Graphic Design and Layout, First Semester

Course Overview

This first semester of Graphic Design and Layout teaches design process and the proper and creative use of type as a means to develop effective communications for global, corporate and social applications. You will create samples for a portfolio, which may include elements or comprehensive projects in logos, stationery, posters, newspaper, magazines, billboards, and interface design.

By completing this course, you will be able to:

• Understand the purpose of design by grasping the importance of effective design and its ability to elevate the collective influence across products, communication, environments, and contemporary events.
• Understand the principles of graphic design and how these fundamental principles contribute to creating visually effective and aesthetically pleasing compositions across various mediums.
• Understand the design process and gain insight by actively engaging in it, thereby seeking solutions to the visual challenges encountered.
• Understand typography by creating various layouts that demonstrate the ability to solve communication design problems using typography.
• Understand product and logo design by considering the principles of design and how they should be prioritized to ensure effective communication, brand representation, and user engagement.
• Understand visual communication and layout by crafting a functional and persuasive design that adeptly applies the principles of design to enhance its layout.
• Understand design applications by employing the tools and functionalities within raster and vector software to develop projects essential for an effective workflow.
• Understand learned concepts to real world projects and receive constructive feedback and engage in peer reviews to foster collaboration and improvement.

In order to succeed in this course, you are expected to:

• Complete assignments and projects on time.
• Seek feedback and iteration.
• Embrace a growth mindset.
• Practice design thinking.
• Explore your creativity.
• Build a strong work ethic.

See a demo version here: https://iu.instructure.com/courses/2390821.

Prerequisite

Both Principals of Digital Design and Digital Design Graphics, or their equivalents, are strongly recommended.

Required Materials

1. Physical Resources
   Ensure you have access to the physical materials listed now so they will be ready when you need them.
1. Sketching notebook or plain white paper
2. #2 Pencils
2. Electronic Resources
   Get any permissions needed to access non-Canvas sites.
1. Canva, www.canva.com/
2. Adobe Express, https://www.adobe.com/express/
3. Photopea, https://www.photopea.com/
4. Corel DRAW, https://www.coreldraw.com/en/
5. Crossword Labs, https://crosswordlabs.com/
6. Escape Rooms, https://itsalockescapes.viewin360.co/