Course Title: Design and manipulate complex layouts

Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term1 2018

Course Code: GRAP6346C

Course Title: Design and manipulate complex layouts

School: 320T Architecture & Urban 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

Andrew Phillips

andrew.phillips@rmit.edu.au

Nominal Hours: 65

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 the skills and knowledge required to design complex publication layouts. You will combine creative design skills with technical software proficiency. You will produce layouts for a range of publishing, design, advertising and printing outcomes.


National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria

National Element Code & Title:

CUAGRD505 Design and manipulate complex layouts

Element:

1 Analyse design needs

Performance Criteria:

1.1 Confirm communication objectives for the publication based on the design brief and consultation with relevant people as required

1.2 Evaluate particular specifications of the design brief

1.3 Source and evaluate other information pertinent to the project

Element:

2 Develop and refine layout ideas

Performance Criteria:

2.1 Identify relevant sources and conduct research to inform layout ideas

2.2 Consider the opportunities and constraints offered by different techniques and technologies

2.3 Assess the different elements that need to be incorporated into the overall layout

2.4 Create and refine ideas and options by working with the fundamental elements and principles of design

2.5 Refine ideas through use of ongoing technical experimentation

2.6 Evaluate and select approaches based on their potential to meet the
communication need

2.7 Produce and present visual representations of design ideas and communicate with others to confirm as required

Element:

3 Create and manipulate layouts

Performance Criteria:

3.1 Set up the document using the capabilities of appropriate software

3.2 Manipulate and enhance the layout through use of an extended range of tools and features

3.3 Support communication objectives with effective integration of text and visuals

3.4 Identify and resolve technical problems based on developing expertise

3.5 Achieve desired outcomes through application of design skills and technical expertise

3.6 Enhance outcomes by allowing the creative and technical processes to work together

3.7 Establish and follow safe work practices in the work process

Element:

4 Evaluate design work

Performance Criteria:

4.1 Critique the layout from both a functional and aesthetic perspective in the context of the design objective

4.2 Seek feedback from others as required, and make appropriate adjustments

4.3 Make assessment of own work and identify key learnings to inform future work

Element:

5 Finalise technical aspects

Performance Criteria:

5.1 Edit and refine layouts to meet technical requirements

5.2 Follow correct protocols for saving, exporting and storing files

5.3 Establish appropriate file formats for output and appropriate colour management profiles


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 will include:

  • demonstrations and presentations by teacher
  • peer teaching and class presentations
  • group discussion
  • review and revision
  • peer learning
  • teacher directed group activities/projects
  • ‘workshopping’ of student projects including peer/lecturer feedback 

Out of class activities will include:

  • independent project based work
  • online tutorials and activities
  • independent research
  • studio practice
  • review and revision


Teaching Schedule

 

This course is clustered with GRAP6348C BSBDES402 Interpret and respond to a design brief

WEEK


Session Description

Assessment due

Learning Elements

CUAGRD505

Learning Elements

BSBDES402

1

Course introduction - Overview and Assessment Requirements. InDesign revision. Working with tables and rules in InDesign. Understanding their uses and limitations.


Task A: Simple Tables.

 

1,2,3,4,5

4

2

Revision continued - Working with more complex forms in InDesign using tables, tabs and rules.


Task B: Complex Tabs and Tables.

Task A DUE

1,2,3,4,5

4

3

Brief requirements - Introduction to Project 1.0. Analysis of genre codes and how are they brought to life using images and type.


Detailed study of the interrelationships between different visual design components within a complex layout. Develop subscription form.


Project 1.0: Breaking Records and Subscription Form.

Task B DUE


INTRODUCTION PROJECT 1.0


ASSESSMENT CHECKLISTS

1,2,3,4,5

1, 2

4

Concept development - Genre research must clearly identify appropriate characteristics, moods & styles. Research contemporary typography and design. Source and cite appropriate imagery.

DRAFT DUE

1,2,3,4,5

1, 2, 3, 4

5

Project development - Identify technical requirements pertaining to layout ideas. Explore a range of tools to meet the design objectives.

     

6

Project development - Focus on consistent execution across all project components. Engage in consultation to identify improvements for hard copy prototypes.

