Spring 2026

This is the first in a series of Interdisciplinary Design Projects that continue in each year of the programme. The module integrates the skills and knowledge acquired on the programme to date. However, it goes beyond that in terms of integration in as much as you will work within interdisciplinary groups from across the SETEC undergraduate programmes. Further, as the programme gains new cohorts, you will also work with students in ‘vertical’ cross-cohort disciplinary groups where you are given the opportunity for peer-to-peer learning. The aim is to begin developing skills in design through a series of design tasks that require the development of a range of options that would satisfy the design problem, and introduce the ways that professionals work collaboratively in design. These projects will usually be related to one of the key contexts adopted by SETEC, e.g. the UN Sustainable Development Goals and industry collaboration. The modules, and the ensuing design modules provide the basis for a continuing process of self-reflection and personal development. A design brief will be set that introduces you to challenges that provide context for design, construction and operation/maintenance of built environment artefacts. You will work in inter-disciplinary (and vertical cohort disciplinary where appropriate) teams, to identify and produce a concept design. You will learn about creativity in design, effective processes for rationalising ideas and solutions, how to integrate and balance professional roles and perspectives, and effective teamwork and communication of possible design solutions. It will involve elements of design including form, function, space texture, balance, rhythm, emphasis, proportion and unity. It will involve producing designs expressed in hand drawings and computer aided drawings and physical models. It will also require plain language concise descriptions of the problem, the design process and the outcome design. There will be taught elements by either lecture or seminar / workshops which include an introduction to ethics, equality and diversity, project planning, site layout, risk management, environmental assessment, Health and Safety management techniques, searching for relevant literature, summarising literature, writing of technical prose and critical thinking. You will begin their planning and recording of self-learning and development as the foundation for lifelong learning / CPD. This will be continued within each Interdisciplinary Design Project at each level of the course. Level 4 modules are designed wherever possible to have a focus on preparing you for university life through various initiatives that foster growth. This module is designed to support you in your transition into Higher Education while developing essential skills to enhance success. There are a number of additional support initiatives which you can engage with, which include induction sessions, academic guidance tutors (AGT), student support coaches, mentoring programmes and various areas of digital support. Note: To pass this module, Civil Engineering students must achieve a weighted average of 40% or above across all pieces of summative assessment, and a mark of 30% or above in each separate assessment.