Common Module - AY25.26 WOII

The various topics covered in WOII have allowed me to change my perspective of the way I view and understand them. At first glance it seems as though it is not relevant as I struggled trying to understand and connect the topic to the design training. However, through the weekly reflection, I have developed and gained a better understanding of each topic and how it is being applied to both the design training and the outside world. 

This module has shaped me to be more open minded and appreciative of design work, not only through observation but also through critical thinking and reflection. The process of trying to make connections between the design training and the outside world itself in the weekly topic. 

Overall, WOII has allowed me to expand my exploration of the design process within design training. Being exposed to each topic has also introduced me to a range of historical and philosophical perspectives, helping me gain deeper knowledge of design.

Post Structuralism is an extension and critique of structuralism that challenges the idea of fixed meanings in design works. Paolo Antonelli explains that as technology advances, the form and functionality of design also change. After post-structuralism, functionality in design can evoke different emotional responses, such as delight or discomfort. This encourages users to rethink the designer’s intention and the process behind the design.

This week’s topic can be closely linked to the Studio Module in the design training. In Studio, we learnt the different types of Grid Systems. Grid System not only helps with the alignment of the layout but also visual consistency. Especially when designing a catalogue, the grid system helps structure the layout consistently, making the content more readable and recognisable for readers.

In the outside world, an example would be the recent debate surrounding the SMRT poster. One poster in the series shows a sign saying “ Don’t groom in public “ depicting two characters - one curling her eyelashes and another cutting her toenails. Many users on social media platforms such as Instagram and Tiktok questioned how applying makeup in public affects other commuters. Some even argued that the intended message was confusing as curling eyelashes does not appear to be comparable to cutting toenails in terms of public grooming.

In conclusion, post-structuralism shows that the meaning of design is not fixed and can be interpreted differently by audiences. This reflects how design meaning evolves through both the designer’s intention and the audience’s interpretation.

(245 words)

References :

Laura Chia, Ann Chen, BNB Diviyadhaarshini. “ Applying make-up on the MRT? Poster sparks debate on personal grooming on public transport.” The Straits Times, Apr 15, 2026.

Cultural Materialism is an anthropological framework which often focuses on how material and economic factors shape the culture. In an article, Neumüller once stated that, “ We wanted to make it clear that when we talk about photobooks we’re not talking about a secondary form of looking at images. We’re talking about a primary form, “. 

For example, in the real world of Economy & Finance. Due to advanced movement in technology reality, consumers can now make payment easily by just using their own smart device. With the current existence of cashless payment like Paynow & Paywave, lots of people have switched from traditional payment to cashless payment. With just one swipe, consumers can now easily check out their payment. This demonstrates how material conditions, such as technological advancement, influence human behaviour and shape cultural practices in everyday life.

In the Design Training, Cultural Materialism can be closely linked to the Photography module. In Photography, we learnt the different mediums used to create photographs and how the different mediums show how visual culture is being shaped by material conditions like technological realities. Through development, accessibility and the software evolution of image-making tools like Photoshop. 

Similarly, as Neumüller said, to better understand the clarity of a subject matter, it is important to understand the primary form of the factors behind it. This way, it allows us to focus on how the materiality factors shape the culture of it. 

(233 words)

References : 

Madeleine Morley. “ Barcelona’s Photobook Phenomenon May Have the Solution To Exhibiting Books” EyeOnDesign , 29 June, 2017

https://eyeondesign.aiga.org/has-barcelonas-photobook-phenomenon-exhibition-got-the-answer-of-how-to-exhibit-books/

Sheila Chiang, Timothy Goh. " Singapore taps digital payments everywhere, but cash still lingers," The Straits Times, 07 April, 2026

Design Analysis & Field Trip

In Design Analysis, it's not only about the design form of the object. There are more aspects to this. Such as the process and purpose. Also, the subject matter & meaning behind why it is design in a certain way.

This can be closely related to Studio Module in the Design Training. In Studio, we have to create various variables for an exhibition based on our chosen designer. After studying and researching about the designer, we have to imply the designer’s style into our design works. The designs of each deliverable bring its own meaning. Why it is designed in a certain way & why the element is used and placed in such a position that makes that design outcome to appear in a certain way. Overall, how does the design outcome closely link back to the designer & if it evokes an emotion that really screams the chosen designer.

