JCU Logo

JOHN CABOT UNIVERSITY

COURSE CODE: "AS 101-1"
COURSE NAME: "Introduction to Graphic Design"
SEMESTER & YEAR: Fall Semester 2012
SYLLABUS

INSTRUCTOR: Schmidt Sabrina
EMAIL: [email protected]
HOURS: M 9:00-11:45
TOTAL NO. OF CONTACT HOURS: 45
CREDITS: 3
PREREQUISITES:
OFFICE HOURS: by appt.

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
The objective of this course is to learn the basic principles of design, and to apply these principles to practical exercises. Under the supervision of the professor students will do a series of graphic design projects that address those basic principles of design. This course will illustrate how good communication provides information that is clear and accessible.
SUMMARY OF COURSE CONTENT:
This is an introductory level course – open to all students – and particularly those that do not intend to be a professional designer or have background in design. This course teaches basic principles of graphic design and explores methods of utilizing visual design to put together effective communications and in doing so, make a good professional impression. It provides an introduction to visual communication and problem solving, and complements other courses including business, management, marketing and communications.

This course offers practical and useful advice on how to work with graphics in reports, presentations, newsletters, and proposals in sophisticated, professional, and interesting ways. It demonstrates how to create PowerPoint files that support and enhance rather than weaken a presentation. It presents an overview of how graphic design firms further business objectives and create effective management communications.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
Attention to the basic principles of design and typography, including: visual hierarchy, flow of information, composition, alignment, contrast, etc.
Document design: how to use basic page layout and typography to effectively communicate a message.
Using photos and illustrations: how to research, choose and compose photographs and illustrations to be interesting and reinforce a message, and how to integrate them with text.
Creating tables and graphs: designing graphs and tables that show data effectively and clearly.
Using color: guidelines for applying color in graphics and presentations, basic color theory, the meaning of colors, color relationships.
Working with Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, PowerPoint to create well-designed, coherent presentations.
Concept: How to develop a strong visual concept based on given communication requirements.
TEXTBOOK:
NONE
REQUIRED RESERVED READING:
NONE

RECOMMENDED RESERVED READING:
Book TitleAuthorPublisherISBN numberLibrary Call NumberComments
Profile: Pentagram DesignSusan YelavichPhaidonISBN 0-7148-4377-6  
The Art of Looking SidewaysAlan FletcherPhaidonISBN 1-7148-3449-1  
GRADING POLICY
-ASSESSMENT METHODS:
AssignmentGuidelinesWeight
ParticipationTimely presence is mandatory. Active participation is expected of all students; participation is considered an integral part of the course and is expressed by the level of interest shown, the ability to think conceptually, the ability to analyze a piece of design, the ability to solve a design problem, the quality of execution and the timely delivery of the finished design exercises.30%
Oral presentationEach student has to give one presentation of a specific design project done in class. The presentation of 5-10 minutes has to be accompanied by a written concept (1 page). Date of presentation as best related to the class schedule.10%
Midterm testThe midterm test consists in designing an appropriate solution to a specific design task. Date: 15th October; time: 9:00-11:45 (tbc); meeting place: Mac Lab at Largo Fiorentini 3.20%
Final examThe final exam consists in designing an appropriate solution to a more complex specific design task. Date/time: tbd; meeting place: Mac Lab at Largo Fiorentini 3. The exams are structured to assess the students' capability to apply the basic principles of design. The exams are based upon lectures and practical exercises that address the basic principles of design.40%

-ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
A:  Work of this quality directly addresses the question or problem raised and provides a coherent argument displaying an extensive knowledge of relevant information or content. This type of work demonstrates the ability to critically evaluate concepts and theory and has an element of novelty and originality. There is clear evidence of a significant amount of reading beyond that required for the course.
B:  This is highly competent level of performance and directly addresses the question or problem raised.
There is a demonstration of some ability to critically evaluate theory and concepts and relate them to practice. Discussions reflect the student’s own arguments and are not simply a repetition of standard lecture and reference material. The work does not suffer from any major errors or omissions and provides evidence of reading beyond the required assignments.
C:  This is an acceptable level of performance and provides answers that are clear but limited, reflecting the information offered in the lectures and reference readings.
D:  This level of performances demonstrates that the student lacks a coherent grasp of the material.
Important information is omitted and irrelevant points included.In effect, the student has barely done enough to persuade the instructor that s/he should not fail.
F: This work fails to show any knowledge or understanding of the issues raised in the question. Most of the material in the answer is irrelevant.

-ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS:
All scheduled classes are mandatory. Students must be punctual at all times. Late arrival will be noted and may affect a student's grade. Students are allowed one unjustified absence; every unjustified absence thereafter will result in the lowering of a student's grade. Attendance will be taken at each class. Work is due by the established deadlines. Work handed in after the deadlines affects a student's grade. Make-up work is allowed in exceptional circumstances only.
ACADEMIC HONESTY
As stated in the university catalog, any student who commits an act of academic dishonesty will receive a failing grade on the work in which the dishonesty occurred. In addition, acts of academic dishonesty, irrespective of the weight of the assignment, may result in the student receiving a failing grade in the course. Instances of academic dishonesty will be reported to the Dean of Academic Affairs. A student who is reported twice for academic dishonesty is subject to summary dismissal from the University. In such a case, the Academic Council will then make a recommendation to the President, who will make the final decision.
STUDENTS WITH LEARNING OR OTHER DISABILITIES
John Cabot University does not discriminate on the basis of disability or handicap. Students with approved accommodations must inform their professors at the beginning of the term. Please see the website for the complete policy.

SCHEDULE

Meeting place for all sessions: Mac Lab, Largo Fiorentini 3

Sep 3
Session focus: Introduction; Design a logotype

Sep 10
Session focus: Create a moodboard

Sep 17
Session focus: Design a pictogram

Sep 24
Session focus: Design a leaflet

Oct 1
Session focus: Design a leaflet contd.

Oct 8
Session focus: Visualize data in form of graphs

Oct 15
Session focus: Midterm

Oct 22
Session focus: Didactic illustration

Oct 29
Session focus: Redesign an existing design

Nov 5
Session focus: Design a logo

Nov 12
Session focus: Design a logo contd.

Nov 19
Session focus: Design a bookjacket

Nov 26
Session focus: Design a bookjacket contd.

Dec 3
Session focus: Design a packaging

Date tbd
Final exam