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VSC 161 Vector Graphics

This course introduces the computer as an illustrative medium. Topics include Macintosh operating system basics and a comprehensive overview of Adobe Illustrator in vector imagery manipulation, planning and communication, image editing, digital illustration, publishing, and delivery of Illustrator (vector-based) images. Upon completion of this course, students are prepared to take the Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) Illustrator Exam.

Credits

3

Prerequisite

Prerequisite: VSC 160 and SSC 100 or concurrent

See Course Syllabus

Course Number and Title:

VSC 161 Vector Graphics

Campus Location

  • Dover

Prerequisites

Prerequisite: VSC 160 and SSC 100 or concurrent

Course Credits and Hours

3 credit(s)

2 lecture hours/week

3 lab hours/week

Course Description

This course introduces the computer as an illustrative medium. Topics include Macintosh operating system basics and a comprehensive overview of Adobe Illustrator in vector imagery manipulation, planning and communication, image editing, digital illustration, publishing, and delivery of Illustrator (vector-based) images. Upon completion of this course, students are prepared to take the Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) Illustrator Exam.

Additional Materials

Black Matte Board (several sheets)
Rubber Cement
Utility knife or X-ACTO knife and extra blades
8x10 hardbound sketchbook
Flash drive or cloud based storage

Required Text(s)

Obtain current textbook information by viewing the campus bookstore - https://www.dtcc.edu/bookstores online or visit a campus bookstore. Check your course schedule for the course number and section.

Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)

  1. Access, use, and store data using the Macintosh platform. (CCC 2, 4, 5, 6; PGC ADD 2; MMD 2)
  2. Apply the basic elements and principles of design. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 5, 6; PGC ADD 3, 4, 5; MMD 3, 4, 5)
  3. Apply project planning, project management, and teamwork as they pertain to the design of visual communication projects incorporating vector graphics. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; PGC ADD 1, 3, 4, 5, 6; MMD 1, 3, 4, 5, 6)
  4. Use Adobe Illustrator software to edit and create vector illustrations and graphics. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 5, 6; PGC ADD 1, 2, 3, 4, 5; MMD 1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
  5. Draw vector illustrations, and add text using Adobe Illustrator. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 5, 6; PGC ADD 1, 2, 3, 4, 5; MMD 1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
  6. Create images and graphics for web, print, and video. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; PGC ADD 1, 2, 3, 4, 5; MMD 1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
  7. Create, present, and defend designs, layouts, and technical merits of work, and use constructive criticism from formal critiques to make improvements. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; PGC ADD 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; MMD 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)

See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.

Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)

Upon completion of this course, the student will:

  1. Access, use, and store data using the Macintosh platform.
    1. Use various operational basics of the Macintosh system.
    2. Create and store files in the proper areas.
  2. Apply the basic elements and principles of design.
    1. Explain image resolution, image size, and image file format for web, video, and print.
    2. Identify design principles, elements, and image composition.
    3. Discuss the anatomy of typography.
  3. Apply project planning, project management, and teamwork as they pertain to the design of visual communication projects incorporating vector graphics.
    1. Interpret the purpose, audience, and audience needs for preparing images that meet design brief requirements.
    2. Communicate design plans with other members of the design team and clients.
    3. Discuss standard copyright rules for images and image use.
    4. Describe project management tasks and responsibilities.
    5. Create a review and redesign cycle based on feedback.
  4. Use Adobe Illustrator software to edit and create vector illustrations and graphics.
    1. Identify and explain elements of the Illustrator user interface and its functions.
    2. Use symbols and representative graphics.
    3. Discuss key terminology of graphics.
    4. Use Illustrator interface non-printing design tools and guides.
    5. Use Illustrator features and options required to manage color, pattern, and gradient swatches.
    6. Use the pen, pencil, and brush tools to create and edit vector graphics.
    7. Use brushes, symbols, graphic styles, and patterns.
    8. Use layers and masks.
    9. Import, export, and save files in various formats.
  5. Draw vector illustrations, and add text using Adobe Illustrator.
    1. Adjust art board size.
    2. Use the drawing and shape tool.
    3. Use type tools to manipulate the design and placement of set typography.
    4. Use scanned or photographic images as a template layer.
    5. Create realistic graphics using gradient tool and the gradient mesh tool.
    6. Modify, rotate, skew, and transform objects.
  6. Create images and graphics for web, print, and video.
    1. Prepare images for web, print, and video.
  7. Create, present, and defend designs, layouts, and technical merits of work, and use constructive criticism from formal critiques to make improvements.
    1. Mount, matte, or using another method display work for presentation.
    2. Present design in a formal critique.
    3. Incorporate constructive criticism to make improvements.

Evaluation Criteria/Policies

The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:

90-100 = A
80-89 = B
70-79 = C
0-69 = F
Students should refer to the Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.

Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)

VSCAASADD

  1. Integrate the principles and elements of design into cohesive problem solving techniques for advertising design assignments.
  2. Create or evaluate and select illustrative or photographic imagery for use in effectively evoking a response within an ad-design solution's target market.
  3. Critique design solutions and develop strategies for strengthening their conceptual and technical effectiveness.
  4. Structure a problem solving strategy for delivery of the client's message to his market, making efficient use of current design, production, and delivery technologies.
  5. Synthesize components of ad-design solutions into cohesive presentations that are technically and conceptually effective.
  6. Create or evaluate and select, illustrative, or photographic imagery for use in effectively evoking a response within an ad-design solution's target market.
  7. Integrate professional, ethical, and legal standards into business practice.

VSCAASMMD

  1. Integrate the principles and elements of design and interactive graphics into cohesive problem solving techniques for interactive/web assignments.
  2. Critique design solutions and develop strategies for strengthening their conceptual and technical effectiveness.
  3. Structure a problem solving strategy for delivery of the client's message to his market, making efficient use of current design, production, and delivery technologies.
  4. Synthesize components of media delivery solutions into cohesive presentations that are technically and conceptually effective.
  5. Create or evaluate and select illustrative, photographic, layout, and/or responsive imagery for use in effectively evoking digital/web-based solutions for multiple devices.
  6. Integrate professional, ethical, and legal standards into business practice.

Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)

  1. Apply clear and effective communication skills.
  2. Use critical thinking to solve problems.
  3. Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
  4. Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
  5. Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
  6. Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.

Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability

We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.

Minimum Technology Requirements

Minimum technology requirements for online, hybrid, video conferencing and web conferencing courses.

Academic Integrity

https://dtcc.smartcatalogiq.com/Current/Catalog/Academics/Academic-Integrity

Attendance

https://dtcc.smartcatalogiq.com/Current/Catalog/Search?q=attendance

Cell phone/Electronic Device

https://dtcc.smartcatalogiq.com/Current/Catalog/Student-Policy/Cell-Phone-and-Electronic-Device-Policy

Tuition Adjustment Policy

https://dtcc.smartcatalogiq.com/Current/Catalog/Financial/Tuition-Fee-Adjustment-Policy-Course-or-Semester-Withdrawal