Frequently Asked Questions
Blended Learning Interior Design Courses
HOW LONG IS THE COURSE?
The Blended Learning course runs over two academic years and 1 term. The course involves a
combination of distance learning study, on-line tutorials, practical workshops and one to one
tutorials held at KLC’s Studios in Chelsea Harbour.
WHAT IS THE STRUCTURE OF THE COURSE?
The first year of the course concentrates on technical knowledge. The second year concentrates on
developing these skills and moves on to commercial projects. The final term is made up of revision
sessions, exams, career advice and a portfolio surgery.
HOW OFTEN WILL I NEED TO ATTEND THE COLLEGE?
During the course you are required to attend workshops at the college. These are as follows;
Year One: One Week Foundation Course, 3 Saturday Workshops, 2 Weekday Workshops
Year Two: One Week Intermediary Course, 3 Saturday Workshops, 2 Weekday Workshops
Year Three: (One term only) 1 week Final Course
HOW MANY HOURS OF STUDYING WILL BE REQUIRED?
As the Blended Learning course runs to a time-table students are required to undertake a considerable
amount of work from home. On average students are required to complete 15 hours of study per week,
this includes study time for project work.
WHAT COMPUTER SKILLS DO I NEED TO COMPLETE THE COURSE?
Students are required to have a laptop computer for this course and have basic everyday computer
skills (e.g. using a mouse and keyboard, opening and saving files etc.)
In the first year you will need to be competent in sending and receiving e-mails as well as opening
and sending attachments. It is therefore essential that you have an e-mail account set-up. You
should also be competent with browsing the internet and using internet search engines. Throughout
the first year it is important that you build on your computer skills.
In the second year we will be teaching you 2D computer aided design. At this point you should be a
confident computer user and have a sound working knowledge of Microsoft Office software.
COULD I TAKE ON OUTSIDE WORK?
Based on our experience with previous students, we have found due to the demanding requirements
of the course, blended learning students find it difficult to commit to working full-time hours.
We would recommend students work no more than four days per week whilst studying.
WHEN CAN I CONTACT THE COLLEGE?
KLC tutors are available between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday (although we are closed between
Christmas and New Year). During these hours you contact a tutor by email, phone or in person by
appointment.
HOW DO THE ONLINE TUTORIALS WORK?
Students are required to attend online tutorials (about one per term) which are held by a KLC tutor
in a virtual classroom. These online tutorials will be given on specific subjects with a live video link
to the tutor, course notes and PowerPoint presentations. KLC uses Adobe Connect, which is a secure
flexible web communication system that allows on-line training, web conferencing and online
collaboration, and allows students to have an interactive experience with both the tutor and other
students in the classroom.
WHAT SORT OF PEOPLE ATTEND THE COURSE?
Due to the structure of the course students are able to study without necessarily having to give up
work or family commitments. No previous art or design experience is necessary, normally the entry
standard is a degree, but mature students with sufficient prior learning experience are particularly
encouraged. Students must be bright, motivated, able to cope with pressure and, above all else,
enthusiastic!
WHAT OTHER COSTS ARE INVOLVED?
KLC will provide students with a starter equipment pack. The main additional costs are stationery,
colour photocopying and postage costs for sending work. Students will need to purchase a drawing
board, have a broadband internet connection and will also need a computer and headset to
participate in the online tutorials.
HOW IS WORK ASSESSED?
Students are assessed on seven projects, which are made up of five design projects and two research
projects. At the end of the course there is a three-day final examination, which incorporates both
written questions and drawing skills.
WHAT ARE THE BACKGROUNDS OF THE TUTORS/LECTURERS?
KLC tutors and lecturers are all working professionals and include some of the country’s top
architects, interior designers, interior decorators and specialists.
HOW DOES THE COURSE PREPARE ME FOR A JOB?
Students are given an insight into professional business principles, procedures and practice. Topics
include budgeting, proposals, contracts, installation programmes, estimates, schedules, specifications, ordering and record keeping. We offer advice on CV’, portfolio presentation and career direction and, with many approaches from some of the leading design companies, we are often able to put graduates directly in touch with potential employers.
WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE KLC?
KLC School of Design offers quality, professional training in interior and garden design, delivered in a
unique, friendly, accessible and stimulating way. KLC has a policy to use only practicing professionals
for tuition and is committed to developing the creative potential of all its students. Based at Chelsea
Harbour by the prestigious Design Centre, KLC offers students a unique learning environment in
the heart of the industry. Through a combination of commercial and residential design projects
combined with the necessary business training, students gain the practical skills to successfully
change career. |
