SYLLABUS

ART 132 Two-Dimensional Design for Graphic Design

Room: 248 Bardo Arts Center
Class Meeting Days and Times:
Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:05 - 11:50am

Instructor: M A LaFratta
Professor + Coordinator of Graphic Design
Room 241, Bardo Arts Center
School of Art + Design
Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC 28723

[ e ] lafratta@wcu.edu
[ t ] 828.227.2463

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OFFICE HOURS:
Mondays 10:00am - 1:00pm AND by Appointment.
Rm 241, Bardo Arts Center

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SYLLABUS

(Contents subject to change with notice and or as needed to best support student learning.)

ART 132, TWO-DIMENSIONAL DESIGN: Foundation course developing creative 2-D visual thinking and problem solving with connections to theory, criticism, and practice. Exit portfolio required. Studio course. 3 credit hours.

Estimated Workload: This is a studio class, unlike typical academic classes, studio classes meet for 2 hours and 45 minutes twice a week, for a total of 5 hours and 30 minutes a week.
It is a 3 credit course and requires approximately 9 hours, on average, of work required outside of class a week. Time is allowed in class to work on projects, therefore it is important to use studio class time effectively.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

ART 132, Two-Dimensional Design for Graphic Design is a foundation course developed for the BFA degree with Emphasis in Graphic Design. It introduces students to concepts, develops technical skills, and provides insight into design process and components of visual communication that will be built upon in graphic design specific studio classes.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

• Demonstrate visual literacy skills.
• Visually articulate design process.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the elements and principles of art and design for effective communication.
• Demonstrate technical skills.
• Articulate conceptual development.
• Demonstrate ability to constructively critique works by others.
• Manage time for successful completion of all assignments.
• Develop good studio practice

LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the end of this course you will:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of art and design and application in various contexts;
• Develop basic skills working with Adobe Photoshop, Ilustrator, and InDesign;
• Demonstrate your ability to shape visual messages and experiences for a viewer(s);
• Articulate concepts and ideas related to your work and provide constructive and insightful feedback when discussing the work of other students in the class.

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COURSE MATERIALS

REQUIRED TEXTBOOKS:

• Design Basics 2D and 3D, by Pentak, Roth, and Lauer (available as a rental textbook through the WCU bookstore)
• Graphic Design The New Basics by Ellen Lupton and Jennifer Cole Phillips, © 2015. (provided by School of Art + Design)

ABOUT the Graphic Design Program.
The BFA with Emphasis in Graphic Design requires an Entrance Portfolio. Details can be found here, see the link near the bottom of the page: https://www.wcu.edu/learn/departments-schools-colleges/fpa/artdesign/undergraduate-programs/graphic.aspx.

The program also requires a laptop that meets the system requirements for Adobe CC. Details about computer options can be found here: https://www.wcu.edu/learn/academic-services/it/computer-guidelines/index.aspx - scroll down to College of Fine and Performing Arts - Graphic Design Program

Adobe CC software System Requirements: https://helpx.adobe.com/creative-cloud/system-requirements.html.

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT, SOFTWARE and SUPPLIES:
NOTE: a reliable source for art supplies, ordering online, is: Blick @ https://www.dickblick.com/. You may find similar supplies at Amazon.

• Laptop computer. That meets the system requirements for the Adobe Creative Cloud software (https://www.wcu.edu/learn/academic-services/it/computer-guidelines/index.aspx - scroll down to College of Fine and Performing Arts - Graphic Design Program). It is recommended you purchase this computer after receiving the decision regarding the entrance portfolio.
• ADOBE CC software license: student discounts are available with an educational discount via ADOBE. 100-200 level graphic design classes typically use: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign. You can choose to purchase your license by the month @ approximately $20.00 for 1 month; This class spans 4 months. You can also choose to purchase a 1 year educational license.
• MOUSE for laptop (optional)
  • much of the work using the software requires attention to details that are difficult to select and manipulate using a touchpad only.
• USB portable digital storage drive (100Gb or more memory/storage).
• Digital camera and the technical accessories necessary to download camera photos to your laptop computer.
• Lock for locker; lockers are free, simply select one along the halls in BAC, add a lock and tape with your name on the outside.
• Toolbox for carrying supplies
• Bristol Board Pad – 15 sheets - 11” x 14”
• 6 graphite pencils; Assorted Hardness: 5H,4H,2H, HB, 2B, 4B, 6B
• Pencil Sharpener
• Drafting Tape 1" wide
• 1 aluminum ruler with cork backing: sizes 18" or 24"
• Triangle 45/90 degrees, 8"
• Xacto® Knife AND
• #11 Xacto Blades
• 1, Kneaded Eraser
• 1, Staedtler Mars White Vinyl Eraser

NOTE: Non-majors must pay a $16.00 supplies fee towards materials suplied by the School of Art + Design. A VOUCHER will be provided by the instructor; take the voucher to the bookstore and pay the fee.

