Design for the Internet

Gallery Syllabus Projects Calendar Resources

Rm: COM-106
Dept: SDSU School of Art, Design and Art History
Instructor: Jeff Prentice
Ofiice Hours: before class, after class, or by appointment

OUTSIDE TIME, REQUIREMENTS.

1. This is both a technical course and a design course. You will need to allocate the maximum amount of out time to cover the technical AND design/art aspects of beginning web design.
2. You must have internet access, computer and software.
3. Dreamweaver, Flash, Photoshop, and a browser such as Firefox. The Studio package is the best deal with your student discount. You can also download 30 day free trials.

MATERIALS. USB portable hard drives are a good buy. You can also use a usb thumb drive-mini storage device. Do not use CDs. You may use the server to store work, however, we are working in an unprotected environment, i.e. no password protection. Your work may be accidentally deleted at any time. Be prepared and always have a backup of your work at home. You need to take your .psd and .fla files with you on a usb after each class- they can be wiped off the server by the sys admin.

CONTENT/EXPECTED LEARNING OUTCOMES.

1. This class is an overview for a variety of majors, from graphic design to fine art. It embraces experimental, creative and practical application of digital media for presentation on the Internet.
2. Topics will include interface design, graphic/photo/illustration preparation for presentation on the internet, basic animation, navigation, some audio and video.
3. We will participate in workshops and lectures in areas such as Photoshop, Dreamweaver, Flash, CSS, HTML, and Javascript.
4. By the end of the course you will have experience designing an xhtml/css based portfolio site, creating basic animations in flash, and produce a final interactive internet project.
5. The assignments develop an understanding of current internet iconography and interface design, and encourage the exploration of personal directions and styles.

PREREQUISITES

1. Students must show proof of prerequisites. Reregistered students who are unable to show proof of prerequisites may be dropped by the instructor.
2. If space is available, the instructor may add crashers who are able to show proof of prerequisites. By the second class period turn in a copy of a grade report for the prerequisite class (student transcript or degree audit)
3. The prerequisite for this course is Art 240 or Art 340.

GRADING

1. A project grade will be determined by evaluating comprehension of the material, concepts and original ideas, excellence of design and timely submission.
2. An incomplete grade will only be granted for extenuating circumstances.
3. All copy must be written by the student, except for quotes or material that includes an appropriate credit. Photographs, preferably, should be taken by the student; if not, appropriate credit/reference should be made. Any illustration, symbol or pattern should be drawn by the student or obtained from a copyright free source. Recorded music is not acceptable unless prior permission is given by the instructor. If used, any professionally recorded audio material should receive credit in the work.
4. Classroom interaction is vital to the learning process. Students will be expected to participate in all class activities. Lectures, demonstrations, discussions and critiques.

ATTENDANCE.

1. Attendance to all class meetings is required
2. Grades will be based on class activity and participation
3. 6 unexcused absences can result in an F for the course.

CRITIQUES and PRESENTATIONS. Constructive criticism help artists and designers analyze their work. Attendance to all critiques and group presentations is required. Absence may result in an F for the project.

DUE DATES

1. All work is expected to be completed by the due dates
2. Unless otherwise specified, work is due at the beginning of the class period.
3. Late work will be docked one letter grade per day missed past the deadline.
4. If there is a problem in meeting a deadline I should be notified in advance.