Module 1 Learning Outcomes: After completion of this module, you will be able to: 1. Define the essential characteristics of vector and raster graphics in verbal discussion and in visual design. 2. Identify the principles, elements, and strategies of design in a critical and iterative process. 3. Demonstrate competence and speed in using the pen tool in Adobe Illustrator (AI) to create bezier curves and paths. 4. Create complex objects with competence, efficiency, and critical analysis in using the pathfinder panel and shape builder tool to create complex objects.
Introduction: To build a home, you’d need to know whether to choose wood or brick based on the location, they way
the home would be used, the weather, and other contextual information. You’d also need to know how to use the tools you have in order to start building properly. The same is true for graphic design. In this module, we focus on basic concepts related to digital images and on practicing to improve skills in using some tools in Adobe Illustrator to create them, specifically, the pen tool (bezier), the pathfinder panel of tools, and the shape builder tool. We will also identify the two basic data structures for creating, manipulating, and storing digital visual information: vector and raster (bitmap) graphics. We will consider which contexts and uses best suit each format. Adobe Illustrator is an example of a software program used to create, edit, and manage vector images; Photoshop is its counterpart for raster images. The characteristics of digital image types are not only determined by the tools used to create them, but also provide the criteria for their appropriate application. With these two formats of image and these two tools, we will have what we need to begin building graphic design.
Just as an understanding of the characteristics of analog images, (like film photography) and its tools, and Contextual Introduction: technologies, (e.g. printable, dependent on light, chemical reaction) define the strategies for its creation and use in visual communication, so too, an understanding of the fundamental characteristics and structures of digital image types enable us to create and use them more effectively.
Visual strategies encompass ideas about organizing, planning, and selecting methods and tools, based on the principles that are supported by theory and research. Along with the analysis of the content and clear definition of message, they are the basis for good design process.
Topic [Content] 1:
Learn to Use the Pen Tool The most basic level of graphic design is the the vector path, which can be created with the pen tool in Adobe Illustrator. Drawing with the pen tool, including with the Bezier curve, creates a path that can be enlarged and printed at any size with no loss of quality. This type of image is best suited to simple images with a limited color palette that will be used in many sizes. Practice using the pen tool using the Beginners Basic Pen Tool tutorial. file:///Users/eileenmedinger/Desktop/GRC250%20syllabus%20links/Pen%20Tool%20Exercises%20 %20%2811%29.ai. After downloading the tool, review each video and practice the techniques. Finally, create examples that demonstrate your mastery Submit the exercise and examples under Assignments. Source: [if needed]
Transition Statement:
Now that you’ve practiced creating curves with the pen tool, and you can now understand how to make and edit vector images, watch this video about when to use vector images instead of raster images. Comparing and Defining Vector vs Raster in Graphic Design https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QruoTMi3yo0.
Topic [Content] 2:
Create an Instructional Aid to Help Others Understand Digital Image Types Vector images and raster images have different qualities that make them each better suited to different contexts. A vector image can work well for a logo, which is simple and will need to scale up and down. A rasterized image can offer more detail in colors and works much more effectively for images like photographs. Now that you’ve had a chance to create and edit vector images, you will create a visual instructional aid to help a non-expert understand the basic characteristics and structures of digital graphics. The visual presentation (eg. infographic, illustration, animation) will illustrate/explain/demonstrate the defining qualities of both vector and raster data types. Use your best insights to determine and execute the critical design principles that organize a composition, direct the learner’s navigation, to support understanding of the essential characteristics of the concepts. Which image types will you use to complete your presentation? How will you create them? After creating and submitting the project, review all other submissions and provide reflective and substantial feedback, addressing both the design and the effectiveness. Source: 1. Amy Arntson (2011). Graphic Design Basics (6th ed.). Cengage Learning. p. 194. 2. Arie Kaufman (1993). Rendering, Visualization and Rasterization Hardware. Springer Science & Business Media