As I further explored the shops in New Bahru, I stumbled upon a famous local Singaporean homegrown brand, Beyond the Vines. The uniqueness of the difference in the design and the materials of the different types of bags sold there caught my attention. The different types of bags cater to different people & they even offer a pet carrier bag. These can be categorised under Identity. This is because the different bags offered in store caters to the different personalities and values of the consumer. 

Therefore, just like what Kushagra Gupta quoted, “ A long lasting piece of work is one that allows one to have a relationship with it beyond its visual appeal, and becomes a source of joy and inspiration “. I have learnt the importance of how the meaning of the subject matter leads to the choices and uses of the medium. 

References:

Ritupriya Basu. “ The test of Time: How are designers creating long-lasting, impactful work? “ It’s Nice That, 2 May 2023.

Whenever you hear or see the word, ‘Aesthetics’, what comes into your mind? Well, aesthetics is not only about the beauty of an appearance. Beyond that, it is also about the sensory experience, emotion and judgement that it brings to users. 

In the design industry, companies like Weekdays’ and even Urban Kind focus on how users interact with their branding and how it supports their needs.

This week's topic can be closely linked to Studio, we have to create various deliverables for an exhibition project. One of the deliverables is a postcard. Due to modern technology, people no longer collect or even use postcards to communicate which makes this a challenge. In order to make the postcard more functional and useful, I have to think of ways that will make it user friendly. How does the form used in my design communicate the meaning behind it? How does the aesthetics of it derive from function when users look and experience it? 

Aesthetics in the outside world can be derived from how an object is being designed & how it evokes a sense of emotion to use. For example, the beauty of the Persian Rugs can be observed through the richness and harmonious colours and intricate patterns. The rug itself creates a sense of warmth and comfort to the user. Not only that, the designs of the Persian rugs reflect the cultural richness and the aesthetic atmosphere itself.

Therefore, aesthetics is not only about the nature of beauty but also about how it communicates meaning and is interpreted by others.

(258 words)

References : 

Sudi Jama. “ Weekdays redesign everyday pleasures in living colour.” It’s Nice That, 22 Oct.2025

https://www.itsnicethat.com/articles/weekdays-studio-graphic-design-discover-221025

Abbey Bamford. “ Nordic ancestry and natural aesthetics: Everland’s identity for Urban Kind.” Creative Boom, 4 June 2024

Phenomenology is a study based on “ lived experience “ . It seeks to understand the outside world through human interpretation and consciousness. As Fred Heinsohn quoted in his article, “ It is necessary to look at contents and topics from different perspectives, “. 

Phenomenology can also be applied in the design training. For example, in Photography, when analysing an image. An image can convey different emotions and perceptions to the viewers. The way on how the image socialises and engages the viewers. Through the thought process of denotative and connotative of the analysis of an image, it influences the different thinking and points of view through the different experiences.

In the real world, phenomenology can be analysed in situations such as the current Israeli-Palestinian conflict. People get updated on the current situation through the use of social media platforms like Tiktok, Telegram, Instagram and many others. Account handles like “ eyeonpalestine “ on Instagram offer insight, showing lived experiences of the individuals in real time.

Linking back to what Fred Heinsohn quoted, I strongly agree with it. It is important to look at a topic and hear the different perspectives. As each human being is unique in their own ways, they have different mindset and perspectives on the topic.

(203 words)

References : 

Ayla Angelos. “ Fred Heinsohn’s playful designs are shaped by queer and feminist theory.” It’s Nice That, 27 Jan. 2021

Each lesson I learnt in the Critical Thinking skills module is like adding an ingredient to a hotpot. Alone, every ingredient has its own distinct flavor. Together, as they simmer and mingle, they create the final dish. My professional career, carefully seasoned and ready for the world. 

Photojournalist. A journalist who uses photographs to tell news stories, creating visual narratives for newspapers, magazines and even online media. 

Question is “How do Critical Thinking Skills modules help with getting into my desired dream career?” Critical Thinking itself is the one of the important skills a photojournalist should have. It is like the key spice in the hotpot that brings everything together. As a photojournalist it is important for a photojournalist to provide factually accurate information. Seeking to convey the objective truth without altering it in a way that might totally change the meaning behind the image.

