VISC 101 - Design Fundamentals

PREREQUISITES: Demonstrated competency through appropriate assessment or earning a grade of “C” or better in ENGL 093 - Introduction to College Writing and ENGL 083 - Reading Strategies for College or ENGL 095 - Integrated Reading and Writing, or ENGL 075 - Co-Requisite Integrated Reading & Writing.
COREQUISITES: ENGL 093 - Introduction to College Writing and ENGL 083 - Reading Strategies for College or ENGL 095 - Integrated Reading and Writing, or ENGL 075 - Co-Requisite Integrated Reading & Writing.
PROGRAM: Visual Communications
CREDIT HOURS MIN: 3
LECTURE HOURS MIN: 2
LAB HOURS MIN: 2
DATE OF LAST REVISION: Fall 2020

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, critical peer evaluation, and presentation skills.

MAJOR COURSE LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Upon successful completion of this course the student will be expected to:

Define and apply design process theory.
Create compositions, artwork, illustrations, layouts, designs, etc. that demonstrate the effective use of the elements and principles of design.
Demonstrate creative and visual problem-solving skills through exercises and/or projects utilizing vector/raster-based graphics programs and/or other traditional processes.
Generate ideas, notes and thumbnails manually or digitally.
Create oral or written justification using appropriate design vocabulary.
Engage in critical peer evaluation.

COURSE CONTENT: Topical areas of study include -

Elements of design: line, shape, space, pattern/texture, motion, value & color
Principles of design: balance, unity, emphasis/focal point, rhythm, & scale/proportion
Color Theory
Composition
Concept development
Problem solving
Historical application to design
The importance of craft and execution
The creative process
Critiques