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GMD-101 - Intro to Graphic Design - Mark Flanders

Course:Intro to Graphic Design
Professor:Mark Flanders
Email:mark.flanders@canyons.edu
Format:
  • OnlineLive
Course Length:
  • 16 Week

Introduction

profile photo of Mark Flanders

I am Mark Flanders and your facilitator for this OnlineLive/remote course. Welcome to a wonderful course that will introduce you to graphic/multimedia design.

In this course, students will evaluate the creative process as it applies to visual communication workflow and create media for visual communication using a variety of software.

You should be computer literate, with at least basic knowledge of Internet navigation and email procedures. The college can provide some Online and Distance Learning Student Support at Online and Distance Learning.

At this time, it is necessary to have access to a reliable computer capable of running Adobe Creative Cloud software. If in doubt, consider taking the course at a later date.

College of the Canyons will provide an Adobe Creative Cloud license to students through Fall 2020. Please  visit Adobe Creative Cloud – Students or  CoC Help Desk Support to find out how to get your license. If for any reason you would prefer to purchase your own account, you may purchase it from various places such as CollegeBuys.org, discounted student (6 months) for $39.99.

Course Description

GMD 101 introduces the concepts and practices applicable in digital media, including digital imaging, audio, video, graphic design and multimedia. Includes instruction in several software applications.

What to Expect in this Course

Many students register for distant learning or online courses believing that it will require less commitment. To the contrary, these courses are often more intense than traditional face-to-face courses because the responsibility of scheduling learning is placed in your hands. Although this is an extremely beneficial skill to develop, it also requires an organized and well thought through plans. If you’re up to the challenge, remote or online learning can be a positive and rewarding experience.

In general, this course is divided into Weekly Learning Units/Modules. Each Learning Unit/Module is approximately one week in length. For each unit you can expect to complete the following coursework:

  • Read chapters from the textbook or view online tutorials (Lynda.com and youtube.com).
  • Review PowerPoint lecture(s) (remote and online).
  • Participate in discussions and critiques (ConferZoom and online).
  • Make, create, develop, edit, revise, upload, evaluate and discuss assignment and projects using a variety of software.

Types of Assessments

Credit and a student's final grade in this course will be based upon a series of projects and critiques which will determine the major part of the grade. Additionally, there will be numerous quizzes, as well as Study Guide Quizzes and in-class participation exercises.

Having reliable access to the Internet is compulsory.

In general, this course is divided into Weekly Learning Units/Modules. Each Learning Unit/Module is approximately one week in length. For each unit you can expect to complete the following coursework:

  • Read chapters from the textbook or view online tutorials (Lynda.com and youtube.com)
  • Review PowerPoint lecture(s) (remote and online)
  • Participate in discussions and critiques (ConferZoom and online)
  • Make, create, develop, edit, revise, upload, evaluate and discuss assignment and projects using a variety of software.

Textbook Information / Link to ZTC Textbook

Guide to Graphic Design by Scott W. Santoro, ISBN-13: 978-0132300704

This book is also used for GMD144, Gr Des I and cost $42 - $100.

A resource that is HIGHLY recommended and one I may be using for instructional videos and tutorials is Lynda.com! Obtain a free subscription by joining your local LA County Library right away at https://lacountylibrary.org/, apply online for a Library Card.

Other Relevant Course Information

cover image of Guide to Graphic Design by Scott W. SantoroBecause the nature of this course, much of the evidence I have of course participation is your completion of online coursework. Failure to make consistent progress, demonstrated through participation and completion of coursework may result in a course withdrawal.

 

  • A student who does not login to Canvas within 48 hours of the start of the course may be dropped. Although the course is not accessible until the first day of class, I highly recommend familiarizing yourself with Canvas and applying for a LA Public Library card ahead of the start date so to reduce any delays in the processes.
  • A student who does not complete the first project/assignment may be dropped.
  • A student who does not complete the first quiz may be withdrawn.
  • A student who does no make consistent progress, demonstrated through completion of coursework may be withdrawn.

 

As of now, there are no face-to-face meetings for this course – most if not all will be held online. Therefore, reliable and consistent access to the Internet is mandatory. Not having access to the Internet is not an excuse to miss any deadline. If you'’re in any doubt about your consistent and reliable access to the Internet, please consider attempting the course when circumstances have improved or there is a face-to-face alternative.


Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

  • CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
  • CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

College of the Canyons cares about your emotional and physical health. Learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including free counseling and mental health services available during this time by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center website or by calling them at: 661-362-3259.

The National Suicide Lifeline number is 1-800-273- 8255 (TALK). Please call it if you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress - it could save someone's life.

You can also use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. It's free, available 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 09/15/2021 Sub#: 634