But I strongly believe that Growth Mindset is one of the most important skills that a Photojournalist should possess. Paul Weeks mentioned that “ Improvement comes from having the will to absorb failures and keep attacking new opportunities with an open mind,”. He also added that “Because tomorrow the growth mindset photographer will be back out there, a little better than yesterday,”. 

I will have to be open to receiving constructive feedback. And also, because as a Photojournalist, sometimes I am required to work in an unpredictable situation which I have to eventually learn how to adapt to. With a fixed mindset, I will not be able to grow and learn something from it.

Therefore, the lessons taught in these modules allows me to equip myself with skills that I will need in the future. As I prepare myself for the professional working industry. 

(288 words)

References:

Paul Weeks. “The Growth Mindset for Photographers.”, 500px, 2015

Licensing. “What is Photojournalism and Why is it Important?” The New York Times, 

Applying knowledge through cross-curricular integration feels like spreading peanut butter and jam across a slice of bread, distributing and connecting skills and knowledge taught across different modules. This approach shows how the CTS-A module is inter-connected with other modules, allowing students to apply what they have learnt in meaningful ways.  Similarly, at Shillington, AI is used as a supportive tool in the students' learning process.

This idea of applying knowledge across modules can be seen in Photography, where Critical Thinking is being applied during in-class photo reviews following the photowalk. Through these reviews, we learnt that ‘Critique’ helps to improve our photography skills. Photography is not only about capturing random shots but also involves critical thinking and conveying meaning in every image.

Similarly, in Craft, we explore new mediums and skills each week. Applying knowledge in practical ways. Tutors’ feedback during pin-ups helps us refine our work, make connections across modules, and demonstrates a Growth Mindset.

Thirdly, in Digital Skills, we use Digital Media like ‘Pinterest’ to find inspiration and reinterpret ideas for our Poster Assignment. Applying knowledge from the module while developing creative and technical skills.

Lastly, Studio is where Collaborative Skills are applied. Students work in groups during project activity launches and share resources collaboratively. For example, in our first project, Cool Hunting, we contributed photowalk documentation to a shared Google Drive folder. With these documents, we had to create a Digital Collage of our Photowalk location name, Funan. This collaborative approach makes work more efficient and productive. Whilst also, allowing us to integrate knowledge and skills picked up from different modules in a shared project. 

In conclusion, CTS-A is like peanut butter spread and jam on bread: the key takeaways from each weekly topic are being applied across other modules. Both Shillington and research on cross-curricular integration show that tools and knowledge support learning, without replacing human creativity and reinforcing applied knowledge.

(315 words)

References:

Tom May. “AI and Design Education: How students are incorporating AI tools into their work.” Creativeboom, 10 July. 2023.

Peiqi Ye, Xionghu Xu. “ A case study of interdisciplinary thematic learning curriculum to cultivate ‘4C skills’.” Sec. Educational Psychology, vol. 14, 2023, Front.Psychol.

Studies have shown that cats demonstrate a high level of emotional intelligence. Especially in the way they express and respond to emotions. According to Ramona Marek, a writer who specialises in pet behaviour. Quoted that “ Cats clearly have a superior ability to learn new information, mesh it with existing information, recall it, and use that information in other situations. “ This suggests that cats possess a powerful form of emotional intelligence that humans tend to overlook. Thus, it raises an important question: Can humans actually learn emotional intelligence from cats?

For instance, in the Design course, I should adopt a great emotional intelligence behaviour in my learning. As a designer, along the way, I will eventually receive feedback and/or even criticism from my tutors based on my work. Instead of being taken aback by criticism, I can view it as an opportunity as a room for improvement. I too can practice self awareness and proactive problem solving by asking my tutor for constructive feedback.

Additionally, as the school year progresses, assignments and projects start to pile up. I need to manage my time wisely.  By planning my assignments properly, I can avoid procrastination, being able to complete my work efficiently and to avoid unnecessary crashouts.

Similarly, working in a group setting, emotional intelligence also plays a key role. To work together effectively as a group, it is important to rely on the ability of both listening and understanding. Different people have their own perspective and own ideas. With great listening and comprehension skills, it creates a more supportive and productive environment to work together as a group. 

To sum up, I can approach feedback and deadlines calmly using emotional intelligence to guide my actions just like cats. Hence, I strongly believe that humans are actually able to learn emotional intelligence from cats.

