Common Module — AY25.26 CTSA

[khlishadn]

WOII || Summary

Looking back at all my WOII posts, I realised how much my way of seeing design has changed over time. At the start in

Week 1 with Phenomenology, it was more about personal experience, like how different people can see the same thing but feel completely different about it.

Then in Week 3, Semiotics made me more aware of how visuals actually communicate meaning through signs and symbols, which I started noticing more in everyday things without even trying.

Weeks 4 and 5, with the design analysis and field trip, felt more practical. I had to actually go out, observe, and think about design in real life, not just in theory. It made me pay attention to small details that I would normally ignore, like layout, colour, and how people interact with spaces.

By Week 9, Cultural Materialism made me realise that design is not just about how it looks, but also about the social and cultural context behind it. It showed me how design connects to real world issues and influences people in different ways.

Finally, Week 10 on Structuralism and Post-Structuralism challenged my thinking again, especially the idea that meaning isn’t fixed and can change depending on interpretation.

Overall, this whole journey made me more observant, more critical, and more aware that design is not just visual it’s something that carries meaning, context, and different perspectives.

[224 words.]

[khlishadn]

WOII || Week 10: Structuralism & Post-Structuralism

his week honestly made my brain work a bit harder than usual. Structuralism is basically about how everything follows a system or structure, like how meanings are built through patterns, symbols, and rules. In graphic design, it’s like using grids, alignment, and hierarchy to make things clear and organised. Everything feels controlled and intentional.

Then Post-Structuralism kind of flips that idea. It says meaning isn’t fixed and people can interpret things in their own way. So instead of everything being neat and clear, it can be messy, layered, or even confusing, and that’s okay. I found this more interesting because it feels more realistic to how people actually see things. When it comes to storytelling, structuralism is more straightforward, like a clear beginning, middle, and end. But post-structuralism breaks that structure and lets the story feel more open or abstract. In graphic design, this could mean breaking grids, overlapping elements, or experimenting with layouts that don’t “make sense” at first. For the activity, we had to rethink or deconstruct visuals, and it was kinda challenging at first because I’m used to making things look “correct.” But it made me realise that design doesn’t always have to be neat to be meaningful.

Overall, this week made me more open to experimenting and not overthinking if something looks “wrong,” because sometimes that’s the point.

[235 words]

[khlishadn]

WOII || Week 9 – Cultural Materialism

For this week, I chose Alexander Rodchenko and his poster for 'Man with a Movie Camera' . I picked this work because it’s very visually striking and feels quite intense, with the unusual angles and overlapping elements. It immediately caught my attention compared to more traditional posters.

From what I understood about Cultural Materialism from Marvin Harris, it’s about how a society’s material conditions, like technology and industry, shape culture and the way things are designed. In this poster, you can really see that influence. The buildings, the camera, and the mechanical feel of the composition reflect a time where industrialisation and technology were becoming very important in society. I also noticed how the human figure is combined with the camera, which kind of shows how people and technology are connected, almost like they depend on each other. It doesn’t just feel like a movie poster, but more like it’s promoting a modern, industrial way of life. I chose this piece because it clearly shows that design is not just about aesthetics. It is shaped by the time period, politics, and what materials or technology are available. Overall, this poster relates to Cultural Materialism because it reflects how society and its material conditions directly influence visual communication.

[225 words]

[khlishadn]

WOII || Week 4 & 5 | Design Analysis and Field Trip

During the field trip to New Bahru, I became more aware of how design is not just about aesthetics but about storytelling through space, material, and craftsmanship. One notable work I observed was a boutique retail interior that used raw concrete walls, stainless steel fixtures, and muted colour palettes. The craftsmanship was intentional exposed textures, minimal ornamentation, and carefully spaced product displays created a calm and curated atmosphere. This connects to my curated object grouping from last week under the theme of “Minimalism with Intent.” Similar to my previous objects, this design focuses on clarity, balance, and material honesty. The use of negative space and neutral tones emphasises the products without overwhelming the viewer. What makes this a meaningful addition is how it extends the idea of minimalism from small objects to spatial experience. It shows how the same principles balance, proportion, and unity can scale from product design to interior environments.

