PROGRAM: Digital Communication Department
COURSE NUMBER/NAME: ARTC 2347 – Design Communication II
CLASS NUMBER & SEMESTER: 72606 – Spring 2011
CREDIT 3 (2 lecture, 4 lab)/ 16 weeks/ 64 hours per semester
WEB ENHANCED COMPONENT: 32 hours
WHERE: West Loop Campus - Room 131
WHEN: Monday/1:30 – 5:30 pm
Instructor: Margo Reece
Telephone: 713-718-7903
Email: margo.reece@hccs.edu
Office hours: Wednesday 9am – 1:00 pm
Office location: West Loop Campus, room 139B
Concerning office hours: Making an appointment to meet with me is always preferred. You
may drop in during office hours but be aware that another student may have an appointment
scheduled during the time you choose to drop in and you may have to wait, or come back at
another time. Please be sure you keep the appointment you make and if you cannot, let me
know via email 24-hours in advance so I can schedule another student during that time (this is
simple professional courtesy and I will act in kind). If your question does not require discussion
you may contact me via email with any course specific question or concern that you may have.
Remember that the syllabus, the schedule and the assignment handouts are your friend—read
carefully. Those documents are very detailed and contain most of the information you need to
meet course requirements.
Course Description
An advanced study of the design process and art direction. Emphasis on form and content
through the selection, creation, and integration of typographic, photographic, illustrative, and
design elements.
Prerequisites/ courses you must have taken/passed:
Digital Imaging I, ARTC 1302 (Photoshop)
Basic Graphic Design, ARTC 1305
Basic Illustration, ARTC 1309
Design Communication I, ARTC 1317
Intro to Computer Graphics, ARTC 1325
Computer Illustration, ARTC1353 (Illustrator)
Digital Publishing II, ARTC 2313 (InDesign)
Typographic Design, ARTC 2317
Course Goal
This is a fourth (last) semester project-based course focusing on the integration of type, images
and other design elements within a page layout for purposes of graphic communication in print.
Creative projects utilizing the “design process” are the means by which students apply their
knowledge of visual elements, the principals of design and graphic’s techniques within the
development of their own style. An objective of this course is to emphasize the development of
conceptual problem solving (art direction) skills that distinguish graphic communication
designers from desktop technicians. Projects will incorporate traditional and digital graphic
methods. It is expected that the student has taken and passed all the prerequisites, has
substantial software skills, and is very proficient working in Adobe InDesign, Illustrator and
Photoshop. This is not a software course.
Student Learning Outcomes
The student will:
Differentiate between content and form
Understand and have practiced the design process fully in all projects producing hard copy of
research, brainstorming, thumbnails, comps and final for all design projects
Demonstrate use of the Internet as a resource for research on project and course topics
Comprehend the importance of concepts (ideas) in the art direction of advertising design
Demonstrate the application of the elements and principles of design in design projects
Demonstrate ability in writing, proofing and editing copy
Demonstrate professional practice (knowledge, technical skill, creativity) in design through
page layout, selecting and setting type, selecting and placing appropriate visuals for print
Demonstrate improved professional interpersonal, written and verbal communication
Demonstrate professional behaviors in completing all projects
Demonstrate professional behaviors in meeting all deadlines
Demonstrate professional behaviors in attendance and punctuality
Produce portfolio quality pieces.
Learning objectives
Students will:
Understand the difference between content and form
Study, understand and utilize the design process fully for every project including research,
brainstorming, thumbnails, comps and final for all design projects
Practice solving design problems conceptually i.e. ideas and through art direction
Practice and apply the elements and principles of design in all projects
Seek, practice, improve and demonstrate skill in writing, proofing and editing copy
Practice and demonstrate knowledge, technical skill and creativity in designing and producing
page layouts, selecting and setting type and placing visuals for print communication
Demonstrate skill in the making, graphic interpretation, and technical preparation of
images (illustrations and photography) for print communication
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Practice and strengthen professional interpersonal, written and verbal communication
Practice professional behaviors, self-discipline, and perseverance in completing projects
Practice professional behaviors in meeting all deadlines
Practice professional behaviors in attendance and punctuality
Utilize the Internet as a resource for research on project and course related topics
Produce portfolio quality pieces.
