UCC/UGC/ECCC
Proposal for New Course
Fall 2016
Please attach proposed Syllabus in approved university format.
1. Course subject and number:
VC 305
2. Units:
See upper and lower division undergraduate course definitions.
3. College:
Social and Behavioral Sciences
4. Academic Unit:
3
School of
Communication
5. Student Learning Outcomes of the new course. (Resources & Examples for Developing Course
Learning Outcomes)
- Students will expand on fundamental knowledge of graphic design in a project with a timebased medium.
- Students will explore linear messages and how to enhance, reinforce, or change verbal
meaning with a project developed in a time-based communication tool.
- Students will demonstrate their ability to understand time-based media by executing and
refining storyboards.
- Students will demonstrate, with a project, an intermediate understanding of the basic
elements of motion design: time, sequence, framing, editing, color, typography, sound and
transition.
- By completing exercises and tutorials students will gain software skills needed to become
a practicing professional.
6. Justification for new course, including how the course contributes to degree program outcomes,
or other university requirements / student learning outcomes. (Resources, Examples & Tools for
Developing Effective Program Student Learning Outcomes)
This course will cover the elements of motion design, the role sound plays and integration of
graphics and animation. Motion graphics can be used to creatively go beyond the rules of
representation, thus augmenting the various ways that media artists can delve into their
imaginations and express unique visual and aural works. Students are strongly encouraged to
explore the creative software available to them, as well as with experimental and traditional
media.
7. Course Title: KINETIC AND SEQUENTIAL DESIGN
(max 100 characters including spaces)
8. Catalog course description (max. 60 words, excluding requisites):
Effective Fall 2015
Studio course. Exploration of motion design as an extension to 2d design language.
Development of skills related to typographic and visual vocabulary within time-based projects.
9. Will this course be part of any plan (major, minor or certificate) or sub plan (emphasis)?
Yes
If yes, list and include the appropriate plan proposal.
Visual Communications; B.F.A.
No
10. Does this course duplicate content of existing courses?
Yes
No
If yes, list the courses with duplicate material. If the duplication is greater than 20%, explain why
NAU should establish this course, and include applicable support/correspondence.
11. Grading option:
Letter grade
Pass/Fail
Both
12. Proposed Co-convene with:
14a. UGC approval date*:
See co-convening policy.
*Must be approved by UGC before UCC submission, and both course syllabi must be presented.
13. Proposed Cross-list with:
See cross listing policy.
14. May course be repeated for additional units?
14a. If yes, maximum units allowed?
14b. If yes, may course be repeated for additional units in the same term?
Yes
No
Yes
No
VC 161, VC 261, VC 262 with grades of C or
15. Proposed Prerequisites:
better
If prerequisites, include the rationale for the prerequisites.
These prerequisites reinforce 2d design principles that are necessary for adding motion
design principles in their area of specialization. Course builds on the skills learned in VC 161,
VC 261 and VC 262.
16. Proposed Co requisites:
NONE
If co requisites, include the rationale for the co requisites.
17. Does this course include combined lecture and lab components?
Yes
If yes, include the units specific to each component in the course description above.
No
18. Does this course include an experiential learning component?
No
19. Class Instruction Mode:
In-person
If In-person or Blended, where will the course be offered?
Effective Fall 2015
Online
FLGMTN
Yes
Blended
Other
20. Which terms will the course be offered?
Fall
Winter
Other
Spring
Summer
(Fall/Even Yrs, Spring/Odd Yrs, Intermittent, etc.)
21. Do you anticipate this course will be scheduled outside the regular term?
Yes
No
If yes, please refer to: http://nau.edu/Registrar/Faculty-Resources/Schedule-of-Classes-Maintenance/
22. Will there be a course fee?
If yes, please refer to: http://nau.edu/Registrar/Faculty-Resources/Course-Fees/
Yes
No
23. Is this course being proposed for Liberal Studies designation?
Yes
No
24. Is this course being proposed for Diversity designation?
Yes
No
Answer 23-24 for UCC/ECCC only:
FLAGSTAFF MOUNTAIN CAMPUS
Scott Galland
Reviewed by Curriculum Process Associate
11/16/2016
Date
Approvals:
Department Chair/Unit Head (if appropriate)
Date
Chair of college curriculum committee
Date
Dean of college
Date
For Committee use only:
UCC/UGC Approval
Date
EXTENDED CAMPUSES
Reviewed by Curriculum Process Associate
Approvals:
Effective Fall 2015
Date
Academic Unit Head
Date
Division Curriculum Committee (Yuma, Yavapai, or Personalized Learning)
Date
Division Administrator in Extended Campuses (Yuma, Yavapai, or Personalized
Learning)
Date
Faculty Chair of Extended Campuses Curriculum Committee (Yuma, Yavapai, or
Personalized Learning)
Date
UGC Approval (Graduate-Level Courses Only)
Date
Chief Academic Officer; Extended Campuses (or Designee)
Date
College: SBS
Department/ Academic Unit: School of Communication, Visual Communication
Course prefix, Section number and Title: VC 305 Kinetic and Sequential Design
Term/ Year: Fall / Junior Year
Total Units of Course Credit: 3 credits
Course Pre-requisite(s): VC 161, VC 261, VC 262 with grades greater than or equal to C or better.
