Course Title: Advanced Desktop Publishing

Part A: Course Overview

Course Title: Advanced Desktop Publishing

Credit Points: 12


Course Code

Campus

Career

School

Learning Mode

Teaching Period(s)

COMM2469

City Campus

Undergraduate

345T Media and Communication

Face-to-Face

 Sem 2 2014,
Sem 2 2015

Course Coordinator: Penny Johnson

Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 9925 4383

Course Coordinator Email:penny.johnson@rmit.edu.au


Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities

You are required to have completed Creating Content – Text and Image (COMM2450)


Course Description

This course builds on the skills and knowledge introduced in Creating Content – Text and Image, and is essential for anyone interested in the design and layout of books, magazines and other publications. By using industry-standard software, you gain the skills required to create a range of print-ready documents including newsletters, brochures and annual reports. You explore the language of design, analyse current trends in different markets and identify the techniques required to design for communication versus decoration. Through a series of practical projects you discover how to transform your design ideas into effective, visually appealing documents.


Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development

Course Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course you will be able to:

  • critique a range of publications in terms of design approaches 
  • analyse the requirements of the publishing task and select the appropriate software
  • apply and manipulate text and graphics to create attractive, appealing and effective documents
  • create a range of advanced publishing design solutions using industry standard software.

Program Learning Outcomes
In this course you will develop the following program learning outcomes:

  • acquire and apply the skills to write works of fiction and non-fiction, edit professionally, create digital content, design print and web-based products, develop and manage writing and editing projects
  • apply and creatively adapt theoretical and technical knowledge and skills to reflect the needs and expectations of varied readerships and markets
  • demonstrate critical thinking and innovation when identifying and responding to problems in diverse contexts within writing, editing and publishing.



Overview of Learning Activities

The learning activities included in this course are:

  • lectures, which provide the framework for developing your desktop publishing skills
  • completion of practical class exercises intended to improve your skills with a range of software
  • completion of desktop publishing projects created to develop design knowledge and skills 
  • independent research and study.


Overview of Learning Resources

Course information and learning materials are available through myRMIT and you are provided with selected written and visual material in class. This course employs a number of software programs. You can also access a range of resources through the library, e-reserve, various archives and the web.


Overview of Assessment

Assessment for this course is ongoing throughout the semester. Assessment will include a range of activities such as in-class exercises, assignments, and individual projects.