DSN 220

DSN 220: Creative Technologies

Credit Hours: (3) Six hours lab

A hands-on introduction to design software through computer lab and maker space environments for projects suitable to design-field presentation. 

Detailed Description of Content of Course

Official Course Description: A hands-on introduction to design software through computer lab and maker space environments for projects suitable to design-field presentation. Students will develop skills and understanding of the design software properties and appropriate use for specific applications. The course will incorporate applicable composition strategies for multiple applications. 

Content/ Major Topics: 

• Design Software:  
  • Platform Properties 
  • Language  
  • Techniques   
  • Use and fit across multiple applications  
• Composition strategies:
  • Layout, Arrangement, and Compositional Design 
  • Export and Printing  
  • Presentation Methods 
  • Maker Space Integration  

 

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

Instructional strategies to include: 

• demonstration instruction 
• maker experiences 
• active learning and high impact practices 

Course is taught in computer lab and maker space settings. Demonstration, application exercises, presentation, and critique will be used to present and integrate the information to the class. In-class activities, assignments, and projects will be used to apply information and assess outcomes; these reflect presentations suitable for design fields. 

Goals and Objectives of the Course

As a result of this class, the student will…

1.    Understand the specifics relative to different presentation and design software products.
2.    Develop skills relative to the different software products.
3.    Develop assignment and projects that address composition layout for specific applications.
4.    Demonstrate the application of the elements and principles of design, through the use of media and techniques used in the production of presentations for the design field.
5.    Students apply a variety of communication techniques and technologies appropriate to a range of purposes and audiences. (6a)
6.    Students are able to produce competent presentation drawings across a range of appropriate media. (6d)
7.    Students effectively apply the elements, principles, and theories of design to two-dimensional design solutions. (9a)
8.    Students apply color effectively in all aspects of visual communication (presentations, models, etc.) (10d)

 

Student Learning Outcomes 

Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:  

1. gain exposure to evolving design technologies* 
2. understand technology terminologies and language necessary to communicate effectively  
3. demonstrate design solutions using design software knowledge and skills 
4. express project solutions using a variety of visual communication techniques and technologies appropriate to a range of purposes and audiences*  
5. identify the relevant aspects of a design problem (e.g. goals, objectives, performance criteria)  
6. demonstrate the iterative design process (problem, concept development, implementation, evaluation)
7. apply the elements and principles of design to two-dimensional design solutions* 
8. express ideas and rationale developed in the design process through visual methods 
9. critically evaluate work through peer review and self-evaluation 
   * Learning outcomes are specific to CIDA accreditation standards

Assessment Measures  

In-class exercises, assignments, and projects to include: 

Minimum of one Project with process work 

Projects and/ or assignments demonstrating the following Composition strategies:

• Layout, Arrangement, and Compositional Design 
• Export and Printing  
• Presentation Methods 
• Maker Space Integration

Other Course Information

Course requires access to Design Software, Computer Lab, Printing, and Maker Space Equipment

Facilities, Equipment and Supplies:

• Computer lab with on-campus computers/ technology/ software/ printing. 
• Student class-time and independent access to on-campus computer lab and makerspaces 
• Copy/ printing resources 

Review and Approval
01/2011

March 27, 2025