Course Syllabus
Introduction to Computer Graphics
ARTC 1325
Semester with
Course Reference
Number (CRN)
Fall 2012
CRN: 27076
Instructor contact Sandra Thompson
information (phone (713) 688-1361 Ext. 355
number and email sandra.thompson@hccs.edu or sthomps3@houstonisd.org
address)
Office Location
and Hours
M-F (TBA)
Course
Location/Times
S. P. Waltrip Senior High School, Room 312
8:00-9:50—M-T-Thurs
Course Semester
Credit Hours (SCH)
(lecture, lab) If
applicable
Credit Hours
3.00
Lecture Hours
2.00
Laboratory Hours 4.00
Total Course
Contact Hours
96
Continuing
Education Units
(CEU): if
applicable
N/A
Course Length
(number of weeks)
16
Type of Instruction Lecture/Lab
Web Enhanced Activities (32 hours)
Course
Description:
A survey of computer design concepts, terminology, processes, and procedures.
Topics include computer graphics hardware, electronic images, electronic
publishing, vector-based graphics, and interactive multimedia.
Course
Prerequisite(s)
N
None
Academic
Discipline/CTE
Program Learning
Outcomes
1. Demonstrate ability to select and apply industry standard software.
2. Demonstrate use of software and techniques for practical application.
3. Develop a portfolio that demonstrates proficiency in employment skills
Student Learning
Outcomes (SLO): 4
to 7
1. Define computer terminology
2. Identify peripherals
3. Demonstrate use of raster (bitmap) images
4. Demonstrate use of page layout software
5. Demonstrate use of vector-based graphics
6. Demonstrate use of multimedia.
Learning
Objectives
(Numbering
system should be
linked to SLO: e.g.,
1.1, 1.2, 1.3, etc.)
1.1
2.1
2.2
3.1
3.2
4.1
4.2
5.1
5.2
6.1
6.2
Study computer terms as discussed in lectures and assignments.
Identify and demonstrate proper use of storage devices such as flash
drives and portable hard drives.
Project grades reflect proper use of file management on portable devices.
Solve raster image assignments using required software application.
Assignment grades reflect effective completion of specific project
requirements including the raster application.
Solve page layout assignments using required software application.
Assignment grades reflect effective completion of specific project
requirements including the page layout application.
Solve vector-based image assignments using required software
application.
Assignment grades reflect effective completion of specific project
requirements including the vector-based application.
Solve multimedia assignments using required processes and application.
Assignment grades reflect effective completion of specific project
requirements including the multimedia application.
SCANS and/or
Core Curriculum
Competencies: If
applicable
SCANS
 Managing Resources: Manage materials; Manage time
 Working With Information: Acquire/evaluate data; Organize/Maintain
information; Interpret/Communicate data; Process information with
computers
 Exhibiting Interpersonal Skills: Teach others; Work with different cultures
 Applying System Knowledge: Understand systems
 Using Technology: Select equipment and tools; Apply technology to specific
tasks; Maintain/troubleshoot technologies
 Demonstrating Basic Skills: Reading; Writing; Speaking; Listening
 Demonstrating Thinking Skills: Creative thinking; Decision making; Seeing
with the mind's eye
 Exhibiting Personal Qualities: Individual responsibility; Sociability; Integrity;
Self-esteem; Self-management
Instructional
Methods
Face-to-Face
Web-Enhanced (32 Hours)
Distance
Student
Assignments
Assignments, projects and web-enhanced activities have been developed to guide
your learning and concept development as an intro level Computer Graphics
designer. To better understand a topic/concept, you will be given assignments on
key information that you will need to remember for your success in your career as a
Computer Graphics designer.
Student
Assessment(s)
Your work will be evaluated according to the following criteria:
Adherence to the assignment guidelines: Do not rearrange the assignment
guidelines. Complete the right assignment. If the assignment is not clear to you, it is
your responsibility to ask for clarifications before doing it.
Appropriateness: Follow course policies, attitude—check on how you handle
projects and challenges along with working with others in class. Do not have
someone do the project or assignment for you. Submit & present projects on time.
Techniques and Concepts: Application of concepts and techniques.
Design Layout: Consider creativity, balance of elements, design techniques, use of
white space, fonts, sizes and styles, effects and color.
Quality of Execution: Content information. Strive for excellence. All work should be
an attempt at portfolio quality.
Using the above criteria, your work will be assessed on six levels:
90–100% A Exceptionally fine work; superior in presentation, visual observation,
comprehension and participation
80–89% B Above average work; superior in one or two areas
70–79% C Average work; good, unexceptional participation
60–69% D Below average work; noticeably weak with minimal participation
Below 60% F Clearly deficient in presentation, style and content with a lack of
participation
Misc W Excessive absence (more than 12.5% semester absence)
Stud
Instructor's
Requirements
Program/Discipline
Requirements: If
applicable
Students who wish to appeal a grade penalty should notify the instructional
supervisor within 30 working days of the incident. A standing committee appointed
by the College Dean of Instruction (Academic or Workforce) will convene to sustain,
reduce, or reverse the grade penalty. The committee will be composed of two
students, two faculty members, and one instructional administrator. A majority vote
will decide the grade appeal and is final.
