Visual Communications Syllabus
Course Overview
Students will be introduced to and learn various skills,
terminology, practices, and principles associated with current
design and publication techniques. These items will be taught
through: classroom lectures, assignments, and/or visual aids;
computer demonstrations, hands-on design projects, and
independent design assignments. The purpose of the class is to
create the annual edition of “The Viking” yearbook, which makes
this class extra special since it creates a finished product that
will be seen time and time again by thousands of people.
Grading and Participation Requirements
Because this is a lecture and laboratory class, the
emphasis on the understanding of desk-top design and publication
terminology through lectures, lessons, and the completion of
projects will curtain the majority of the class time and as a
result, the majority of the total points.
Student Supplies
The materials and supplies for the class are provided for
them. Since a majority of the class is hand-on design activities
and assignments dealing with the creation of the yearbook, the
school’s computers will be used on a daily basis.
Each student will occasionally be assigned one of the
departments digital cameras for use in completing class
assignments. The time required to complete the assignment is
defined, and the camera must be returned when due and undamaged.
Late return of the camera may result in loss of camera privileges
temporarily or permanent. Students may use their own digital
cameras for class assignments, but it is understood that the class,
and the school is not responsible for loss or damage to the camera.
Each student is expected to have a writing instrument with
him/her at each class meeting
Additional Assignments/Information
In addition to the above listed assignments, layout
projects, quizzes, and exams; students will need to purchase a
writing journal/notebook that they will be given addition
assignments as the course progress.