SCANS or Core Curriculum Statement and Other Standards
Credit: 3
“Personal Qualities” F13, 15, 16,17 (note the following definition) – The student will display a
high standard of optimism in approaching and completing tasks. Throughout the course, the
student will exert a substantial, sustained level of effort and persevere toward goal attainment,
work to become proficient at doing tasks by setting high standards, paying attention to details,
working cheerfully, even when assigned a challenging task, and REMAIN FOCUSED ON THE
CLASS AND COURSE CONTENT. F1 Reading, F2 Writing, F5 Listening, F6 Speaking, F7 Creative, F8
Decision Making, F9 Problem Solving, F10 Seeing Things in the Minds Eye
16-WEEK CALENDAR
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Instructional Methods
Each class will be spent in project discussions, project labs or project critiques.
Student Assignments and Projects)
Assignments have been developed that will enhance your learning and contribute to your
understanding of visual communication through design. Students are required to successfully
complete the following:
Web-Enhanced Content Exercises (WEC)
Web-enhanced components are designed to complement and expand upon project problems.
Sketchbook/Journal Exercises (SBJ)
Exercises are designed to prepare the student for the current project or to expand upon and
reinforce learning in recent project concepts and problems.
On Submitting Assignments
1. Do not attempt to turn in work to the instructor prior to the due date. Work will NOT be
accepted in advance of the class due date.
2. Work will only be accepted in class! DO NOT drop off your work in the Digital
Communication office, my office or mailbox, or under the door of the classroom. Work
will not be graded and will earn a”0” unless it is turned in to me in class.
3. Sketchbook (SKJ) - All exercises must be completed in the order assigned. Indicate the
Unit # and section (ex. Unit 1-4) at the top of each page. Print your name prominently
on the front in black marker
4. Web-Enhanced Exercises (WEC) - Must be stapled in the order assigned in your
sketchbook. Indicate the Unit # and section (ex. 1-4) at the top of each page of printed
research.
5. Final Projects - Your name, copyright symbol and year must be printed on the project
appropriately. Print it very small and place it in an unobtrusive spot. If in doubt ask!
6. Any sketchbook, exercise, project component or final project turned in for grading
without a name as directed above will be returned to you ungraded and will be counted
late with 20 points off your earned grade.
7. Late assignment requirements:
a.
Late work will only be accepted in class exactly one week from the due date. No
work will be accepted after that deadline. Work not turned in will earn a”0”
(zero). Late work must be turned in to the instructor at the beginning of class,
the following week (when your name is called as the roll is taken). NO
EXCEPTIONS!
b.
Late work meeting that deadline will be penalized by a reduction of 20 points off
the earned grade. See below for applicable criteria as defined in “Project Critique
Days”.
c.
Late work will not be critiqued (no feedback), will be graded late, and returned
late.
*See below “Class Project, Presentation, Exam Days” for additional information.
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1. In critiques students will be asked to make observations about each other’s work. Verbal
or written comments may be required. Polite but honest objectivity is essential to
productive discussion.
2. You are required to take notes during every critique on comments & feedback
concerning your work. After each critique staple your notes into your sketchbook.
3. Final Critiques - Final projects are generally due every 4 weeks on average. If you are
present in class but your final project work is not complete and ready for class critique—
deduct 20 points from your earned grade. You will have one week (the following class
meeting to turn in your work). If you do not meet that deadline you will have earned
a”0” (zero) for that project. No late work will be accepted after one week.
4. Final Critique participation and feedback are essential to your development. You are
required to be present with your own work in class critique. If your project is complete
and in class but you are not present in class to present it—deduct an additional 10
points from your grade.
