GDP2_COMD 1200 OL56 S2022_Syllabus 2 Childers_syllabus 3.22
New York City College of Technology,
The City University of New York
Department of Communication Design
Professor: Patricia Childers, pchilders@citytech.cuny.edu
Graphic Design Principles ll
COMD 1200, D052, SPRING 2023;
Prerequisites: COMD 1100, COMD 1127
1 class hour, 5 lab hours, 6 credits
Meeting Monday & Thursday 8:30-12:00
Naam; Room 1118
Office hours Monday noon, room 1118, or by appointment
Website OpenLab: https://openlab.citytech.cuny.edu/comd1200
Google Drive: gd2-S023
Course Description
COMD 1200, the culminating freshman design course, investigates visual communication and its relevance to graphic design. Through the process of image-making, we will explore concept using type and image. Students develop projects from thumbnails to final presentations while exploring multiple disciplines such as graphic design, web design, and motion.
Teaching/Learning Method
Group discussion (critique,) lecture, research, demonstration, assignments, blog, reading, writing, presentation, quizzes.
General Education Outcome. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>. How Learning is Assessed
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Information Literacy: Demonstrate the ability to find information through proper resources. |
Research, writing and presenting a design report. |
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Oral Communication and Listening: Demonstrate the ability to discern pertinent information from irrelevant information. |
Critiques demonstrate the understanding of concepts. |
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Thinking Critically: Demonstrate the ability to evaluate strengths and relevance of arguments on a particular issue. |
Through student’s ability to advance concepts. |
Instructional Objectives
B Evaluate methods and criteria
B Compose form conceptually, as opposed to composing through collage
B Demonstrate competency through four projects with multiple parts
B Analyze, productively and diplomatically, during a presentation;
give and receive constructive criticism during critiques
Outcome
B Understand the design tools (conventional and digital)
and the production required to create graphics, typography and images
B Explore the various aspects of dynamic composition and page layout
B Understand project pacing and deadlines.
B Cleanly and professionally present your work.
Focus
Graphic designers create visual form to communicate specific messages to specific audiences. This class focuses on developing your ability to manipulate design elements to communicate compelling, meaningful ideas.
In design, there are not always ‘correct’ solutions—
but some are more appropriate and compelling than others. Appropriate solutions are hardly ever arrived at quickly, but through a series of evolutionary steps. In this class, you will investigate which “steps” work best for you and develop a methodology based on reliable habits that will support you throughout your career.
This syllabus is subject to change at any time. You will be notified of any changes.
Classwork
Students agree to commit to arriving in class at the scheduled times. During class, students will show and discuss their work, watch video lessons and slideshow presentations, participate in virtual group projects and discussions, and work on projects. The benefit of this format is that you will interact with me and your classmates. You aren’t on their own.
Technology
We will use Adobe software, Miro, OpenLab, GoogleDrive.
Process
Each week, you can access a schedule of what is needed to participate through our class website. The semester revolves around a set of five scaffolded projects. This means that each project will build on the material that you have produced in the previous project. Therefore, it is imperative that you complete all projects within the deadline.
All projects are explained in detail during class. Detailed, step-by-step instructions are posted on Openlab. The class is tightly scheduled with the expectation that you will read each assignment and follow instructions. Please re-read instructions after project completion to assure compliance. Failure to follow instructions will slow your to progress to the next assignment.
Classes are formatted to assist you with feedback at every step. We critique work-in-progress as well as finished projects at 8:30 pm. You must be in attendance to present your work to receive full credit. This schedule assures immediate feedback on every project and every homework assignment. In addition, virtual office hours are held twice a week, and are flexible to accommodate your schedule.
Ongoing Assignments Sketches: Each week, fill your process book with homework images, ideas, notes, etc. Your pages will be checked once a month. Your process book will be due at the end of the semester.
Blog: Instructions for comments are included in each homework assignment.
Homework
B Homework is due at start of class
We will review homework at 8:30 to get direction for the day’s work. If you homework is not available at 8:30 will will not have an opportunity for review. Therefore, no homework is accepted after 8:30.
Again: All assignments are due at the beginning of class and recorded in the homework roster.
Grading of homework is based on following instructions, and completion. Projects must adhere to documented instructions in a professional manner to earn credit.
Class review of homework gives direction for your next assignment. Therefore, it is critical to complete all homework to proceed.
However, homework is a time to experiment. We critique it to discover your thoughts and processes. There is no “wrong” homework. Therefore, as long as your homework is complete and basic criteria followed, you will do well! Playfulness is encouraged!
This may seem like a tricky balance. Please ask me to clarify!!! This is your responsibility, and grade! You deserve to understand how to excel in this class
Requirements
Critiques
Class critiques are conversations that are a part of the process of making. By learning and using professional design terminology will help you to develop professional confidence.
