Visual Communications : courses : course descriptions

"VIS" is the new course prefix for all "ART" Visual Communications course prefixes as of spring 2007. When searching for your spring 2007 courses be aware of this. Most of these simply change the prefix but Typography (ART 115) changed the number as well to VIS 113, since VIS 115 already exists in the college course inventory as Introduction to Computer Graphics.

Use the list of links below to jump to a short description lower in the page; use the links in parentheses next to each course prefix and number to open a new window to search for and view the Course Outline of Record (COR) for any course in the entire Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana system. (Links open in a new window; reading the COR's PDF files requires Adobe® Reader.)

Graphic Design (ART prefixes through fall 2006, December 16th)

VIS 101 Fundamentals of Design (3 Cr.)

This course introduces students to fundamental design theory. Investigations into design theory and color dynamics will provide experiences in applying design theory, ideas and creative problem solving. Provides design experiences in applying design theories and concepts, and creative problem solving.

VIS 102 Fundamentals of Imaging (3 Cr.)

Introduces students to a full range of image input technology and manipulation including conventional photography, digital imaging, and computer scanners. Students will learn to communicate concepts and ideas through various imaging devices. Explores composition and fosters creativity. (Photshop software)

VIS 103 Interactive Media I (3 Cr.)

Explores various software programs involved in creating multi-media presentations, digital movies, digital animation, introductory scripting through a series of short projects. Explore the role of interactive in contemporary marketing and design. (Macromedia Director software)

VIS 105 Video and Sound I (3 Cr.)

An introduction to the field of video technology. Students will learn the basics of planning, shooting, editing and post-producing video and sound. Projects include exercises in technical and creative skills application, equipment usage and production techniques. (Adobe Premiere and SoundForge software)

VIS 110 Web Design I (3 Cr.)

An introductory level course, which focuses on the tools, strategies, and techniques for website design, architecture, navigation, language and production. Explores the methods for creating successful websites from concept to implementation. Examines the process of integrating text, graphics, audio, and video for effective communication of information. (Macromedia Dreamweaver software)

VIS 113 Typography (formerly ART 115; 3 Cr.)

An introductory course which addresses the issues pertinent to the proper and creative use of type and the enhancement of communication. Covers the history of type, typographic terminology, design, attention to aesthetics, common sense, and how we read. Projects emphasize an appreciation of and the practical use of type. (Quark Xpress)

VIS 114 Graphic Design I (formerly ART 114; 3 Cr.)

Provides introductory instruction in design for communication primarily for print media. Teaches the steps in design development with meaningful message and concept. Produces samples for student portfolios, which may include elements or comprehensive projects in logo, stationery, newspaper, magazine, billboard, and interface design, etc. (Adobe InDesign and other software)

VIS 115 Computer Graphics (3 Cr.)

This is a fundamental course, which introduces students to the computer’s use, in visual communication. The beginning focus of the course is on basic computer terminology and use, mastering fundamental skills, and developing efficient working styles. These skills are then developed by creating work with imaging, drawing, interactive, and page layout software. (Various software packages)

VIS 116 Electronic Illustration (formerly ART 116; 3 Cr.)

Provides intermediate instruction in illustration techniques using computer software designed for creating illustrations, technical, drawing, logos, packaging, maps, charts, and graphs. Emphasis is on preparing effective, creative illustrations for various media applications in an efficient, productive manner. Produces samples for student portfolios. (Adobe Illustrator)

VIS 201 Electronic Imaging (3 Cr.)

Examines the area of raster image editing and current electronic darkroom software packages. Experience with the digital imaging environment includes calibrating scanning processes, digital camera input, manipulating images in black and white and color, working with retouching for advertising, illustrating text, and working with various output devices. Digital color spaces as they relate to various output devices will be covered. Calibration for 4-color separations and pre-press procedures will be discussed as well as preparing images properly for the web. (Photshop software)

VIS 202 Special Projects I (formerly ART 202; 3 Cr.)

Provides advanced instruction in specific areas of student interest or in areas where there is a need to strengthen skills. Requires performance and completed work to be portfolio quality and reflect applicability to the main areas of the program. Suggested projects may include annual reports, catalogs, newsletters, menus, direct mail and/or other multi- piece or multi-page communications. Also may include actual community or non-profit projects. All of the work is done in an internship setting in the student's area of concentration.

VIS 205 Business Practices for Visual Artists (3 Cr.)

Examines legal and business issues affecting the professional visual artist. Examines copyright and work for hire, marketing and self-promotion, estimating and pricing, insurance and liability and the computer's role in managing a business. (Capstone course)

VIS 207 Portfolio Preparation (3 Cr.)

Provides advanced facilitation focusing on the students’ final preparation for the workforce. Requires an evaluation and portfolio development plan to be approved by the instructor. Finalizes project work demonstrating acquired knowledge and skills, along with resume and cover letter, for presentation to prospective employers. Also provides students with the opportunity to use one credit for field of study.

VIS 210 Web Design II (3 Cr.)

Further focuses on the tools, strategies, and techniques for website design, architecture, navigation, language and production. Explores more in depth the methods for creating successful websites from concept to implementation. Examines the process of integrating text, graphics, audio, and video for effective communication of information. (Macromedia Dreamweaver, Flash, Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator software)

VIS 211 Interactive Media II (3 Cr.)

Further explores various software programs involved in creating; multi-media presentations, digital movies, digital animation and scripting. (Macromedia Director software, primarily)

VIS 213 Advanced Digital Imaging (3 cr.)

In this course, the creation of the electronic image from digital imaging and scanning devices is further investigated. Advanced Adobe Photoshop illustration techniques are taught. Other software such as Adobe Dimensions and Fractal Painter are introduced. Students will work with both raster and vector software to create final output. An emphasis in final output is given to portfolio projects that are in the print, web, and film media.

VIS 217 Graphic Design II (formerly ART 217; 3 Cr.)

Provides intermediate instruction in design for communication primarily for print media. Further explores design theory by applying concepts to achieve meaningful marketing and advertising results. Produces samples for student portfolios, which may include elements or comprehensive projects appropriate to trade/industrial advertising, brochures, flyers, pamphlets, posters, direct mail and/or consumer magazine advertising/branding, etc.

VIS 218 Digital Production (formerly ART 218; 3 Cr.)

Addresses the issues of electronic prepress (preparing electronic files for digital production). Topics covered include the tasks of prepress, paper knowledge, the entire printing production process (complete with requirements of the process) and electronic file management. A strong emphasis is placed on prepress terminology and jargon.

VIS 219 Graphic Design III (formerly ART 219; 3 Cr.)

Provides advanced instruction and experience with design projects/branding identity, which communicate a common theme or campaign through several different media – magazine, billboard, radio, television, direct mail, brochures, point of purchase, sales promotions and/or package design, etc. Produces samples for student portfolios.

**Note: Course numbers do not determine the order of progression; see the program advisor for details.

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