I grouped three works under the new theme: “Contemporary Craft & Cultural Identity.” The first was a café interior that incorporated traditional textures such as rattan and wood but presented them in a modern layout. The second was a lifestyle brand display that used handcrafted ceramics with imperfect finishes. The third was graphic branding within the space that used bold typography combined with earthy colours. Together, these works explore how traditional craft elements are reinterpreted in a contemporary context. The materials wood, clay, fabric reference heritage and craftsmanship, while the clean layouts and modern branding create contrast. This grouping is interesting because it shows a balance between past and present. Instead of copying tradition directly, the designers refine and modernise it. In terms of design principles, there is unity through material consistency, rhythm in repeated textures, and emphasis created through contrast between raw and refined surfaces. This theme highlights how New Bahru positions itself as a creative space that respects craft while embracing modern design language.

[374 words]

[khlishadn]

WOII || Week 3 | Semiotics

This poster is quite straightforward but really smart in how it shows meaning. It’s basically a Tabasco bottle designed to look like a fire extinguisher, which immediately makes you think of heat and danger. Like, if something needs a fire extinguisher, it must be intense — so it suggests the sauce is that spicy. The red background also adds to this feeling because red usually links to heat, fire, and warning. The line “Beware the Heat” just makes everything clearer and ties the idea together.

I chose this poster because it caught my attention instantly. It’s not complicated, but the idea is strong and kind of funny in a subtle way. It doesn’t need a lot of explanation to get the message across, which I think makes it effective.

What stood out to me the most is how simple everything is. There’s only one main visual, but it says a lot. Turning the bottle into a fire extinguisher is unexpected, and that’s what makes it memorable. It shows how a small visual twist can completely change how you see something.

Learned about semiotics and how meaning is constructed through signs. Semiotics helped me understand that design is not just about visuals, but about communication. Every image, colour, symbol, or composition acts as a sign that carries meaning. What I found most interesting was the relationship between the signifier (the form of the sign) and the signified (the concept or meaning it represents). It made me realise that meaning is not always fixed; it depends on cultural and social context.

I also learned that audiences interpret signs differently based on their background, experiences, and beliefs. This connects to my design practice because it reminds me that visual choices are never neutral. For example, certain colours can symbolise different emotions or cultural meanings. Typography, imagery, and layout all communicate messages beyond their functional purpose.

Another key takeaway was the idea that media and design shape how we see reality. Through repetition, certain signs can reinforce stereotypes or dominant ideologies. As a designer, this makes me more aware of my responsibility in constructing meaning. I need to think critically about what messages I am sending and how they might be interpreted.

Overall, learning about semiotics has strengthened my understanding of visual language. It encourages me to design more intentionally, considering not just aesthetics, but the deeper meanings and cultural implications behind every creative decision.

[ 401 words ]

[khlishadn]

WOII || Week 1 | Phenomenology

In Week 1, we were introduced to phenomenology and its focus on lived experience. What stood out to me is how phenomenology explores the world from a first-person perspective. Instead of analysing things only objectively, it encourages us to consider perception, memory, emotion, imagination, and embodiment. I realised that reality is not just something external, but something we interpret through our bodies and senses.

The concept of embodiment was especially meaningful. It suggests that the body and mind are connected, and that we understand space, objects, and design through physical experience. As a design student, this shifted my perspective. Design is not only about visual aesthetics, but about how people feel and interact with what I create. Elements such as texture, scale, colour, and composition can shape perception and emotional response.

I was also interested in how phenomenology connects to memory and imagination. Our past experiences influence how we interpret new designs. This means that audiences bring their own meanings to a piece, making design a shared and dynamic experience rather than a fixed message.

Overall, this session helped me see design beyond form and function. It encouraged me to think more critically about human experience and to design with greater awareness of perception, emotion, and social context.

[246 words]

[khlishadn]

Week 13: Compulsary Assessment Prep

One collaborative project I hope to pursue in the future is working with local musicians or small independent artists to create a documentary-style photography series. I want to capture not just their final performances, but the behind the scenes process rehearsals, brainstorming sessions, and the emotions they experience while creating their art. Working with them would challenge me to communicate better, understand their artistic direction, and adapt my style to match their personality. It would also push me to experiment more with lighting, composition, and visual storytelling, which are areas I want to keep improving.

Another long term goal I want to revisit is creating my own online brand for prints and photo zines. I’ve attempted this before, but managing school, work, and personal projects at the same time made it difficult to stay consistent. Even though I struggled back then, the experience taught me important lessons about planning, scheduling, and maintaining quality. Now that I understand my limits better, I hope to return to the project when I’m more prepared and able to commit fully. Building a brand from scratch is something I want to achieve because it’s a way for me to share my art more confidently.