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ASSIGNMENTS (based on 100 pts)
NOTE: It is your responsibility to track and record due dates for assignments. They can be found within each assignment description within the class website.

• Assignment 1: Syntax of Composition - 25 points
• Assignment 2: Value + Line + Plane + Gestalt - 20 points
• Assignment 3: Color - 25 points
• Assignment 4: Word + Image - 20 points
• Quiz: 5 points
• Portfolio: 5 points

EXTRA CREDIT OPPORTUNITIES:
Earn up to 3 points (1 point each) for attending 3 lecture presentations and or workshops by a Visiting Artisi/Designer event this semester and writing a short response paper; details below.

Alternatively, feel free to attend free events at the Bardo Arts Center, and visiting speakers/scholars invited by departments and programs throughout the university, outside of the the School of Art and Design.

Short response paper must include the following:

• Name of visiting artist/designer
• Date,Time and Location of the event
• Describe work, a concept, or something about the presentation (content) that you felt was particularly interesting.
• Describe a connection to your work and or real life experiences or aspirations. talk a little about your personal perspective, and reflections.

Visiting Artist/Designer Spring 2024 Schedule

Eron Hare -Murals, Illustration, Adaptability
Feb 15, 1-2pm, BAC 130
https://eronhare.com

Erika Diamond
Juror for the 56th Annual Undergraduate Juried Exhibition
Mar 13, 1-2pm, BAC 130
https://www.erikadiamond.com

Brian Maxwell, Architecture- Healthcare design
Mar 21, 1:30-2:30pm, BAC 130
https://www.mhaworks.com/people/brian-a-maxwell-ra/

Barbara Westman, Printmaking/Fiber Arts
April 4, 1-2pm, BAC 130
https://www.barbarawestman.com

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BFA with Emphasis in Graphic Design

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FACULTY EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS/COURSE POLICIES

LINK TO THE CLASS WEBSITE is in your CANVAS account and or accessible at: http://malafratta.design.wcu.edu/

It is your responsibility to keep a record of assignment due dates. Assignment details can be found in the class website withing each assignment.

Each assignment allows for revisions based on feedback received during critiques. Attending and participating in critiques are mandatory.

CRITIQUES
Class critiques are an essential component of design studio practice. It is the time for presenting your work to the class and receiving critical constructive feedback about your work, and for exploring ideas. The significance of the feedback you receive is directly related to everyone participating in the critique.

• Attendance is REQUIRED for all critiques.
• Participation is REQUIRED.
• Presenting your work is REQUIRED.
• 1 point deducted for each critique missed.

ATTENDANCE

• Three absences are allowed for the semester without affecting your grade. These absences are for unexpected circumstances and for doctor's appointments, family trips, for the occasion that you feel sick, as well as for emergencies. Use them wisely.
• 1.5 points will be deducted for each absence that exceeds the 3 that are allowed.
• If you must miss class due to another university related activity please see the instructor as soon as possible with the dates.

ARRIVING LATE TO CLASS

• Arriving more than 20 minutes late to class = 1/3 absence.

LEAVING CLASS EARLY

• Leaving class before it is dismissed = 1/3 absence.
• If you must leave early please let the instructor know at the beginning of class.

LATE WORK POLICY

• All assignments, exercises, work for critiques and portfolios are due on the due dates as indicated in the assignment description, unless specified differently by the instructor.
• 1 point is deducted if your work is not submitted at the beginning of class on the due date.
• Work submitted later than 1 week after the due date will not be accepted.
• If you are unable to complete an assignment due to a situation beyond your control it is your responsibility to contact the instructor before the due date if possible, and to submit legitimate documentation.

LAST DAY TO WITHDRAW from CLASS with a "W": MARCH 22, 2024

COPYRIGHTED MATERIALS
Use of copyrighted material without permission is NOT ACCEPTABLE. You can use creative commons work and copyright free materials, however it is your responsibiltiy to educate yourself on the acceptable formats providing correct attributions if required.

