Virtual Module Launch

As you know, the current pandemic has pressed pause on all social activity. We cannot go to work, have lunch with our friends or even go to the gym. It's a scary and confusing period. Lockdown regulations have dramatically changed the way we live. However, the show must go on; advanced technology means we can still connect with others, complete university tasks and work from our homes.

Most offices are temporarily closed; Harrison Stringfellow is one of them. Consequently, they've postponed my work experience. I'm frustrated as I was keen to work for professional designers and gain an insight into my future career. Fortunately, the firm has kindly allowed me to join them at a later date. My inability to get a placement, at this time, means I will have to participate in another project to pass the module. I am not the only student who is in this position; many others have had their work experience cancelled.

This morning we had the launch of our new, live brief. Microsoft Teams was the platform used to conduct the presentation. I didn't know how it would operate. I thought the video call would crash as there were several people on one stream. However, it worked quite well. It was an online adaption of our lectures at uni. Our tutors delivered relevant information about the project, client and photographs of the site; we had the opportunity to ask questions throughout the session. I think it's going to be hard to get support, during the project, as we won't have as many ones to ones as with our tutors. However, it is a self-directed project and mimics the design industry to ensure we have the experience we've missed out on as a result of the coronavirus.

The project is to refurbish specific areas of Oldham Greenhill Sports and Recreation Centre. After examining the photographs provided, it’s evident that it is going to be a challenging project. The centre doesn't have a cohesive scheme; I need to unify the finishes and create an inviting environment for its occupants. I am excited to get started; I think this project will motivate and distract me from the current situation.