I also dream of collaborating with cultural organisations such as the Malay Heritage Centre. Since I’ve always been drawn to traditional Malay aesthetics, I would love to create a photography series that highlights Malay architecture, fashion, textures, and cultural practices. My goal is to produce photos that are not only visually strong, but also meaningful in preserving heritage. Having this work displayed in a museum would be a huge achievement, and it would feel rewarding to contribute something that represents my identity and community.

CTSA has helped me build the confidence I need for these goals. I used to struggle with speaking up or expressing my ideas clearly, especially in group settings. Through discussions, reflections, and collaborative tasks, I’ve learned how to communicate more openly and listen more intentionally. These improvements will support me in future creative partnerships, school assignments, and my career as a designer or photographer.

[345 words]

[khlishadn]

Week 12: Compulsary Assessment Prep

STUDIO

Visual Thinking (mark and image making) CTSA helped me realise that even the simplest marks can hold meaning when they are placed with intention. Instead of drawing without thinking, I learned to observe shapes, textures, and forms more carefully. This made me more aware of how visuals can communicate emotions, ideas, and movement.

Research Frameworks (quotations, library) Through CTSA, I became more disciplined with research. I learned how to look for reliable information, compare sources, and use quotations properly instead of guessing or assuming. This skill helped me understand the importance of supporting my work with evidence and not just personal opinion.

Type & Language (layout) CTSA encouraged me to experiment more with layouts and typography. I stopped relying only on “safe” or common choices and started exploring different compositions. It made me think more deeply about how text and images work together to guide the viewer’s eye and deliver a message.

Typo Sensory (emotion of type) I learned that fonts are not just “design choices” — they carry mood and personality. CTSA taught me how to choose colours, weights, and typefaces that match the emotion I want to express. It also helped me understand how others might interpret the same font differently.

Hollywood Bling (rotoscoping) This task trained my observation skills. I had to slow down and analyse frame-by-frame movement, which required patience and attention. CTSA helped me understand how every small detail affects the final outcome.

Data Space (classification and narrative) Through CTSA, I learned the importance of organisation. Sorting objects by colour, size, and category taught me how structure can help build a clearer visual narrative.

Craft Workshop

Mark-making CTSA taught me to think about why I choose certain textures or patterns. Instead of using designs randomly, I now consider how each element supports the purpose of the artwork.

Positive–Negative (space and contrast) This activity helped me evaluate balance and clarity in my compositions. CTSA encouraged me to pay attention to spacing, contrast, and how shapes interact with each other to create meaning. [337 words]

[khlishadn]

Week 11: Compulsory Assessment Prep

Over the past weeks, the Critical Thinking Skills and Applications CTSA module has changed the way I approach my work and communication. At first, I thought CTSA was just about analysing information, but as the lessons went on, I realised it also teaches us to be aware of how we think, react, and collaborate with others. It made me slow down and reflect on why I make certain decisions, instead of just doing things on autopilot.

The module helped me recognise the importance of being open-minded. Whenever I faced a task or discussion, I learned to step back and consider different viewpoints before deciding. CTSA also made me more conscious of my emotions, especially during group activities, because the way I communicate can affect how others respond and how smoothly the work flows. Through this, I learned to be more patient, flexible, and intentional with my choices.

For the activity where we had to choose an animal that represents CTSA, my group selected an octopus. We felt the octopus symbolised adaptability, intelligence, and awareness. An octopus uses all its limbs independently, reacts fast to changes, and blends into different environments. This reminded us of how CTSA encourages us to multitask mentally to observe, question, analyse, and adapt. The octopus’ ability to camouflage also represents how we must adjust our thinking depending on the situation or perspective.

Working in a group made the task more meaningful because everyone shared different interpretations. Some noticed the octopus flexibility, while others focused on how it solves problems. Through the discussion, I understood the task better. My only regret was hesitating to speak up more. There were ideas I wanted to share but kept to myself. This showed me how important it is to participate actively, not only for the group but also for my own learning.