University Policy 84 details guidelines around Copyright and all faculty, staff, and students are expected to familiarize themselves with the contents of this policy, especially if they are posting on WCU-related social media accounts.

AI USE:

• It is important to remember that ChatGPT and other AI tools are not a replacement for your own critical thinking and original ideas. The ultimate goal of this course and any tool used to submit work is to enhance your own learning and understanding, not to undermine it.
• As a college student, it is your responsibility to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity. This includes a) ensuring that all work submitted for grades is your own original work, and b) properly citing any sources that you use.
• Having AI write your paper constitutes plagiarism. If the source of the work is unclear, I will require you to meet with me to explain the ideas and your process.

TEXTING, SOCIAL MEDIA, CELL PHONE USE:
Cell phone use during class is prohibited. If you do not adhere to this policy cell phones will be collected and returned to you at the end of class.

If you need to use your cell phone during class you MUST LEAVE the CLASS and go into the hallway. You are responsible for all material missed during your time while on the phone.

CLASSROOM SAFETY
Students are expected to know and to adhere to all safety regulations and procedures as outlined by the safety policy manual and the instructor. Workspaces must be kept clean and organized.

PROFESSIONALISM / CIVILITY
Students are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner including but not limited to:

• a positive attitude towards learning,
• appropriate behavior and language,
• classroom participation with peers in constructive feedback,
• setting cell phones to vibrate if you must have them. If you must respond to a cell phone call OR text message take your phone outside into the hallway.

GET TO KNOW YOUR CLASSMATES
Share phone numbers and email addresses. If you have to miss class it is your responsibility to contact other members of the class for information and material covered while you were away.

IF YOU DO NOT UNDERSTAND THE MATERIAL or HAVE QUESTIONS related to the course and or assignment content it is your responsibility to contact your instructor and to make an appointment for assistance. In addition, graphic design tutors are avialble during open studio hours. The studio hours are posted outside the graphic design studio.

GRAPHIC DESIGN TUTORS
Bardo Arts Center, Rooms 252 and or 248, are design studios and are available for working outside of scheduled classes. The open lab hours will be posted shortly after the start of classes for the semester.

Studio tutors and montiors are selected and hired from the students enrolled in graphic design. They are knowledgeable about the graphic design program and software used in the graphic design classes. Consider them valuable resources of information.

TECHNOLOGY COMMONS HUNTER LIBRARY is a resource.
Located in the lower level of the library, the Tech Commons offers free workshops and tutorials throughout the semester. Check their website for details: https://www.wcu.edu/learn/academic-services/it/technology-commons/training/index.aspx.

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GRADING

IMPORTANT: Students pursuing the BFA with emphasis in Graphic Design MUST EARN a C or greater in all ART classes required for the degree.

IF a grade of C- or less is earned in Graphic Design Studio classes, you will have to retake the class BEFORE moving forward in the program. Since Graphic Design Studio class are offered once an academic year, this will delay your expected graduation date.

EVALUATION CRITERIA: definitions

PROCESS:

• RESEARCH. Is there evidence of significant and relevant research? Do you explore all aspects of the problem, including historical background, context, and functional concerns? Do you seek ideas and technical insight from multiple resources? Do you follow instructions?
• CONCEPT. Are your concepts inventive, outside of cliche and stereotypes? Do your concepts satisfy the objectives of a stated visual problem? Does your concept reflect research and investigation related to the subject of the assignment? Is your concept well integrated into the presentation of the assignment?
  

REALIZATION:

• VISUAL ORGANIZATION. Are all syntactic concerns, such as form, composition, and visual hierarchy, well articulated?
• COMMUNICATION. Does the solution present a clear message? Do all of the elements come together to form a unified experience? Is the solution appropriate for the intended audience?
• COLOR. Does the application of color support the message and satisfy aesthetic concerns? Does the use of color show evidence of an understanding of color theory?
• GRAPHICS. Do the drawing and other graphic elements exhibit technical development and conceptual integration? Do the drawing and other graphical elements reflect evolution through investigation?
• TYPOGRAPHY. Is typography effective in terms of structure, legibility, and function? Is typography integrated effectively as a visual element within the composition? Does the typography integrate with the overall concept for the visual message and experience?
• KINETICS. Does the solution provide a kinetic quality that holds the attention of viewers/readers? Are the kinetic aspects of the work an important component of the message are they well integrated into the presentation? Are the kinetic aspects of the work logical and easy to navigate and understand?
• CRAFT. Does the project reflect the appropriate use of tools and materials? Is the assignment presented in a professional manner? Is the craft of your presentation seamless so as not to distract from the overall presentation? Do your technical skills exhibit continued improvements?
• WRITTEN WORK. Is your writing appropriate for the context of the assignment? Is the writing interesting, informative, insightful? Is research evident in your writing? Are your sources cited correctly? Has the text content been proofed for spelling and grammatical errors?
  