Instructor’s Name: Professor Chris Johnson
Instructor’s Contact Information: 928-523-8114; E-mail: c.s.johnson@nau.edu
Instructor’s Availability:
Professor: Chris Johnson
Class time: Tuesdays & Thursdays 12:45-2:45
Office hours: M & W 9:20-9:50; T & Th 3:20-3:50
Office: School of Communication Room 327
e-mail: c.s.johnson@nau.edu
Twitter: csj2arts
Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/csj2
Academic Catalog Description: Studio Course. Exploration of motion design as an extension to 2d
design language. Development of skills related to typographic and visual vocabulary within timebased projects.
Course Purpose: Identifies the overall goals or aims of the course. Includes such things as
clarification of how the course “fits into” or contributes to the university’s educational programs, such
Effective Fall 2015
as a degree program (or programs), University-wide requirements, etc., and clarification of what is
studied in the course, such as an overview of content, skills, breadth/depth, etc.
This course will cover the elements of motion design, the role sound plays and integration of graphics
and animation. Motion graphics can be used to creatively go beyond the rules of representation, thus
augmenting the various ways that media artists can delve into their imaginations and express unique
visual and aural works. Students are strongly encouraged to explore the creative software available to
them, as well as with experimental and traditional media.
Intended Course Student Learning Outcomes:
- Students will expand on fundamental knowledge of graphic design in a project with a time- based
medium.
- Students will explore linear messages and how to enhance, reinforce, or change verbal meaning
with a project developed in a time-based communication tool.
- Students will demonstrate their ability to understand time-based media by executing and refining
storyboards.
- Students will demonstrate, with a project, an intermediate understanding of the basic elements of
motion design: time, sequence, framing, editing, color, typography, sound and transition.
- By completing exercises and tutorials students will gain software skills needed to become a
practicing professional.
Assignments/ Assessments of Intended Course Student Learning Outcomes: Articulates key
assignments/ assessments that will be used to provide clear indications of student achievement of
course learning outcomes, and provides a summary of the purpose and description of the
assignments/ assessments.
• Advanced projects: focusing on more complex and in-depth motion solutions to design utilizing the
grid and the abilities of Cinema 4d and Adobe AfterEffects to create longer Motion Graphics.
- Type Specimen Poster: Select a typeface. Research the category, year, designer, foundry,
classification and a brief history. Create a 11x17 poster according to specifications, print
and display for critique. To gain an understanding of Cinema 4d, rendering, applying design
principles, and becoming familiar with working across multiple
- Visual Equations: Select two words and mash them up. Examine the different words and
possibilities. Through motion define the combination of the words to create a specific
meaning. Depict the details through kinetic and expressive attributes of the typography. To
gain an understanding of working with storyboards, applying animation design principles,
and becoming familiar with motion design software.
- Persuasive and Motivational Design: Create a message that persuades the viewer to
healthy living. The message can be selling someone the idea, a campaign message, or
even a public service announcement . Must be approved by the instructor. Students learn
to communicate through graphics and sound in a time based format. To test and explore
the motivational, emotional & persuasive techniques in motion design through subject and
graphics. To demonstrate knowledge of screen composition, information and sound.
Grading System
Effective Fall 2015
Projects are due on the day of the final critique, and will not be accepted late or partially
complete.
Process and Documentation of Work
Instructor will be looking for obvious dedication, process and continuous work on a
project. This means showing work regularly at class meetings.
Creativity and Innovation
Work demonstrates thought, meaningful making and design, not just the most obvious
design outcome and literal interpretation.
Presentation and Critique
Formal presentations of work during class meetings and critiques, clearly describing the
project, design decisions and answering questions from the instructor and the class.
Design, Craftsmanship and Skill
Design work is carefully put together with consideration to technique, craftsmanship,
final output, and audience. Designers should always consider the grid structure,
resolution, and the quality of images (photos, graphics and art work.)