[303 words]

[khlishadn]

[Week 3 of Critical thinking] Growth mindset Q1. Describe an eventful moment you have experienced in this class, bearing in mind the key ideas of the day. One eventful moment I experienced in this class was during a group discussion where we explored the key idea of the day was how our individual experiences shape the way we perceive art and ideas. I remember feeling challenged when I had to explain my point of view on a controversial artwork, and hearing others interpretations really opened my mind. It pushed me to think more critically not just about art, but about communication and assumptions. That moment helped me realise that it isn’t only about analysing others ideas, but also questioning my own. It was a shift from just reacting, to reflecting. This experience stayed with me, because it taught me the value of respectful disagreement and how diversity of thought can deepen our understanding. It also made me more confident in sharing my opinions, knowing they’re part of a bigger conversation. Q2. Include selected images of your personal sketches, and explain them. In particular, which sketches did you like most? Which least? Why? I no longer have the physical copies of my Sec 3 sketches, I still remember them clearly because of the effort and emotion I poured into them. One of my favourites was a mixed-media piece that explored identity through fragmented portraits. I loved this sketch because it challenged me to express complex emotions using abstract techniques felt very personal. Another sketch I liked was a still life in charcoal; it helped me improve my control and observation skills. The one I liked least was a rushed landscape I did towards the end of the term. I remember feeling uninspired and under pressure, and the lack of effort showed in the final result. Looking back, even that sketch taught me something about discipline and time management. All these works were important steps in my creative journey, and I’m proud of the growth they represent, even if I no longer have them physically.

[Word count 299]

[khlishadn]

[Week 2 Critical Thinking] Collaborative Skills Q1. Describe your strengths and weaknesses as a collaborator. What did you do well, and what are some areas to improve? Discuss with reference to today’s activities. One of my strengths is that I’m open to other people’s ideas and try to make sure everyone feels included. I like hearing different opinions because it usually makes the outcome stronger. In today’s activity, I helped the group stay on track by reminding everyone of the task and suggesting who could take on which role. I also tried to encourage quieter members to share their thoughts, and that helped us come up with creative ideas together.

At the same time, one weakness I noticed about myself is that I sometimes hold back my own ideas if I feel they might clash with the group’s direction. For example, during the monument building task, I had an idea for a unique structure, but I didn’t say it out loud right away because I worried it might sound too random. Looking back, I think that hesitation stopped me from contributing fully. I want to improve on being more confident and speaking up, even if my ideas are a little out there, because those kinds of ideas can sometimes push the group further.

Q2. If you had more time and an unlimited money budget, how would you design the monument differently? Include pictures of the group work, and your personal redesign. If we had more time and an unlimited budget, I’d redesign our monument to be something more interactive and meaningful. Instead of just being a physical structure, I’d add digital screens that share the stories and messages behind the monument so visitors can connect with it on a deeper level. I’d also make sure the materials are sustainable, using recycled or eco friendly resources, so the monument reflects care for the environment as well. Another thing I’d add is a space where visitors can leave their own messages, drawings, or even digital notes. That way, the monument wouldn’t just be something to look at it would become something people can be part of, like a living memory that keeps growing with every visitor. [Word count 286]

[khlishadn]

[Week 1 Critical Thinking] What is Critical Thinking? Q1. Describe your understanding of critical thinking that you had before the class and reflect on what you may have learned. Before this class, I honestly thought critical thinking just meant thinking harder or questioning stuff. To me, it was like something you only use for essays, problem solving, or school projects. But through the lessons, I started to see it in a different way. Critical thinking isn’t just about finding faults or being skeptical, it’s more about slowing down, looking at things from different sides, and asking questions that actually matter. I also realised it’s about checking my own bias, which I never thought about before. Now I see it as something I can use every day, like when making choices or even when trying to understand people better. It feels less like an academic skill and more like a life skill. Q2. What have you learned about Mindfulness? How might you integrate this into your learning environment? When it comes to mindfulness, I used to think it was just meditation, sitting quietly with your eyes closed. But now I know it’s more about being fully present in the moment, without overthinking or judging yourself. What stood out to me is how it can actually help with stress and focus. For me, I think it’ll help a lot during presentations or when deadlines pile up, because I tend to overthink and panic. I plan to use small things like mindful breathing, short breaks, or just reminding myself to slow down. Even something simple like noticing my surroundings can help me reset my mind.

Q3. Describe an eventful moment you have experienced in this class.

An eventful moment for me was when I listened to my classmates share their reflections. It wasn’t just answers, it felt like real stories and thoughts. That made me feel more open to share mine too. It showed me how different perspectives can make a class feel less like a lecture and more like a conversation. [Word count: 268]