Design Fundamentals

This is a foundational design course, covering the theories, processes, vocabulary, and techniques common to visual design disciplines. Students will develop and apply their knowledge through analysis, critique and individual and collaborative exercises and projects.

Students successfully completing the course will be able to:

Apply visual design elements and principles to organize compositions and create meaning
Analyze the quality and integrity of design work to evaluate the relationship between the audience, form, content and context
Employ research, sketching and ideation techniques
Revise and improve a design solution using an iterative process, working individually and as a part of a group
Employ design vocabulary to explain one's design process and outcomes orally, visually and in written form

Textbook

Introduction to Design,(2009). 2nd Edition, Pipes, Alan. Pearson/Prentice Hall. Upper Saddle River, NJ.

The text is available at the CCSF Bookstore, at amazon.com and other major booksellers. You can purchase the 1st or 2nd edition of the textbook, or rent it, and several copies of the book are on reserve at Ocean Campus and Mission Center libraries.

Materials:

Required Art Supply List

A few pencils (2B, H, and 2H)
Eraser, kneaded (gray gummy eraser)
Ruled metal edge, at least 12-inches long
Technical pen-black (Itoya, Staedtler, Sakura ) sets of 6 can be less expensive than buying separately.
A thick black marker (sharpie is fine)
Glue stick or rubber cement
Drafting tape
9”x 12” smooth Bristol board (white), 8–10 sheets or a pad
An Exact-o knife and extra blades
Scissors
Tracing paper

Additional Recommended Supplies:

A sketchbook for brainstorming –any type/size that works for you.
A small cutting mat (optional but helpful)

As Needed Supplies:
You will need to collect other “project specific” supplies throughout the semester. You can save money by using inexpensive, found or salvaged materials for many of the projects. You may also need to pay for computer printouts and mounting boards for some assignments. Please plan to spend around $75–$100 for all class supplies.

Technology Needed:

Access to a computer/smart phone with internet for accessing Canvas and all course materials
Writing assignments and presentations must be created digitally and submitted via canvas
A digital camera, tablet or cell phone with a decent resolution will be needed for some assignments
Access to Google or Dropbox accounts for uploading assignments and collaborative projects
You will also need access to a b/w printer for printing out some assignment sheets, etc.

Methodology | Grading

A variety of methods will be used to explore content throughout the semester: lecture, discussion, reading worksheets, exercises and individual and group creative projects.

Your work will be evaluated using professional-quality standards. Grading will be based on a combination of assignments and active participation in class activities and discussions. Each project will give details on learning outcomes, methodology and evaluations specifics.