 

1,2,3,4,5

1, 2, 3, 4

7

Project development - Assess resources and technical requirements for production. Refer to checklists to complete complex finished artwork.

DRAFT DUE

1,2,3,4,5

1, 2, 3, 4

8

Resolve project - Refine design solution for Project 1.0.  

Demonstrate ability to conceive of the project in its totality.

 

1,2,3,4,5

1, 2, 3, 4, 5

 

EASTER BREAK / 1 WEEK

     

9

Final presentation - Individual presentations for assessment.

Project 1.0 DUE

1,2,3,4,5

2, 3, 4, 5

10

Brief requirements - Introduction to Project 2.0. View examples, discuss concepts and research methods. Receive assigned topics.

Form groups, develop communication methods and timelines.


Project 2.0: Type Topic Booklet.

INTRODUCTION PROJECT 2.0


ASSESSMENT CHECKLISTS

1,2,3,4,5

2, 3, 4, 5

11

Collaborative activities - Present multiple concept directions to the group. Outline client/target audience and their expectations based on your research/concept. Source and incorporate feedback from peers.

 

1,2,3,4,5

2, 3, 4, 5

12

Concept development - Refine layout ideas and develop designs. Feedback and discussion. Develop coordinated approach to cover.

 

1,2,3,4,5

2, 3, 4, 5

13

Project development - Initial PROOFING of Type Topics Project in hard copy. Use iterative processes to ensure that expectations for consistency and accuracy are met across the set of booklets.

DRAFT DUE

1,2,3,4,5

2, 3, 4, 5

14

Project development - Respond to feedback to improve work. Conduct technical checks before final production.

 

1,2,3,4,5

2, 3, 4, 5

15

Resolve project - Resolve and produce work ensuring all parameters of design brief are met.

 

1,2,3,4,5

2, 3, 4, 5

16

Final presentation - Individual presentations for assessment.

Project 2.0 DUE

1,2,3,4,5

2, 3, 4, 5

 


Learning Resources

Prescribed Texts


References

French, Nigel, InDesign Type: Professional Typography with Adobe InDesign (3rd Edition), 2014, Adobe Press

978-0321966957

Coles, Stephen, The Geometry of Type: The Anatomy of 100 Essential Typefaces, Thames & Hudson Ltd; 1st edition, 2013

978-0500241424

Kane, John, A Type Primer (2nd Edition), Pearson Prentice Hall, 2011

978-0205066445

Lupton, Ellen, Thinking with Type: A Critical Guide for Designers, Writers, Editors, & Students 2 Rev Exp Edition, 2014, Princeton Architectural Press

978-1568989693

Highsmith, C, Inside Paragraphs, 2012, The Font Bureau Inc

978-0965472203

Middendorp, Jan, Shaping Text: Type, Typography and the Reader, 2012, BIS Publishers

978-9063692230

Williams, Jim, Type Matters!, Merrell Publishers, 2012

978-1858945675

Garfield, Simon, Just My Type: A Book About Fonts, 1st (first) Edition (2010)

B00CF6G1DM

Spiekermann, Erik, Stop Stealing Sheep & Find Out How Type Works, Third Edition (3rd Edition), Adobe Press, 2013

978-0321934284


Other Resources

Prescribed Texts

There are no compulsory prescribed texts in this course. This course has recommended books listed under ‘References’

 

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 http://rmit.libguides.com/graphicartanddesign

The Library provides guides on academic referencing http://www.rmit.edu.au/library/referencing and subject specialist help via your Liaison Librarian http://www.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 exercises. The assessment tasks are:
Exercises
Major projects incorporating design and printed outcomes
Reports

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


Assessment Tasks

This course has 2 Projects. You are required to demonstrate all learning outcomes to a satisfactory standard.

Task 1: Simple Tables. Due Week 2.

Task 2: Complex Tables & Tabs. Due Week 3 start of class.

Project 1 Part A: Students will design and produce 2 x album covers and 1 x album liner notes. Due Week 9

Project 1 Part B: Students will design and produce a subscription form. Due Week 9

Project 2: Students will design a multipage booklet. This will be a group project. 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 are:
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 e Submission 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

Reasonable adjustment is available and may be applied through the Special Consideration process. 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