Instructional Materials
In a project based class it is critical that you come to class prepared with the materials for that
project. Failure to have ALL the necessary materials (including your sketchbook!) in class with
you each week to work in-class on your current project will result in a 10-point reduction for
that project. You must work during class on your project. Be prepared!
1. TEXT in class everyday: Graphic Design for Non-Designers: Essential Knowledge, Tips,
and Tricks by Waterhouse and Landers © 2009, pub. Princeton Architectural Press.
2. You are required to use the Internet and library for research.
3. Art supplies (see supply list) for making thumbnails and comps.
4. Pencils and pens in every class!
5. Notepaper in every class!
6. Sketchbook in every class!
7. One ream of LASER paper (500 sheets). Not multipurpose or copy paper!
8. USB or FireWire drive to transport your digital files.
9. A digital camera to photograph project subject matter.
10. Color printing is required throughout the course. Students are responsible for paying
for all the required color printing and getting printing done before the class due date.
Some assignments will require color printing at 11x17 and/or 13x19 inches or possibly
larger.
a.
If you have a color printer and paper you can print at home up to
whatever size your printer can accommodate.
b.
Color printing in our department is limited to 4 prints per advanced
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c.
course for $25.00 and will require you to print during a designated lab
time with the trained lab assistant (Michael Ladin). Be sure you
deliver your file to Michael prepared for printing according to
department specifications.
You may color print at any service bureau or any place that does color
digital printing. Buyer beware…

Be sure your file is properly prepared for the particular output device.
Call them ahead of time.

Make sure you are working with trained, experienced personnel.

Check your print thoroughly before you pay for it! Do not leave
without looking carefully at the print you contracted for! Do not
accept or pay for bad prints that are not your fault.
HCC Policy Statement - ADA
Services to Students with Disabilities
Any student with a documented disability (e.g. physical, learning, psychiatric, vision, hearing,
etc.) who needs to arrange reasonable accommodations must contact the Disability Services
Office at the respective college at the beginning of each semester. Faculty is authorized
to provide only the accommodations requested by the Disability Support Services Office. For
questions, please contact District ADA Coordinator Donna Price at 713.718.5165 or the
Disability Counselor at your college.
Southwest College ADA Counselor - Dr. Becky Hauri - 713.718.7910
To visit the ADA Web site, please visit: www.hccs.edu
then click Future students, scroll down the page and click on the words Disability Information.
HCC Policy Statement: Academic Honesty
A student who is academically dishonest is, by definition, not showing that the coursework has
been learned, and that student is claiming an advantage not available to other students.
Instructors are responsible for measuring each student's achievements and also for ensuring
that all students compete on a level playing field. Thus, in our system, the instructor has
teaching, grading and enforcement roles. You are expected to be familiar with the College’s
policy on Academic Honesty, found in the catalog. What that means is: If you are charged with
an offense, pleading ignorance of the rules will not help you. Students are responsible for
conducting themselves with honor and integrity in fulfilling course requirements. Penalties,
and/or disciplinary proceedings may be initiated by College System officials against a student
accused of scholastic dishonesty. “Scholastic dishonesty”: includes, but is not limited to,
cheating on a test, plagiarism, and collusion.
Cheating on a test includes:
 Copying from another students’ test paper;
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Using materials not authorized by the person giving the test;
Collaborating with another student during a test without authorization;
Knowingly using, buying, selling, stealing, transporting, or soliciting in whole or part the
contents of a test that has not been administered;
Bribing another person to obtain a test that is to be administered.
Plagiarism means the appropriation of another’s work and the unacknowledged incorporation
of that work in one’s own written or visual work offered for credit.
Collusion mean the unauthorized collaboration with another person in preparing written or
visual work offered for credit.
Repercussions for academic dishonesty may include a grade of 0 or F in the particular
assignment, failure in the course, and/or recommendation for probation or dismissal from the
College System. (See the Student Handbook!)