Participation, Effort, Group Work and Collaboration
Class participation is key. This includes: demonstration of effort, commitment and
determination on class work, participation in group exercises, tutorials, class critiques
and collaborative projects.
Grade Breakdown
I will keep all grades and attendance in the iPad app Gradebook. At any point during the
semester you may request to view your grade.
Tutorials are worth 20 points (total of 5)
Midterm and Finals are worth 50 points
Project 1 is worth 50 points
Project 2 is worth 50 points
Projects 3 and 4 are worth 100 points each
Project 5 is worth 100 points
= A total of 600 points possible for the entire class
Grading Scale
A = 90-100%
B = 80-89%
C = 70-79%
D = 60-69%
F = Below 60%
Effective Fall 2015
Structure/ Approach
All Projects will follow the same format:
Phase 1: Introduction, Selection, Analyze and Sketch (in storyboard format)
Phase 2: Design Storyboards, collect sample images, compose, and caption
Phase 3: Develop, Collect & Capture images and videos (no stock or clip art)
Phase 4: Make & Create motion sequence, test out ideas, explore options
Phase 5: Edit & Revise project according to the feedback
Phase 6: Refine & Present for class critique.
Readings and Materials
 You must be able to log onto your Lynda.com account at www.nau.edu/lynda
 You must have access to Cinema 4d in and out of class.
 You must have access to After Effects, Photoshop and Illustrator.
 You will also need to become a member of Vimeo (which is free). In order to turn in
assignment you must upload your files to Vimeo.com
 Drawing materials for Storyboards. Storyboards are graphic organizers in the form
of illustrations or images displayed in sequence for the purpose of pre-visualizing a motion
picture, animation, motion graphic or interactive media sequence.
Class Outline or Tentative Schedule
Week 1
Class 1 / 8.31: Project 1 Assigned
Class 2 / 9.02: Prototype due / Type C4d Tutorial
Week 2
Class 3 / 9.07: Labor Day - No Class
Class 4 / 9.09: Refine Poster / Print Poster
Week 3
Class 5 / 9.14: Project 1 DUE for FORMAL Presentation
Class 6 / 9.16: Project 2 Assigned / Occulus Rift Demo
Week 4
Class 7 / 9.21: RC car modeling tutorial
Class 8 / 9.23: Project 2 storyboard due
Week 5
Class 9 / 9.28: Project 2 in progress critique
Class 10 / 9.30: Inflate / Deflate Tutorial
Week 6
Class 11 / 10.05: Guest Speaker – Curtis Ho
Class 12 / 10.07: Cartoon laws of Physics
Week 7
Class 13 / 10.12: Refine
Class 14 / 10.14: Project 2 Due / Project 3 Assigned
Effective Fall 2015
Week 8
Class 15 / 10.19: Tutorial
Class 16 / 10.21: Tutorial
Week 9
Class 17 / 10.26: Midterm Evaluations - Test
Class 18 / 10.28: Tutorial
Week 10
Class 19 / 11.02: Tutorial
Class 20 / 11.04: Tutorial
Week 11
Class 21 / 11.09: Project 3 Due
Class 22 / 11.11 Project 4 Intro / Concept / Storyboard
Week 12
Class 23 / 11.16: Project 4 Modeling
Class 24 / 11.18:
Week 13
Class 25 / 11.23 Project 4 Lighting / Materials
Class 26 / 11.25: No Class
Week 14
Class 27 / 11.30: Refine
Class 28 / 12.02:
Week 15
Class 29 / 12.07: Final Testing
Class 30 / 12.09: Undergraduate Symposium
Week 16
Final Class / Monday, 12.14: 10:00am – 12:00pm / Test
Class Policies
Attendance
Students must arrive promptly at the start of class, with cell phones off, and full attention on the class
discussion. You are not to use Facebook, Instant Messenger, Email or Text Messenger in class. If
you are given time to work in class, you are not to work on other class work. If you are, you will be
asked to leave and you will be counted as absent for that day.
Three absences will deduct one letter grade for the semester. In this class there are no excused or
unexcused absence. When you miss class you miss lectures and very important information. Your
attendance is mandatory. If you think you will be missing more than three meetings, you should
consider taking this class another semester.
What is a tardy? My definition: being more than five minutes late. Three tardies equals one absence.
NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY
POLICY STATEMENTS FOR COURSE SYLLABI
Effective Fall 2015
SAFE ENVIRONMENT POLICY
NAU’s Safe Working and Learning Environment Policy prohibits sexual harassment and assault, and
discrimination and harassment on the basis of sex, race, color, age, national origin, religion, sexual
orientation, gender, gender identity, disability, or veteran status by anyone at this university. Retaliation
of any kind as a result of making a complaint under the policy or participating in an investigation is also
prohibited. The Director of the Equity and Access Office (EAO) serves as the university’s compliance
officer for affirmative action, civil rights, and Title IX, and is the ADA/504 Coordinator. EAO also assists
with religious accommodations. You may obtain a copy of this policy from the college dean’s office or
from NAU’s Equity and Access Office website nau.edu/diversity/. If you have questions or concerns
about this policy, it is important that you contact the departmental chair, dean’s office, the Office of
Student Life (928-523-5181), or NAU’s Equity and Access Office (928) 523-3312 (voice), (928) 5239977 (fax), (928) 523-1006 (TTD) or equityandaccess@nau.edu.
STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
If you have a documented disability, you can arrange for accommodations by contacting Disability
Resources (DR) at 523-8773 (voice) or 523-6906 (TTY), dr@nau.edu (e-mail) or 928-523-8747 (fax).
Students needing academic accommodations are required to register with DR and provide required
disability related documentation. Although you may request an accommodation at any time, in order for
DR to best meet your individual needs, you are urged to register and submit necessary documentation
(www.nau.edu/dr) 8 weeks prior to the time you wish to receive accommodations. DR is strongly
committed to the needs of student with disabilities and the promotion of Universal Design. Concerns or
questions related to the accessibility of programs and facilities at NAU may be brought to the attention
of DR or the Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity (523-3312).
ACADEMIC CONTACT HOUR POLICY
Based on the Arizona Board of Regents Academic Contact Hour Policy (ABOR Handbook, 2-224), for
every unit of credit, a student should expect, on average, to do a minimum of three hours of work per
week, including but not limited to class time, preparation, homework, studying.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
Integrity is expected of every member of the NAU community in all academic undertakings. Integrity
entails a firm adherence to a set of values, and the values most essential to an academic community
are grounded in honesty with respect to all intellectual efforts of oneself and others. Academic
integrity is expected not only in formal coursework situations, but in all University relationships and
interactions connected to the educational process, including the use of University resources. An NAU
student’s submission of work is an implicit declaration that the work is the student’s own. All outside
assistance should be acknowledged, and the student’s academic contribution truthfully reported at all
times. In addition, NAU students have a right to expect academic integrity from each of their peers.
Individual students and faculty members are responsible for identifying potential violations of the
university’s academic integrity policy. Instances of potential violations are adjudicated using the
process found in the university Academic Integrity Policy.
RESEARCH INTEGRITY
The Responsible Conduct of Research policy is intended to ensure that NAU personnel including NAU
students engaged in research are adequately trained in the basic principles of ethics in research.
Additionally, this policy assists NAU in meeting the RCR training and compliance requirements of the
National Science Foundation (NSF)-The America COMPETES Act (Creating Opportunities to
Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education and Science); 42 U.S.C 18620-1, Section
Effective Fall 2015
7009, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) policy on the instruction of the RCR (NOT-OD-10-019;
“Update on the Requirement for Instruction in the Responsible Conduct of Research”). For more
information on the policy and the training activities required for personnel and students conducting
research, at NAU, visit: http://nau.edu/Research/Compliance/Research-Integrity/
SENSITIVE COURSE MATERIALS
University education aims to expand student understanding and awareness. Thus, it necessarily
involves engagement with a wide range of information, ideas, and creative representations. In the
course of college studies, students can expect to encounter—and critically appraise—materials that
may differ from and perhaps challenge familiar understandings, ideas, and beliefs. Students are
encouraged to discuss these matters with faculty.
CLASSROOM DISRUPTION POLICY
Membership in the academic community places a special obligation on all participants to preserve an
atmosphere conducive to a safe and positive learning environment. Part of that obligation implies the
responsibility of each member of the NAU community to maintain an environment in which the
behavior of any individual is not disruptive. Instructors have the authority and the responsibility to
manage their classes in accordance with University regulations. Instructors have the right and
obligation to confront disruptive behavior thereby promoting and enforcing standards of behavior
necessary for maintaining an atmosphere conducive to teaching and learning. Instructors are
responsible for establishing, communicating, and enforcing reasonable expectations and rules of
classroom behavior. These expectations are to be communicated to students in the syllabus and in
class discussions and activities at the outset of the course. Each student is responsible for behaving
in a manner that supports a positive learning environment and that does not interrupt nor disrupt the
delivery of education by instructors or receipt of education by students, within or outside a class. The
complete classoom disruption policy is in Appendices of NAU’s Student Handbook.
August 25, 2015
Effective Fall 2015