Like most professional design projects, each assignment has goals and constraints. By nature, visual solutions elicit aesthetic, socio-political, and functional responses specific to each individual. Through peer responses we can explore varied interpretations.
Class Participation
Class participation means that you are fully present in class, not gaming, surfing, chatting, etc. Transgressions will resultinareductionofyourparticipationgrade.
This class will be conducted as a professional experience—a job, or an interview. Assume that your professor and peers will be in a position to recommend you in the near future. In class, you are not only building your knowledge and your portfolio, you are establishing your professional reputation.
Professionalism is demonstrated by:
B Class preparedness: completes projects on time, has all materials needed for class,
checks web site for instructions
B Participation: volunteer comments and answers, ask questions, and help classmates
B Remaining attentive: arrive on time and remain for the full time period
B Preparation: Follow project instructions and takes notes
B Punctuality: deadlines are critical to professional situations and this class.
This class reflects that in both assignments and deadlines.
Attendance Policy
While CUNY does not have an attendance policy, the Communication Design Department stresses the importance of attendance while permitting each instructor to set their own attendance policy. Since COMD 1200 is a course designed for process learning, attendance is critical for success. Missing critiques is reflected in your grade.
Both absences and arrival of more than 10 minutes after the start of class are marked. If excessive, the instructor will alert the student that they are in danger of not meeting the course objectives and participation expectations.
Common Sense Rules
B Homework is due at start of class
B Come to class ready to work, with completed homework and all supplies.
B No games/browsing/email/etc. during class.
B Failure to comply, including late attendance, extended breaks, leaving early, and
incomplete homework, will affect your grade.
Communication
Please consistently check your City Tech email (or the email you provide to me and OpenLab) for reminders or changes. Check mail at least 24 hrs before class.
It is your responsibility to keep lines of communication open.
Please remember to check that your mailbox is not full.
Academic Integrity
Anyone who works with information, ideas, texts, images, music, inventions, and
Standards other intellectual property owe their audience and sources accuracy and honesty
in using, crediting, and citing sources. As a community of intellectual and professional workers, the College recognizes its responsibility for providing instruction in information literacy and academic integrity, offering models of good practice, and responding vigilantly and appropriately to infractions of academic integrity.
Accordingly, academic dishonesty is prohibited in The City University of New York and at New York City College of Technology and is punishable by penalties, including failing grades, suspension, and expulsion.
Assessment/Grading Goals & Methods of Assessment
B Goal #1: Preparation: Understand the preparation process:
Follow directions, assemble materials, conduct research.
Method of Assessment: Evaluate each step.
B Goal #2: Process: Understand professional methods and procedures.
Method of Assessment: Evaluate process.
Goal #3: Concept: Compose with professional imagery.
B Method of Assessment: Evaluate clarity of message.
Goal #4: Craft: Understand the importance of presentation.
Method of Assessment: Evaluate based on the stated goal.
B Goal #5: Punctuality: Understand the importance of arrival time and deadlines.
Students who know they will be absent must e-mail homework before the start of class.
Method of Assessment: Class roster
Grading Students are evaluated on participation, presentation, and verbal communication. Attendance affects participation and the final grade.
Projects are graded daily and on completion. Homework is due at beginning of class, late homework will results in a grade reduction. Homework and in-class skill-building exercises are graded on a credit/no-credit basis, and can not be completed later.
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1 Image project |
15% |
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2 Type/Image project |
15% |
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3 Poster Project |
15% |
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4 Motion project |
15% |
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5 Final: process book |
15% |
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6 Homework & in class workshops |
15% |
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7 Blog & class participation TOTAL |
10% 100% |
Assessment
A [4.0; 95 –100%] Exceptional quality work and participation, exceeds course goals
A- [3.7; 90 – <95%] Very high quality work, much participation
B+ [3.3; 87 – <90%] High quality work, much participation
B [3.0; 83 – <87%] Very good work, satisfies goals, some participation
B- [2.7; 80 – <83%] Good work, some participation
C+ [2.3; 77 – <80%] Average work, participation shows a general understanding of project
C [2.0; 73 – <77%] Average work, little participation
C- [1.7; 70 – <73%] Passing work but below requirements
D [1.0; 60 – <70%] Below requirement, incomplete
F [0 – <60%] Failure, no credit
Participation
Participation Assessment B Participation, presentation, and verbal communication is graded.
Attendance affects the participation grade.
B Active participation is shown through working effectively in groups
as well as through cooperation and respect for others.