HCC Policy Statements
Class Attendance - It is important that you come to class! Attending class regularly is the best
way to succeed in this class. Research has shown that the single most important factor in
student success is attendance. Simply put, going to class greatly increases your ability to
succeed. You are expected to attend all lecture and labs regularly. You are responsible for
materials covered during your absences. Class attendance is checked daily. Although it is your
responsibility to drop a course for non-attendance, the instructor has the authority to drop you
for absences in excess of HCC’s policy (see next paragraph).
If you are not attending class, you are not learning the information. The information that is
covered in class is vital for your success. Students may be dropped from a course after
accumulating absences in excess of 12.5% hours of instruction. The eight hours of class time
(two 4-hour classes or four 2-hour classes) would include any total classes missed, excessive
tardiness and/or leaving class early.
You may decide NOT to come to class for whatever reason. As an adult making the decision not
to attend, you do not have to notify the instructor prior to missing a class. However, if this
happens too many times, you may suddenly find that you are no longer in the class.
Note: If you miss any class, including the first week, you are responsible for all material missed.
INFORMATION COVERED IN CLASS WILL NOT BE REPEATED FOR TARDY OR ABSENT STUDENTS!
If you must miss class it is your responsibility to make arrangements with another student to
take notes and provide you the class handouts for what you missed.
Class attendance frequently equals class success.
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Punctuality (instructor’s course policy)
Keep in mind that being late or leaving class early are missed hours of instruction. Class begins
at the time indicated in the schedule. You will be counted late if you are not in the classroom to
answer the roll when your name is called. Being late to class is rude, disruptive to your fellow
students and the instructor, and reduces your class participation time.
 There will be no repetition of information for students that are not in class.
 Being late or leaving before class is dismissed four (4) times will equate to one absence.
 NOTE: Being late 30 minutes or more will be counted as one absence.
 If you come in late to class do not disrupt the class—come in quietly.
 Class is not over until the instructor dismisses you.
HCC Course Withdrawal Policy
If you feel that you cannot complete this course, you will need to withdraw from the course
prior to the final date of withdrawal. Before, you withdraw from your course; please take the
time to meet with the instructor to discuss why you feel it is necessary to do so. The instructor
may be able to provide you with suggestions that would enable you to complete the course.
Your success is very important. Beginning in fall 2007, the Texas Legislature passed a law
limiting first time entering freshmen to no more than SIX total course withdrawals throughout
their educational career in obtaining a certificate and/or degree.
To help students avoid having to drop/withdraw from any class, HCC has instituted an Early
Alert process by which your professor may “alert” you and HCC counselors that you might fail a
class because of excessive absences and/or poor academic performance. It is your
responsibility to visit with a counselor to learn about what, if any, HCC interventions might be
available to assist you – online tutoring, child care, financial aid, job placement, etc. – to stay in
class and improve your academic performance.
If you plan on withdrawing from your class, you MUST contact a HCC counselor or your
professor prior to withdrawing (dropping) the class for approval and this must be done PRIOR
to the withdrawal deadline to receive a “W” on your transcript. **Final withdrawal deadlines
vary each semester and/or depending on class length, please visit the online registration
calendars, HCC schedule of classes and catalog, any HCC Registration Office, or any HCC
counselor to determine class withdrawal deadlines. Remember to allow a 24-hour response
time when communicating via email and/or telephone with a professor and/or counselor. Do
not submit a request to discuss withdrawal options less than a day before the deadline. If you
do not withdraw before the deadline, you will receive the grade that you are making in the class
as your final grade.
Repeat Course Fee
The State of Texas encourages students to complete college without having to repeat failed
classes. To increase student success, students who repeat the same course more than twice,
are required to pay extra tuition. The purpose of this extra tuition fee is to encourage students
to pass their courses and to graduate. Effective fall 2006, HCC will charge a higher tuition rate
to students registering the third or subsequent time for a course. If you are considering course
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withdrawal because you are not earning passing grades, confer with your instructor/counselor
as early as possible about your study habits, reading and writing homework, test taking skills,
attendance, course participation, and opportunities for tutoring or other assistance that might
be available.
