The programme aims to challenge students to relate the theory of design to its application, to cultivate a multidimensional approach to design problems and to foster creativity leading to original solutions.
It also aims to develop students' research, administrative and
managerial abilities so as to produce well-rounded Design
professionals.
A graduate is empowered not simply through the knowledge
gained in an area of specialisation, but because of a mature
understanding of how that knowledge can be increased and put to
use.
How You Are Taught
Teaching strategies are divided into three main categories:
A.
Projects-Seminars-Exercises-Lectures
Every module is made up of a theoretical curriculum using
seminars and lectures, and a practical curriculum using exercises
and projects.
In seminars and lectures, students gain access to notes, slides,
video projections and the supporting bibliography. The broadcast
format of a lecture helps students capture the main topics while
discussion in seminars cultivates critical thinking and
multilateral communication. When needed, tutorials are also
offered.
Student progress is tracked by evaluating project work as well
as seminar/lecture participation through tests.
B. Auxiliary Study Methods
The knowledge and skills introduced using lectures, seminars and
projects are further enhanced through activities such as organized
visits to exhibitions, museums, factories, educational excursions,
participation in design competitions, the organization of student
exhibitions etc. These activities help students internalise key
concepts and see their application in real-world circumstances.
AKTO College has a long established relation with both the
industry and the artistic/creative community in Greece. This means
that through their course of study, students have the opportunity
to acquire up-to date information on any important events in their
field, such as festivals or important exhibitions and even take
part in them, along with known artists, before they finish their
studies.
The educational staff of the college are all successful artists
and professionals in their field, transferring to students valuable
experience and contacts. Due to the college's and tutors' links,
students also come into contact with important personalities in
their field, such as publishers, editors, well known curators,
owners of creative companies and production studios, directors from
TV channels etc and have the opportunity to show and discuss their
work and receive important feedback.
C. Supervised Independent Study
Independent study is a vital component throughout the whole
curriculum, where regular, recorded meetings with the supervisor
constitute the primary teaching method. The shift in focus from a
more instructive to a more independent form of learning is
consistent with the overarching educational policy of AKTO and in
synch with the application of the feedback assessment method. While
written examinations and assignments summarily confirm that
knowledge is registered by the student, independent study and the
corresponding one-to-one feedback formative assessment of the
student by the supervisor ensure this knowledge is embedded and
contextualised.
D. Assessment
Assessment is a vital part of the whole learning process. It
assists students and tutors in monitoring and evaluating students'
progress towards the achievement of learning outcomes for each
module. It also provides a basis for tutors to provide students
with appropriate feedback. Assessment at the end of each module
serves in evaluating students' capacity to progress onto the next
level of study. More specific information about assessment can be
found in the relevant paragraph an din the module descriptors.
Alternative Formats
The Master of Arts in Design is also tailored to professionals
who wish to undertake it on a part-time basis. In its lengthened
form the degree lasts for 5 semesters, and results in an MA degree
validated by Middlesex University.
A range of transferable skills is incorporated into the programme, so as to assist graduates in achieving a successful career and constantly develop as designers and professionals.
Independence of thought, originality of ideas and professionalism are the key parameters that are enhanced through both the curriculum and the organised, complementary activities that together form the educational experience.
The programme encourages a constant exchange of views, methods
and material through structured discussions and extra-curricular
exercises.
The programme is comprised of six obligatory modules, stretching
over three semesters, and resulting in a Master of Arts in Design
degree validated by Middlesex University. The
modules are divided evenly between tuition and research. The taught
subjects - Theory in Design, Technology in Design and Management in
Design - span the first two semesters. A Research Proposition, a
Research Development and a Main Project span the entire course.
At the postgraduate level, the main requirement is autonomous
and self-directed learning. This educational commitment is critical
in safeguarding students' ability to remain competitive.
The teaching methods include projects, theory-focused seminars,
lectures on related topics as well as workshops, presentations,
educational excursions and open design competitions. Student
participation and interaction is a key part of the process of
learning and growth.