity, creating new concepts of identity, new systems of behaviour and extensions of the body itself. This course combines the theories of wearable technologies as means to express your personality with practical concept development and physical prototyping.

Explorations of the field includes a study of clothing and style as socio-cultural communication and an investigation of how emerging technologies can assist in personal expression and mediate social experiences. The practical work will include a hands-on study of enabling technologies. The student will put their knowledge into practice by crafting a prototype based on an investigation that creates an innovative idea.

Structurally, the course is divided into two parts. The first part consists of weekly assignments on different themes always including lecture, workshop, labs and presentation seminars. The second part consists of the final project

Learning activities

A variety of resources are employed, including lectures, hands-on workshops, presentation seminars, electronic laboratory sessions and tutoring during the final project. The students will engage in group work as well as individual assignments.

Grading system

Fail (U), Pass (G) or Pass with Distinction (VG). ECTS grading system can be used on students demand.

Reading list and other media

Recommended literature:
Barnard, Malcolm. (2002). Fashion as Communication. Routledge.
Lee, Suzanne. (2007). Fashioning the future. UK: Thames & Hudson Ltd.
Seymour, Sabine. (2008). Fashionable technology. Springer
Additional articles and essays according to separate list

Course evaluation

The course evaluation is based on the learning outcomes and of the course. It will be carried out both orally and in written form.