This curriculum emphasizes developing comprehensive skills and understanding in vector art and design. Through hands-on projects, students will generate and manipulate imagery using Adobe Illustrator, integrating these creations into cohesive art and design projects that align with the principles of design and communication theory. Ethical considerations in electronic media will be a key area of discussion, encouraging students to navigate the moral implications of their work responsibly.
Additionally, students will participate in both individual and group critiques, sharpening their analytical and communication skills while fostering a collaborative learning environment. They will also develop effective presentation techniques for showcasing their work during critiques and assembling a professional portfolio. Finally, students will research and write a paper that demonstrates an understanding of the history and practice of contemporary advertising and graphic design, providing context and insight into their creative journey.
*** All work will be digitally submitted for grading via the class shared folder on Google.
There is no extra credit, alternative assignments, or make up work.
Medical Excuse is required for late assignments.
Credit Hours: 3
Computer Art and Design is an introductory course using digital media as a rich resource for artistic expression. It examines the computer’s unique capabilities and influence on traditional art forms such as design, printmaking, painting, and photography. The course will utilize current computer graphic design software. Basic computer knowledge is recommended before taking this course.
Course Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
demonstrate proficiency in using the Macintosh computer platform;
demonstrate a working knowledge of several important art and design applications used during the course;
discuss the potential of electronic imagery in image making and the effect of technology in art production;
generate and manipulate imagery graphically through electronic means and incorporate it into art and design projects in adherence to the general principles of design and communication theory;
discuss particular ethical issues that pertain to electronic media;
critique work individually and in a group context;
develop effective presentation techniques for critique and portfolio; and
research and write a paper demonstrating an understanding of the history and practice of contemporary computer art and graphic design.
Introduction to Digital Graphic Design is intended for beginning students interested in learning how to create and edit well designed graphics for professional use. Topics include fundamental 2D layout principles, developing vector and pixel based images for print and web, color theory, typography, graphic file formats and resolution. Weekly assignments keep you on track; 24/7 access gives you the flexibility to work at your own pace between deadlines.
Entry Requirements
Skills
Basic computer literacy which include:
• navigating an operating system (launching software, managing system settings)
• the ability to organize files and folders in a computer directory
• the ability to download and install software
• access the internet and navigate using URLS, search engines and links
• the ability to use online communication tools such as email, chat, discussion boards, and social media • the ability to send a and receive email messages and attachments
Hardware
Administrative access to a functional laptop or desktop computer manufactured within the past 5 years. Students will not be able to complete the course on a tablet. A reliable internet connection is needed as well.
Minimum Software
Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. The course videos were recorded using current Creative Cloud versions, however earlier versions will suffice.
Time
Plan on allotting between 3 to 6 hours a week on course work, depending on your computer skill level. Students must be able to meet assignment deadlines in order to stay on track and complete the course prior to it’s conclusion. An assignment and quiz are due weekly on Fridays.
Course Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:
• utilize valuable graphic design tool sets provided in industry-standard software to develop and edit bitmap and vector graphics
• apply 2-D design principles, including color theory, typography, and layout when creating and editing
digital graphics
• effectively communicate an idea or concept using vector graphics
• edit digital photographs to document an event, communicate an idea, or make a statement
• combine vector and bitmap graphics to produce a collage
• share and distribute digital graphics online utilizing proper formats and software tools
• present digital graphics for print production utilizing desktop publishing software
• create digital graphics to compliment web page design, or as a web page design
• critique digital graphic designs utilizing established 2-D design principles, and providing constructive suggestions
Course Materials
This course requires no textbook. Lessons are provided online by the instructor at the link below and through other free online resources.
Required Software
• Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop (Cleverbrush substitute)
Course Resources
This course uses several online resources:
Student Course Portal – Google Classroom, Google Drive.
Course Lessons Website - https://sites.google.com/frontiercsd.org/carlsonart/home
• Access all of your lessons and assignments here
Students should check grades frequently throughout the course. Any issues with grades on assignments and projects should be addressed when the grades are posted, not at the end of the course. The instructor does not participate in grade negotiations. If you have a medical excuse, inform instructor for grade change.
Meeting deadlines and time management are skills which will be invaluable to you in your working careers. Students should be engaged and check the weekly to do lists. All assignments are due on dates listed for each project or exercise. All assignments are expected to be submitted on time.
Course Lessons and Organization
The course is organized into 10 lesson assignments and corresponding quizzes. The class grade is based 1/3 on first semester, 1/3 on second semester and 1/3 on final portfolio.
Each lesson includes:
• a primary lesson objective topics which is skills-based and taught via video tutorials and download-able files
• assignments which will show comprehension of these topics and skills for grading
• a mini lesson that shows a quick and easy skill or resource