Course Title: Apply knowledge and requirements of paper and printing processes

Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term1 2017

Course Code: MIET7601C

Course Title: Apply knowledge and requirements of paper and printing processes

School: 320T Architecture & Design

Campus: Brunswick Campus

Program: C5359 - Diploma of Graphic Design

Course Contact: Alistair Briggs

Course Contact Phone: +61 9925 9446

Course Contact Email: alistair.briggs@rmit.edu.au


Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff

Meredith Chesney

meredith.chesney@rmit.edu.au

 

Nominal Hours: 80

Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.

Pre-requisites and Co-requisites

None required

Course Description

In this course, you will develop then apply the knowledge and skills required to work with a wide range of materials and processes within the printing and graphic arts industry. Focusing on industry terminology & communication; substrates; digital & manual production workflows; job creation and printing & finishing processes. Through varied learning activities, you will learn how to make informed choices for achieving production ready design outcomes.


National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria

National Element Code & Title:

ICPKNW316 Apply knowledge and requirements of paper and printing processes

Element:

1. Apply knowledge of printing industry

Performance Criteria:

  • Printing industry terminology and vocabulary are used correctly
  • New technology and new work processes are monitored and implemented whenrequired
  • Trends within printing industry are monitored, on an ongoing basis, to inform personal work practices

Element:

2 Apply knowledge of government Acts and regulations

Performance Criteria:

  • Basic principles and obligations involved in copyright, work health and safety (WHS), environmental protection, access and equity, and industrial awards are applied

Element:

3 Apply knowledge of pre-press processes

Performance Criteria:

  • Basic principles behind pre-press functions such as image production (typesetting, scanning, graphic arts camera), image combining (manual and electronic), image output (film, plates, direct to press) and digital workflow are used in production process where applicable
  • Appropriate use of different types of images (line, half-tone) are investigated
  • Different output settings (screen rulings, angles, shapes) and how they affect final product are understood
  • Different types of output required for different printing processes are applied
  • Different output devices (film setters, plate setters, analogue proofs, digital proofs) are determined

Element:

4 Apply knowledge of printing processes

Performance Criteria:

  • Basic principles of printing processes (lithography, relief, flexography, gravure, pad printing, screen printing, digital and electronic printing) are used to inform production processes
  • Types of jobs and products for which each process is appropriate are used to inform production decisions
  • Capabilities and limitations of each process are used to inform production decisions

Element:

5 Apply knowledge of converting and finishing processes

Performance Criteria:

  • Basic characteristics of converting and finishing processes (guillotining, flat-bed and rotary cutting, collating, folding, adhesive, mechanical and thermal fastening) are used to inform production processes
  • Types of jobs and products for which each process is appropriate are used to inform production processes

Element:

6 Apply detailed knowledge of paper and printing processes

Performance Criteria:

  • Relationship of different paper sizes is identified and used to inform production processes
  • Different weights, callipers, bulk, density and opacity of paper and how they affect pre-press, printing and finishing operations and end uses are identified and used to inform production processes
  • Paper grain and how it affects pre-press, printing and finishing operations are determined and used to inform production processes
  • Moisture content, porosity and ink absorbency and how they affect pre-press, printing and finishing operations are identified and used to inform production processes
  • Gloss, smoothness and surface strength and how they affect pre-press, printing and finishing operations are identified and used to inform production processes
  • Permanence, durability, and acidity and alkalinity of paper and how they affect prepress, printing and finishing operations and end uses are investigated and used to inform production processes
  • Bursting strength, folding endurance, tensile strength and tearing resistance and how they affect printing and finishing operations and end uses are investigated and used to inform production processes

Element:

7 Apply detailed knowledge of paper grades and colours

Performance Criteria:

  • Paper types and grades and end uses for each type and grade are determined and used to inform production processes
  • Differences between wood pulp, rag and recycled papers and appropriate end uses are identified and used to inform production processes
  • Colour matching processes are identified and used to inform production processes
  • Effect of different paper colours on printing operations is investigated and used to inform production processes

Element:

8 Apply detailed knowledge of paper handling and storage procedures

Performance Criteria:

  • Ideal storage conditions for different types and grades of paper are investigated and used to inform production procedures
  • Advantages and disadvantages of different packing and delivery systems are identified and used to inform production procedures

Element:

9. Apply basic knowledge of costs of production

Performance Criteria:

  • Main cost elements (fixed, capital, variable) in production are identified and applied in workplace
  • Information required to accurately cost jobs and means of collecting it (manual and computerised) are identified and applied in workplace
  • Ways of minimising use of materials without affecting quality of output are investigated and applied in workplace
  • Ways of maximising efficiency of capital and human resources are investigated and applied in workplace


Learning Outcomes



Details of Learning Activities

Learning activities will take place in a studio and computer laboratory using industry standard tools and resources. You will complete exercises and industry style projects. You will also be required to undertake independent study.