PROFESSIONALISM:

• ATTENDANCE. Were you punctual, and did you exhibit a responsible attitude? Did you adhere to the attendance policy for the class?
• DEADLINES. Were your projects turned in on time?
• VERBAL ARTICULATION. Were you able to critically address your work and respond to concepts discussed in class critiques and/or class discussions? Are the critical reviews that you provided other students in the class clear, detailed, constructive and informative?
• PARTICIPATION/STUDIO PRACTICE. Did you actively contribute to critiques and topic discussions on a regular basis? Did you fully engage in research and studio practice using your time in class effectively? Did you stay on task? Were you motivated throughout the entire process? Were you proactive in resolving visual problems related to the assignments? Did you engage with classmates?

A GRADE of C or greater is REQUIRED for all art classes within an art major and minor, both BFA and BA degrees. FAILURE to earn a C or greater in the Graphic Design studio courses, requires that you re-take the class before moving forward in the Graphic Design program.

GRADING POINT SCALE: based on100 points. Points are accumulated throughout the semester. The points for each assignment are specified in the assignment descriptions and in this syllabus.The point and letter grade equivalents are listed below:

• 96.67 - 100 = A+
• 93.34 to 96.66 = A
• 90 to 93.33 = A-
• 86.67 to 89.99 = B+
• 83.34 to 86.66 = B
• 80 to 83.33 = B-
• 76.67 to 79.99 = C+
• 73.34 to 76.66 = C
• 70 to 73.33 = C-
• 66.67to 69.99 = D+
• 63.34 to 66.66 = D
• 60 to 63.33 = D-
• 59.99 to 0 = F

LETTER GRADES DEFINED:

"A Work" . Student work must reflect outstanding achievement both in quantity and quality, and all work must be completed as assigned.The student must display exceptional attitude in critique participation, response to criticism, and professional conduct. Student ability to communicate and execute ideas exhibits outstanding achievement. The student must adhere to departmental and/or faculty attendance policy.

"B Work" . Student work must reflect above-average achievement both in quantity and quality, and all work must be completed as assigned. The student must display a positive attitude in critique participation, response to criticism, and professional conduct. The student must adhere to departmental and/or faculty attendance policy.

"C Work" . Student work must reflect an acceptable achievement both in quantity and quality, and all work must be completed as assigned. The student must display a positive attitude in critique participation, response to criticism, and professional conduct. The student should exhibit an acceptable level of ability in communication and execution of ideas and have an acceptable pattern of attendance.

"D Work" . Student achievement is below average in quality and/or quantity. The student response to criticism, professional conduct, and participation in critique is below acceptable standards or reflects an indifferent attitude. Student work reflects an inability to satisfactorily communicate and execute ideas. Student pattern of attendance may be unsatisfactory.

"F Work" . Student work and attitude reflect an unsatisfactory level of achievement both in quantity and quality. The student exhibits an unsatisfactory ability to communicate and execute ideas and a pattern of low productivity. Student attendance record may be unacceptable. Lack of participation in critiques, poor response to criticism, and inappropriate professional conduct.

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LAST DAY to Withdraw from classes with a "W" is MARCH 22, 2024.

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Diversity at Western Carolina University is all-inclusive and recognizes everyone and every group as part of the diversity that should be valued. It includes race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, geography, religion, disability, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, education, marital status, language and linguistic differences, and physical appearance. It also involves different ideas, perspectives, and values.

