Over the course of the programme, you will learn to handle data with confidence. You will be able to recognise the relevance of and risks associated with data and to communicate it in a meaningful way. You will apply modern design methods and be familiar with the design and infographic fundamentals. Narration and interaction will be key features of your holistic approach. The culture of constructive feedback is a core value in our mutual exchanges and in the reflection of assignments, as is the skilled presentation of complex information to our audiences.
Self-determined work is at the centre of our teaching. During the semester, each student is supported and supervised by a designated personal mentor or coach.
Students learn to handle data and databases confidently, critically and with caution. They understand the process of large volume data analysis and are able to communicate professionally with data analysts and scientists. In the theory modules, students gain an understanding of ethical issues relating to data, which they reflect on and discuss in the context of current data-based phenomena and projects.
Content:
- Reading, comprehension and visualisation of data bases and volumes.
- Developing an understanding of the context, target groups and goals related to data-based phenomena.
- Critical-reflective and ethical handling of data.
2. Visualisation of information (Data Vision)
Experts with ideas and a vision of how to use data-based information in a meaningful and comprehensible way are sought-after in many fields of activity. On one hand, data Vision centres around visionary concepts, and on the other, around the interaction between content, function and design.
Content:
- Advanced artistic fundamentals, layout design and typography
- In-depth study of infographic tools
- Various design methods and strategies, including iterative process (research, concept, design, realisation and implementation)
- Informed 3D modelling (specialisation)
3. Visual narration (Data Telling)
To make information comprehensible and memorable, it must be put in a context with the observer’s lived reality. Narrative concepts in a multi-dimensional visualisation of information enhance learning processes and allow for a sustainable knowledge transfer.
Content:
- Understanding narrative concepts as a rhetorical skill
- Introduction of various methodological concepts: exploration, explanation and curation
- Conceptual approaches to storytelling
4. Data Motion
Temporal and spatial change processes within a phenomenon can be visualised with the help of motion design. Students experiment with linear and non-linear animated and interactive narrative structures.
Content:
- Fundamentals of animation / informed motion design
- Temporal change as an infographic tool
- Techniques: Storyboard, animatic, 2D/3D animation
5. Interacting with data (Data Interaction)
Interactive applications invite the recipient to independently explore virtual information. This kind of engagement increases the recipient’s interest and triggers emotions that enhance the learning process. Using design-centric creative coding techniques, students playfully learn to create such meaningful interactions with data.
Content:
- Creative coding
- Generative processes and approaches to real-time visualisation
- Data management (availability, processes including access, qualiry and data protection)
Students design spatial and sonified data artefacts and exhibit them in walkable physical and virtual installations. They develop alternative types of access to immersive and multi-sensory experiences of data in three-dimensional space.
Content:
- Fundamentals of spatial and aural perception
- Representation strategies for data-driven spatial information
- Approaches to educational, data-based staging and communication in three-dimensional space
Specialist module
The specialist module comprises the areas of competence described above. The content is conveyed through theoretical information and applied in practical assignments and projects.
Compulsory theory courses (first semester):
- Fundamentals of design and infographics
- Fundamentals of media design
- Fundamentals of visual culture
- Research techniques, databases and artificial intelligence
- Writing workshop
Elective theory courses (selection for all semesters)
- Fundamentals of digital culture
- Media theory
- Culture theory
- Human Factors in digital design
Exchange modul
The courses in the exchange module complement the core competences acquired in the specialist module through additional skills and advanced knowledge. Some of the courses are exclusive to the Data Design and Art programme, while others are available to students across the Lucerne UASA’s Schools or include interdisciplinary projects with external partners.
Transfer modul
The transfer module contains modules covering universal theoretical fundamentals. These include topics such as academic work and writing, methodological skills and knowledge, layout and presentation techniques, business skills and languages. Students acquire theoretical and methodological skills and learn to present their work and articulate their reflections.
Concluding module
Students conclude their study programme with a bachelor’s thesis about a self-chosen topic. The bachelor's thesis consists of a written and a practical part. In their practical assignment, students explore a complex project through every stage of the design process. They are supervised by mentors and present their thesis in front of an expert panel and an audience during the final exhibition.