 

 

In class activities may include:

  • in class demonstrations and presentations by teacher
  • class exercises
  • workshops including use of industry based equipment and materials
  • knowledge and practical tests
  • simulated workplace activities
  • design activities or projects
  • independent project based work
  • teacher directed group activities/projects
  • online tutorials and activities
  • student presentations
  • group discussions
  • Blog/Wiki or other online discussion and participation
  • review and revision
  • group projects
  • peer teaching & learning
  • workshopping of student projects including peer/teacher feedback
  • visits to industry, seminars, events and exhibitions
  • guest lectures/presentations
  • analysis/critique of relevant reading material
  • research

 

Out of class activities may include:

  • independent project based work
  • completion of outstanding work
  • online tutorials and activities
  • independent research
  • studio practice
  • review and revision
  • analysis/critique of relevant reading material
  • research


Teaching Schedule

 

Session Details

Due
Dates

1

Program Introduction

 

2

PRINT KNOWLEDGE 101

 

3

GETTING IT RIGHT FOR PRINT – Best Practices & Image Basics

InDesign Basics

  • Tools & Workspace & Basic Functions
  • How to set up a document & place graphics
  • Working with swatches
  • Best practices the do’s and dont’s
  • Font Management Basics

Knowledge Topic: Pixel Based Images & Preparing Digital images for Print

• Resolution and Size • Colour Mode • File Formats • Compression • Automation

 

4

WORKING WITH IMAGES

Introduction to Curves & Image Integrity

Knowledge Topic: Scanning 

 

5

Project 1: Notepad (1)

Creation – Layout

Knowledge Topic: Colour Systems

 

6

Project 1: Notepad (2)

Refining, Checking, Proofing, Feedback, Review and Modify

• How to check a document; package a document: make a PDF; proof a job  

 Project 1

7

Notepad Production – Introduction to Printing

Notepad Printing

Knowledge Topic: Printing Processes

Digital, Litho, Letterpress, Gravure, Flexo, Screen 

 

8

Notepad Production – Introduction to Print Finishing & Substrates

Notepad Binding

Knowledge Topic: Paper

Knowledge Test 1 

Knowledge Test 1 

9

Notepad Production – Trimming

Notepad Trimming

Project 2: Visual Dictionary (1)

Allocate terminology & Teams - Definitions & Ideation

Knowledge Topic: Print Finishing 

 

10

Project 2: Visual Dictionary (2)

Reverse Theme

Knowledge Topic: Pattern Making 

 

11

Project 2: Visual Dictionary (3)

Review/refine definitions & graphics

 

12

Project 2:  Visual Dictionary (4)

Finalise Layout & Finished Art

Knowledge Topic: File Checking 

 

13

Project 2:  Visual Dictionary  (5) - Submission of Digital

Submission of proofs and digital files of 1up layouts

Project 2

14

Visual Dictionary – Imposition & Printing (TEAM ACTIVITY)

Stepped & Imposed; Proofing & Sign Off

Knowledge Topic: Imposition

 

15

 PACPRINT

 

16

Visual Dictionary – Finishing

Cut & Collate

Knowledge Test 2

Knowledge Test 2 

 


Learning Resources

Prescribed Texts


References

Title: A Guide to Graphic Print Production – 3rd edition / [Kaj Johansson, Peter Lundberg, Robert Ryberg]. Author: Johansson, K. (Kaj) Other Author(s): Lundberg, Peter. and Ryberg, Robert. Publisher: Hoboken, N.J. : Wiley, 2011.

9780470907924

Title: Graphic Design : Australian style manual Author: Andrew Townley Barnum ... [et al.]. Other Author(s):Barnum, Andrew Townley. Publisher: North Ryde, N.S.W. : McGraw-Hill, 2011.