Classroom Behavior
As your instructor and as a student in this class, it is our shared responsibility to develop and
maintain a positive learning environment for everyone. Your instructor takes this responsibility
very seriously and will inform members of the class if their behavior makes it difficult for
him/her to carry out this task. As a fellow learner, you are asked to respect the learning needs
of your classmates and assist your instructor achieve this critical goal.
Use of Camera and/or Recording Devices
As a student active in the learning community of this course, it is your responsibility to be
respectful of the learning atmosphere in your classroom. To show respect of your fellow
students and instructor, you will turn off your phone and all other electronic devices, and will
not use these devices in the classroom unless you receive permission from the instructor.
Use of recording devices, including camera phones and tape recorders, is prohibited in
classrooms, laboratories, faculty offices, and other locations where instruction, tutoring, or
testing occurs. Students with disabilities who need to use a recording device as a reasonable
accommodation should contact the Office for Students with Disabilities for information
regarding reasonable accommodations.
Concerning Cell Phones/ Pagers
Cell phones and beepers must be turned OFF before entering the class. Cell phones or beepers
may not be utilized in the classroom at any time. It is extremely rude to talk on the phone in a
classroom—never answer or talk on the phone in the classroom. You may check your messages
during the allocated break time outside of the classroom. If your phone rings during class I will
deduct 5 points from your project grade for that unit. If you answer or talk on a cell phone in
the classroom I will deduct 10 points from your project grade for that unit. Note: If you have a
real emergency and feel you must take a call, quietly leave the room before answering.
Concerning MP3 Players
MP3 players (ipods, etc.), or earphones of any sort are not permitted during class time.
Instructor Requirements
As your Instructor, it is my responsibility to:
 Provide a course syllabus and schedule
 Provide the grading scale/formula as to how student grades are determined
 Facilitate an effective learning environment through lectures, discussion, class activities
assessments, and outside assignments
 Provide a description of projects, presentations and assignments
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Inform students of policies such as attendance, withdrawal, tardiness, late work, test
make-up (if permitted)
 Arrange to meet with individual students as needed.
Student Requirements
To be successful in this class, it is the student’s responsibility to:
 Attend class regularly and be on time
 Be prepared for class with the required materials for each class session
 Participate in class through active listening, discussion, asking questions. Focus on
working diligently to complete the class illustration in the designated time period.
 Complete all your work
 Practice lab etiquette Clean up after yourself at the end of each class (computer stations,
table tops, floor). Do not leave water bottles, etc. in the class/lab. Push your chair back
in before you leave!
 Keep all the course handouts and completed exercises arranged in the order received in
your sketchbook.
 Preserve all your exercises projects electronically and in print (like-new condition) for
the semester.
Grading
Your instructor will conduct assessments that you can use to determine how successful you are
at achieving the course learning outcomes (mastery of course content and skills) outlined in the
syllabus. If you find you are not mastering the material and skills, you are encouraged to reflect
on how you use your time to prepare each project. Your instructor welcomes a dialogue on
what you discover and may be able to assist you in finding resources on campus that will
improve your performance.
Grading Scale
90 - 100 = A
80 - 89 = B
70 - 79 = C
60 - 69 = D
Below 60 = F
Grading Percentages
The student's final grade will consist of…
Project Units (averaged)
100%
Each unit includes (but is not limited to) evaluation of:
Attendance
Daily class preparedness
Listening actively in class
Following all directions whether written or verbal (a critical skill in graphic design!)
Progress in design & technical skills
Progress in concept and writing/proofing/editing skills
Participation in class
Completion of sketchbook & web enhanced components on time
Taking adequate notes during class and critiques
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Class/lab etiquette
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