Critical and Contextual Studies: Designed Objects

Grasp the significance and role of designed objects in our daily environments.
Recognise the blend of function and aesthetics that characterises well-designed objects.
Appreciate the interplay of creativity, practicality and context in the conceptualisation and crafting of designed objects.

Consider the reflection of societal structures, technological progress and cultural ideals in the design of objects across time.
Acknowledge the impact of significant historical events and movements, such as the Industrial Revolution or the Art Nouveau movement, on the design of objects.
Trace the evolution of designs from practical utilities to artistic masterpieces, understanding their historical importance and influence.

Understand how economic, social, and technological factors can affect the nature and purpose of a designed object.
Recognise how different materials, production processes and usability requirements shape the design of an object.
Delve into factors like geography, era, demographic and culture that can impact the aesthetics, functionalities, and significance of designed objects.

Develop the ability to interpret and evaluate designed objects, identifying their aesthetic, functional and contextual attributes.
Understand how an object’s design can reflect the designer’s creativity, purpose, sentiment, and influence.
Spot the links between an object’s physical characteristics and its implied cultural, political or social statement.

Generate your own creative design ideas by taking inspiration from studied objects, their design principles and contextual details.
Consider how your design could serve a purpose, solve a problem, or make a statement.
Reflect and experiment with different materials, production techniques and design elements, always keeping the context and objectives in mind.
Combine originality with functionality and aesthetics, carefully considering cultural, social, and environmental implications of your design.

Cultivate a critical and analytical approach to understanding and assessing designed objects.
Understand the influence of various design movements and styles, and learn to identify their characteristics in objects.
Develop an ability to articulate design opinions, construct arguments, and engage in design-focused discourse.
Discover the role of ethical issues like sustainability and consumerism in design, and how they are handled in the industry.