9780071011051

Title: Extra : Encyclopaedia of experimental print finishing
Author: Franziska. Morlok ;Till Beckmann; Markus Zehentbauer; Uwe Jäger 1960-
c2009

9783034600835

Title: Production for Print
Author: Gatter, Mark
Publication date: 2010

9781780670867


Other Resources

You are advised to look at the Learning Hub at myRMIT site for ongoing updated information. A range of learning resources and references are provided throughout the year.

You will require a personal storage device and tools as outlined in tool kit list.

RMIT will provide you with resources and tools for learning in this course through our online systems and access to specialised facilities and relevant software. You will also have access to the library resources.

Amongst the library’s electronic resources is the ability to access Lynda.com for online tutorials and lessons. You may be given these tutorials (and other resources) to supplement your classroom learning. The University Library has extensive resources for Design students.

The Library has produced a subject guide that includes quality online and print resources for your studies rmit.libguides.com/graphicartanddesign

The Library provides guides on academic referencing rmit.edu.au/library/referencing and subject specialist help via your Liaison Librarian rmit.edu.au/library/librarians/dsc


Overview of Assessment

Assessment is on-going throughout the course. Assessment tasks will require you demonstrate the application of knowledge and skills through practical projects and/or activities using best industry practices. The assessment tasks include:
Knowledge tests
Production projects incorporating design and printed outcomes

An assessment charter summarises your responsibilities as an RMIT student as well as those of your teachers.


Assessment Tasks

This course has 4 assessments, which must all be completed and submitted.

There are also exercises which provide the basis for ongoing feedback and can be considered essential building blocks for the more substantial assessment projects. You should engage in all exercises. The exercises help provide evidence of competency.

Feedback throughout the course may be written, verbal or a combination of both.

You are required to demonstrate all learning outcomes to a satisfactory standard to be deemed competent.

PLEASE TAKE SPECIAL NOTE: Assessments are NOT based solely on final submission of the project, if other requirements such as presentations; progress; milestones are specifically indicated on the Timeline (Teaching Schedule) and Assessment Project Instructions. Such additional items and their due dates will form part of the overall assessment.

Project 1 
Notepad
Due week 06

Project 2 
Visual Dictionary 
Due week 13

Knowledge Test 1
Due week 08

Knowledge Test 2
Due week 16

At the completion of the course, grading will be offered in addition to, and after, competency based assessment.

Grades which apply to courses delivered in accordance with competency-based assessment, but which also use graded assessment:

CHD Competent with High Distinction
CDI Competent with Distinction
CC Competent with Credit
CAG Competency Achieved - Graded
NYC Not Yet Competent
DNS Did Not Submit for Assessment


Assessment Matrix

An assessment matrix demonstrating alignment of assessment tasks with the relevant Unit of Competency is available from the course contact person (stated above).

Other Information

Attendance

The major aspect of your learning experience involves studio based exercises, demonstration and production. It is strongly advised that you attend all sessions in order to engage in the required learning activities, ensuring the maximum opportunity for success.

 

Feedback

You will receive verbal and written feedback by teacher on your work. This feedback also includes suggestions on how you can proceed to the next stage of developing your projects. 

Student Progress

Monitoring academic progress is an important enabling and proactive strategy to assist you to achieve your learning potential. Student progress policy

 

Submissions

When submitting work for assessment you are required to complete a declaration of authorship. This must be done for every summative assessment task. This statement acknowledges that you are aware of the plagiarism implications. For non-­digital submission use the printed form provided. For digital online submission please use e­Submission process. Information regarding the e­Submission process

 

Special Consideration Policy, Late Submission & Extensions

All assessment tasks are required to be completed to a satisfactory level.

If you are unable to complete any piece of assessment by the due date, you will need to apply for an extension. Pick the following link for details on applying for Special consideration

Any student seeking an extension, should aim at doing so a minimum of 2 days before the deadline. Work submitted late and without an extension at any point will incur late penalties in accordance with university policy. If you require an extension you must complete an extension form with evidence supporting your application and hand this to your instructor. Further links­ Application for extension of time

 

On Time Submission and Impact of Late Submission

On time submission is an important factor in your assessment. Employability skills are embedded in all courses and these include Planning & Organising and Self-management. For this reason, late work impacts on your overall grade for each assessment task.

The following adjustments for late submission will be made: Work submitted late will be assessed for competency only. Submissions are only permitted during the period that the competency is scheduled.

 

Academic Integrity and Plagiarism

RMIT University has a strict policy on plagiarism and academic integrity. Please refer to the website for more information on this policy go to Academic Integrity. Academic Integrity

Course Overview: Access Course Overview