External Hard Drive
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Complete and comprehend the objectives and technologies involved in all
graded assignments.
Demonstrate the ability to apply creative thinking and problem solving to all
class projects and assignments.
Complete all reading assignments pertaining to the subject matter of the
course.
Attend class regularly, missing no more than 12.5% of instruction and lab
time (12 hours)
Arrive at class promptly and be prepared with necessary books, storage
media, assignments, and anything else required.
Exhibit safe and courteous lab habits.
Develop and share knowledge and information with fellow students.
Participate in keeping labs clean and organized; shutting down computers
when finished; abiding by lab rules; showing respect for instructors, fellow
students and lab assistants.
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HCC Grading
Scale
A = 100- 90
4 points per semester hour
B = 89 - 80:
3 points per semester hour
C = 79 - 70:
2 points per semester hour
D = 69 - 60:
1 point per semester hour
59 and below = F
0 points per semester hour
IP (In Progress)
0 points per semester hour
W(Withdrawn)
0 points per semester hour
I (Incomplete)
0 points per semester hour
AUD (Audit)
0 points per semester hour
IP (In Progress) is given only in certain developmental courses. The student must
re-enroll to receive credit. COM (Completed) is given in non-credit and continuing
education courses. To compute grade point average (GPA), divide the total grade
points by the total number of semester hours attempted. The grades "IP," "COM"
and "I" do not affect GPA.
Daily
Tests
Projects
Total
Instructor Grading
Criteria
Instructional
Materials
Participate in class discussions and critiques.
Demonstrate the ability to communicate in a clear, coherent manner.
Turn in all assignment on time and in the manner required by the instructor.
Demonstrate the ability to use computer--based technology and software
applications as it applies to be given class.
Understand and be proficient in computer file management, including saving
and retrieving files.
When possible, demonstrate the ability to use and understand both
Macintosh and Window operating systems.
Demonstrate knowledge and the ability to use applicable peripherals and
storage devices.
Develop a portfolio that illustrates concepts, techniques, and programs used
in solving class assignment, including a written statement describing project
concepts and processes.
Demonstrate ability and creativity in using computer--based technology in
communicating, solving problems and acquiring information.
Accept responsibility for personal understanding of course requirements
and degree plan.
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Catherine Skintik: Learning Media Design with Adobe CS4
Publisher: Prentice Hall/Pearson
[ISBN-10: 0-13-507687-0/ISBN-13: 978-0-13-507687-3]
External USB
HCC Policy Statement:
Access Student
Services Policies
on their Website:
40%
20%
40%
100%
http://hccs.edu/student-rights
Distance Education and/or Continuing Education Policies
Access DE
Policies on their
Website:
http://de.hccs.edu/Distance_Ed/DE_Home/faculty_resources/PDFs/DE_Syllabus.pdf
Access CE
Policies on their
Web site:
http://hccs.edu/CE-student-guidelines
FALL 2012—TRADITIONAL 16 - WEEK SESSION
May 7
Monday
Registration Begins
August 18
Saturday
Saturday Registration (9 a.m.-1 p.m.)
August 24
Friday
Last Day for 100% Refund
August 25
Saturday
Saturday Registration (9 a.m.-1 p.m.)
August 26
Sunday
Last Day for Drop/Add/Swap/Registration Ends (online only)
August 27
Monday
Classes Begin
August 27-September 12
70% Refund
September 3
Monday
Offices Closed—Labor Day Holiday
September 10
Monday
Official Date of Record
September 13-18
25% Refund
October 15
Monday
November 2
Friday
Priority Deadline for Fall Completion of Degrees or Certificates
Last Day for Administrative/Student Withdrawals—4:30 p.m.
November 21
Wednesday
No Night Classes before Thanksgiving
November 22-25
Thurs-Sun
Offices Closed—Thanksgiving Holidays
December 9
Sunday
Instruction Ends
December 10-16
Mon-Sun
Final Examinations
December 16
Sunday
Semester Ends
December 17
Monday
Grades Due by—12:00 Noon
December 2 1
Friday
Grades Available to Students
December 19-January 1
Offices Closed—Christmas Break
December 12-18
Final Examinations
December 18
Sunday
Semester Ends
December 19
Monday
Grades Due by- 12:00 Noon
December 23
Friday
Grades Available to Students
December 20- January 2
Offices Closed- Christmas Break
Following is a tentative outline of class discussion topics and assignments for the semester.
Please note that this schedule is subject to changes at any time pending on the class progress. You will
be informed of any changes. Updated information will be posted online at
http://hccs.blackboard.com
Week 1-4
1. Introduction - Working with Computer Systems (Mac & PC) & Peripherals (including Printers);
2. File organization
3. Working with Microsoft Office Business applications Versus Adobe Design Suite for Digital
Publishing
DISCUSSION TOPICS:
 Introduction
o Student Profile Sheets - Getting to know everyone
o Course requirements & expectations (Refer to Syllabus)
 Computer platforms, systems, peripherals & software applications
o Operating systems
o Software applications – Approach how to review an application (Interface Menu &
Help Files)
File organization - Saving files (Save versus Save As), exporting files, retrieving files,
copying files and deleting files, search (find) & indexing
o Using menus versus short-cut keys
o Printers (Hardware & Digital PDFs) – Print Resolutions
o Importance of Font Management – Where is the Font Folder?