(302 words)

References:

Ramona Marek, “ Feline Intelligence: How Your Cat’s Brain Works. “ Fear Free Happy Homes, 

Big Think. “ Daniel Goleman Introduces Emotional Intelligence. “ Youtube, 24 Apr. 2012. 

Relly Nadler Psy.D., M.C.C., “10 Reasons Why Teams Needs Emotional Intelligence.” Psychology Today, 6 July. 2017.

Tom May quoted that, “ When things go wrong, it’s not the end of the world. In fact, it could be the start of something fabulous “. These words capture the essence of a Growth Mindset.

During Craft Workshop, I have to try out various mediums and even pick up new crafting techniques. This can be in the form of physical or even digital works. For example, I have to create a NOTAN artwork using geometric shapes. Applying the fundamental design principles of balance. Frankly, I was actually struggling with the second exercise which was an asymmetrical digital collage of the artwork using Illustrator. As I have yet to fully grasp the concept and skills for the software, I found myself struggling with the task. 

There were occasions when I felt like wanting to give up and just whack an easy design. I eventually realised that it was not a good habit that I should be adopting. Despite the challenge faced, I was determined to put in my very best effort to submit a quality piece. Pushing myself to the best of my ability.

Through this, I have learnt the importance of perseverance through a Growth Mindset. I should not be giving up easily. Instead, I should be open to challenges and trying new things. Putting myself out of my comfort zone. 

(220 words)

References:

Edmund Chia. “ D-CM101: CTS A - Growth Mindset (with Damaris Carlisle) “ Youtube, 10 Sep. 2023

Tom May. “ How to embrace failure and turn it into a creative superpower. “ Creativeboom, 15 May. 2024. 

When you hear the word ‘Collaboration’, does a question ever arise in your mind? How do great ideas and moments of creative brilliance come about? In the Design industry especially, how does collaboration actually happen?

For example, in Studio, collaboration happens through skills applied from other modules like Digital Skills and even Crafts. Applying the knowledge and skills learnt thru softwares and even hands on experiences with various mediums and techniques. These are then pieced together to create an outcome - the final product of the project task. 

Whilst during Critical Thinking Studio, we worked together in a group of 4. Using 5W1H as a guide, to brainstorm ideas for our group project. Constructing a monument to the future. To ensure teamwork and collaboration within the group, we delegated tasks amongst each other before settling down with our work.

Just like what COLLINS VP and Creative Director Tom Elia of the work quoted, “It says that great ideas have always happened and will always happen when diverse groups of people are free to create together."

This depicts that in the Design Industry, collaboration can happen through group projects when different people come together to share their thoughts and ideas. As different people have their own unique point of view, strengths and even weaknesses. 

Aside from group projects, collaboration can also happen through existing knowledge and skills picked up. When a designer applies the existing knowledge and skills they learnt to create their design work.

(243 words)

References:

Dom Carter. “ Figma celebrates the power of creative collaboration in a new brand story by COLLINS. “ Creativeboom, 12 Oct.2022

According to Pooja Nansi, “ Failure is an opportunity. Creativity is by definition an experimentation “. 

Based on my own understanding of Critical Thinking, it is about being creative and reflective. The way one lets their thoughts process into thinking & viewing a situation in a more positive way. 

Being a designer, I will definitely face constant failures along the way. As per what Pooja mentioned in her lecture, failure is a constant friend to an artist. I should not give up easily when I face failure. 

This can be reference to the recent Formative Feedback week across all the different modules. Attaining a not so good grade does not equate to failure. Based on the feedback given, I should take this in as an opportunity to persevere and improve. Allows me to understand the module better.. The feedback given also helps me to know where the areas of improvement that I can work on are. 

Therefore, failing does not mean that is the end of the world. Instead, it opens up a new opportunity to see about the world itself positively. Taking it as an opportunity to experiment, create new ideas to achieve better in my own work. 

To improve the quality of my learning and daily life, I can practice mindfulness by taking big deep breaths as I sit or even lay down. Allowing myself to let the thoughts come and go. Taking a step back and so as to familiarize myself with the present moment. Experiencing greater sense of focus, calm and clarity.

(253 words)

References:

Pooja Nansi. “ Asking Questions and Embracing Failure.“ Youtube, 15 Aug. 2021.

Headspace. “ A meditation to Enjoy Alone Time. “ Youtube, 6 Apr. 2022. 

TED. “ All it takes is 10 mindful minutes. “ Youtube, 12 Jan, 2013