STUDENT RESOURCES

• WCU’s Academic Calendar
• myWCU
• Registrar's Office
• Canvas Student Guides
• Supported Browser and Computer Requirements
• University Policies and Related Procedures
• Office of Accessibility REsources (OAR)
• University Health Services

ACADEMIC RESOURCES

• Accessibility Resources
• Brainfuse (tutoring for distance learners)
• Center for Career and Professional Development
• First Year Experience
• Hunter Library
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• Mentoring and Persistence to Success (MAPS)
  • You may contact MAPS at 828.227.7127 or email maps@wcu.edu for more information. 
• Mathematics Tutoring Center
  • Contact us at 828.227.3830.
• Military Student Services
• Registrar's Office
• Tutoring for Distance Students
• Undergraduate Advising Center
• Undergraduate Course Catalog
• Writing and Learning Commons  (WaLC)

CAMPUS RESOURCES and ACTIVITIES

• Academic Calendar 
  • University Final Exam Schedulelink is located within the registrar webpage.
• Be Prepared for an Emergency
• Counseling and Psychological Services
• Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity Programs
• Health Services
• myWCU

TECHNICAL RESOURCES

• Canvas Help
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  • Login to Canvas
  • Supported Browsers & Computer Requirements
  • Canvas on the Web
    • How do I get help with Canvas as a student?
    • How do I get help with the Student app on my  Android device or  iOS device? 
      • Download the Canvas Student Android App
      • Download the Canvas Student iOS Mobile App
    • Canvas Operational Status
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  • Information Technology at WCU
    • IT Help Desk
    • Learn about the Technology Commons

INSTITUTIONAL POLICIES

• Statement for Wearing Masks
  As the WCU Community Creed articulates, members of the WCU community are expected to live by high standards of academic and personal integrity and embrace their responsibility as a member of the Catamount community. In recognition of this responsibility, and in response to the best available science and current guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, wearing masks are optional. If you have any symptoms related to COVID please visit the University Health Center. They will test you and provide guideance on how to proceed.
• Community Vision for Inclusive Excellence Statement:
  The diverse perspectives encountered at WCU are an important part of the preparation of students for roles as regional, national, and global leaders who contribute to the improvement of society. It is expected that members of the WCU community will not only coexist with those who are different from themselves, but also nurture respect and appreciation of those differences. We encourage civil discourse as a part of the learning enterprise, and as a campus we do not tolerate harassing or discriminating behavior that seeks to marginalize or demean members of our community. Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity Programs
• Civil Discourse at Western Carolina: Consistent with WCU’s core values and our campus creed, the WCU community accepts the freedoms and responsibilities of our shared community.  WCU encourages all to clearly express their own views while at the same time seeking to understand the varieties of style, identity, and opinion that are held in any diverse community.  In order for us to sustain a learning environment that promotes and values freedom of expression, we have a shared charge to accept personal responsibility for our actions, reactions, and speech, while seeking to learn from the actions, reactions, and speech of others. 
• Accommodations for Students with Disabilities:Accommodations for Students with Disabilities: Western Carolina University is committed to providing equal educational opportunities for students with disabilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal anti-discrimination statute that provides comprehensive civil rights for persons with disabilities. Among other things, this legislation requires that students with disabilities be guaranteed a learning environment that provides for reasonable accommodation of their disabilities. If you believe you have a disability requiring an accommodation, please contact the Office of Accessibility Resources located in Killian Annex or call 828-227-2716. For additional information, visit go.wcu.edu/oar
• Academic Integrity Policy and Reporting Process:
  This policy addresses academic integrity violations of undergraduate and graduate students. Graduate students should read inside the parenthesis below to identify the appropriate entities in charge of that step of the process. https://www.wcu.edu/experience/dean-of-students/academic-integrity.aspx
• Video Capture Policy. Faculty and staff at Western Carolina University (WCU or University) respect the privacy of students, employees and visitors. WCU authorizes video capture and the use of video capture technology for university purposes that include, but are not limited to, scholarly, health care and commercial purposes. WCU is committed to implementing and maintaining a Video Capture Policy that maintains privacy and security for the campus community, but also allows the University to advance its educational mission.https://www.wcu.edu/discover/leadership/office-of-the-chancellor/legal-counsel-office/university-policies/numerical-index/university-policy-122.aspx

WEATHER INFORMATION

• Adverse weather and Emergency Events/Closing Policy
  https://www.wcu.edu/discover/leadership/office-of-the-chancellor/legal-counsel-office/university-policies/numerical-index/university-policy-41.aspx
• National Weather Forecast for Cullowhee: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=35.3117&lon=-83.1783#.YdX8oGjMIuU
• National Weather Forecast for Asheville:https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=35.5987&lon=-82.5534#.YdX8yWjMIuU"
• DOT Road Conditions:
  https://drivenc.gov/

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