 Introduction to Microsoft Word – Why use Word?
o Terminologies & Concepts
o Program properties and preferences
o View options – Using rulers and grids
o Importing text & formatting rules, working with soft returns, hard returns, line space,
(tracking versus kerning), indents, paragraph formatting, keep with next, orphans and
widows, styles, alignment versus arrangement, properties, and tabs
o Typographic design basics with font management guidelines
o Editing text and graphics – copy/paste commands, what is a clipboard, undos/redos
o Using borders and shading as visual design organization
o Bullets & Listings
o Using Headers and Footers
o Inserting dynamic dates & times
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Importing & working with digital graphics, audio, object & media files
Microsoft resources for imaging & Learning resources
Creating hyperlinks to websites, linking documents and media files
Saving files (What are temp files?)
Printing hard and soft copies (PDF)
ASSIGNMENTS: See class handout for the Week
WEB ENHANCED ACTIVITIES: See class handout for the Week
Week 5-8
1. Digital Imaging (Working with Raster Graphics)
2. Copyright Laws and Regulations
DISCUSSION TOPICS:
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What are Raster Graphics & Available Applications (Adobe Photoshop)
Terminologies & Concepts
Program Properties, tools & organization
Working with the program menus, editing using menus & shortcut keys
View options – Using rulers and grids
File formats & extensions (Working graphics versus exported/optimized/Flattened graphics)
Importance of graphic cards and system needs for Digital imaging programs
Understanding screen resolutions and unit measurements for print versus web/multimedia
Imaging Resources (Public Domain, the e-Library, etc)
Importing images into your computer via Scanners and digital cameras
Create, Resize, & Edit Images
Design basics – Hue, Saturation & Value; Contrast, visual communication via the use of
digital graphics
Copyright Laws and Regulations (GOOGLE IMAGES – A VIOLATION REMINDER!)
ASSIGNMENTS: See class handout for the Week
WEB ENHANCED ACTIVITIES: See class handout for the Week
Week 9-10
1. Computer Illustration (Working with Vector Graphics)
2. Working with Adobe Kuler
3. Mid Term Project/Evaluation
DISCUSSION TOPICS:
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Working with Vector Applications (Adobe Illustrator) – Terms & Concepts
Adobe Kuler
Program Properties, Tools & Organization
Working with the program menus, editing using menus & shortcut keys
View options – Using Rulers and grids
File formats & Extensions (Working & Exporting Vector graphics)
Exploring the differences between Raster and Illustration graphics
Design Basics- Working with color and type
ASSIGNMENTS : See class handout for the Week
WEB ENHANCED ACTIVITIES: See class handout for the Week
Week 11-14
1. Digital Publishing - Working with Digital Print Applications
2. Working with Adobe Acrobat Professional – Creating Multimedia & Interactive Form
applications
3. Adobe Bridge
4. Computer Graphics Industry - Preparing for Jobs & Career options
DISCUSSION TOPICS:
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Digital Publishing Applications – Adobe InDesign
o Program Properties, Tools & Organization
o Terminologies & Concepts
o Exploring the differences between MS Word & InDesign
o Typographic design basics with font management guidelines
o Importing text from MS Word to InDesign
o Formatting rules, working with soft returns, hard returns, line space, tracking, kerning,
indents, paragraph formatting, styles, and tabs
o View options – Using Rulers and grids
o Working with imported graphics
o Working with the program menus, editing using menus & shortcut keys
o Design basics & organization for page layout enhancements
o Packaging and exporting final printed documents
Adobe Acrobat Professional
o Program Properties, Tools & Organization
o Terminologies & Concepts
o Explore interactive functions
o Creating PDF portfolios with viewing options
o Setting Print Quality in Acrobat PDF with Export options
o Importing and organizing pages
o Security Settings
o Read aloud functionalities
Adobe Bridge (CS5 – What is the Mini Bridge Application)
o Program Tools & Organization
o Terminologies & Concepts
o Explore interactive functions
Computer Graphics - Job & Career options
o What are your career options & passion?
o How are you going to prepare yourself to handle upcoming courses, training and long
term design career plans?
o How the Digital Communication Department at Houston Community College can help
you?
o Importance of creating a digital portfolio for your future projects (including classes).
ASSIGNMENTS: See class handout for the Week
WEB ENHANCED ACTIVITIES: See class handout for the Week
Week 15-16
1. LAB – Work on Final Project
2. Final Evaluation
DISCUSSION TOPICS:
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None – Lab Only
ASSIGNMENTS: Work on Final Project
WEB ENHANCED ACTIVITIES: See class handout for the Week