Accessed by:
Level 1 Participation
B All of the markers of level 2 participation, plus:
B Volunteers participation
B Expands on ideas or concerns of others
B Re-visits issues or ideas that need more attention
B Helps the group stay on track
B Summarizes group decisions and action assignments
Level 2 Participation
B Well prepared in advance
B Takes a large part in setting group goals and agendas
B Actively participates in discussion and asks questions
B Listens actively and shows understanding
B Acknowledges and builds on others’ ideas
B Volunteers willingly
Level 3 Participation
B Moderately prepared in advance
B Some participation, occasionally introduces information
B If absent or late, informs professor and sends homework
Level 4 Participation
B Little advance preparation, observes passively, says little
B Uses phone and talks with others
B Gives the impression of wanting to be somewhere else
B Attendance record is haphazard and inconsistent
Your Contribution The diversity that each student brings to this class is a resource and a strength. It is my intent to present materials and activities that are respectful of diversity: gender, sexuality, disability, age, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, race, and culture.
Your suggestions are encouraged and appreciated. Please let me know ways to improve the effectiveness of the course for you personally and for other students. Source: University of Iowa College of Education
Class Blog Posts
Students must contribute to the blog. The process gives you professional experience using design vocabulary and it develops your critical “eye” through observation, and assessment.
File Naming
All students are expected to label all files.
COMD file name convention:
course number_ season year__your last name_ first name_project name.
For example: comd1200_F2022_smith_amy_letterform
Assignments
Five Projects The class progresses through four scaffolded assignments and culminates in a final synthesis project, a book that includes work from the entire semester.
Project 1: Image
Goal: Explore 2-dimensional form, figure-ground, focal point, and proportion.
Objective: Manipulate one form to create two dynamic shapes
Process: Working within a 6 x 6-inch square, create compositions using a single letterform. Manipulate the forms and counter-form of the letter to create figure-ground compositions that strike a balance between positive and negative shape. Isolate just enough of each letter to hint at its identity. Letterforms can be from any culture.
Project 2: Image/Text
Goal: Explore scale, and cultural awareness.
Objective: Combine two forms to create an image with context.
Process: Working within a 6 x 6-inch square, combine a graphic image that represents a specific object with a letter that represents it. Create one cohesive recognizable mark.
Project 3: Design Influence Poster
Goal: Explore your influences through research. Organize and explore the grid, proportion, and create hierarchy, to provide context.
Objective: Combine multiple forms to provide context. Research and design a typographic poster that visually represents design that has influenced you.
Process: Where did your design understand come from? Art from home, games, or music? Research, write, and report on something that has influenced your design philosophy. Use a grid to integrate proportion, use hierarchy and color to reinforce context. Apply principles in a step-by-step process to explore a design methodology.
Project 4: Motion
Goal: Create the illusion of movement in a two-dimensional space.
Objective: Combine multiple forms to create form progression. Activate your poster to reinforce your message.
Process: Choose an element from your poster and manipulate it in a way that will reinforce your message. Create a gif.
Project 5: Process book
Goal: Synthesis of multiple elements over multiple pages.
Objective: Showing your process and conclusions. Combine everything that you have created this semester from sketches to final projects to document your semester.
Process: Create a grid and organize content. Display the semester process from sketch to finished project for each assignment.
semester schedule
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1 |
Welcome: semester review |
Letterform abstraction, |
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Critique: letterform |
Revise letterform abstraction |
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2 |
Critique: letterform |
Design critique practice using letterforms |
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Critique: revised letterform |
Work on letterform in class |
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3 |
Critique: revised letterforms |
Align letterforms in class. Finalize and create a negative version |
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Critique: final letterform critique |
Revise letterform for positive and negative versions |
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4 |
Critique: glyph day: positive & negative letters due |
Visually show your process: create a “tight” sketch, label #1. Create a new refined version, label #2. Create a new refined version, label #3 |
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Critique: review sketches |
Digitize image/letter |
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5 |
Critique: review sketches |
Begin research on design hero, |
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Critique: last image/letter revision |
Finalize positive and negative image |
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6 |
Critique: icon day: icon due |
Revise final image if necessary |
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Presentation day: who has influence you? |
Compose typography, spell check, align, |
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7 |
Critique: typography |
Revise 1 typography, with 2 different |
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Critique: typography hierarchy |
Revise 2 texts |
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8 |
Critique: typography |
Apply additional element to 2 typography compositions |
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Critique: text with additional element |
Revise typography |
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9 |
Critique: typography |
Apply color, 2 versions |
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Critique: typography |
Revise typography, create final pdf |
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10 |
Critique: typography |
Create 4 poster directions |
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Critique: posters |
Revise poster |
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11 |
Critique: posters |
Revise poster |
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Introduce: motion |
10 thumbnail motion sketches |
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12 |
Critique: gallery day: final posters |
gather material for resume |
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discuss motion sketches; |
Finish resume |
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13 |
Introduction: book design |
Apply elements to book grid |
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Critique: book grid & resume, pacing in 2 dimensions |
Continue book through 3rd chapter Option to revise motion |
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14 |
Critique: movie day: final motion |
Complete all chapters |
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Critique: review books |
Complete all chapters |
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15 |
Review all portfolio books |
Finalize and produce book |
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Publishing day: book presentation |
relax . . .sleep. . . relax. . . eat. . . relax. . . play. . . |
