CGA2030 DIGITAL IMAGING (PHOTOSHOP)
3 Credit Hours
Student Level:
This course is open to students on the college level in either the freshman or the sophomore year.
Catalog Description:
CGA2030 - Introduction to Digital Imaging (3 hrs.)
This course will explore in-depth techniques in digital imaging software using Adobe Photoshop that progress from beginner to advanced. It is ideal for students interested in learning how to composite and manipulate images.
Course Classification:
Lecture
Prerequisites:
Basic computer skills and keyboarding ability.
Controlling Purpose:
This course will explore techniques in digital imaging software using Adobe Photoshop.
Learner Outcomes:
Upon completion of the course, the student will:
1. Apply critical thinking skills to solve visual problems using Adobe Photoshop
2. Demonstrate knowledge of Adobe Photoshop by selecting and applying appropriate tools to complete a variety of specific graphic design exercises
3. Demonstrate knowledge of specific technical issues relative to the creation of raster files including resolution, preparation for digital use, and printing.
4. Utilize industry terminology related to graphic design software and production.
Unit Outcomes for Criterion Based Evaluation:
The following outline defines the minimum core content not including the final examination period. Instructors may add other material as time allows.
UNIT 1: The Photoshop Interface
Outcomes: Upon completion of this unit, the students will have the ability to successfully utilize the Photoshop interface.
- Navigate the Photoshop interface
- Create new images and open existing ones
- Modify software preferences
UNIT 2: Working with Images
Outcomes: Upon completion of this unit, the students will be able to manipulate images.
- Work with multiple images
- Apply rulers, guides, and grids
- Demonstrate an understanding of pixels and resolution
- Resize and crop images
- Manipulate the dimensions of the canvas
UNIT 3: Selections
Outcomes: Upon completion of this unit, the students will be able to select different parts of images.
- Use a variety of selection tools to create selections within an image
- Combine selections
- Modify selections
- Save selections
UNIT 4: Layers
Outcomes: Upon completion of this unit, the students will be able to successfully work with layers.
- Create, duplicate, select, group, link, and delete layers
- Transform and modify layers using a variety of transform tools
- Utilize different forms of layers, including image, text, background and adjustment layers.
- Manipulate a layer’s fill and opacity
UNIT 5: Painting and Brushes
Outcomes: Upon completion of this unit, the students will be able to utilize brushes.
- Use brush and drawing tools
- Work with colors, swatches, and blending modes
- Create and use gradients
UNIT 6: Retouching and Modifying Images
Outcomes: Upon completion of this unit, the students will be able to adjust and retouch photos
- Use a variety of healing tools including the clone stamp, healing brush, patch tool, and content-aware fills
- Create and apply masks to hide selected parts of image layers
UNIT 7: Special Effects
Outcomes: Upon completion of this unit, the students will be able to apply advanced effects to an image
- Utilize filters to modify a layer’s visual appearance
- Apply layer styles to enhance an image
- Use blending modes to add texture or alter a layer’s color
Projects Required:
The course will include a range of projects that will demonstrate competency of the above techniques. For an updated description of these projects, refer to the course syllabus.
Textbook:
Contact Bookstore for current textbook.
Materials/Equipment Required:
- Access to Adobe Photoshop software (face to face sections of the class will use software already installed in the graphic design computer lab)
- A method to save and back-up work such as a flash drive, external hard drive, or access to an online cloud storage service
- A sketchbook and drawing implements, including pencils, black pens, markers, colored pencils, etc.
- Tools to mount printed artwork, which may include: a ruler, x-acto knife, utility knife, spray adhesive, and mat board.
A specific list of supplies can be found in the course syllabus.
Attendance Policy:
Students should adhere to the attendance policy outlined by the instructor in the course syllabus.
Grading Policy:
The grading policy will be outlined by the instructor in the course syllabus.
Maximum class size:
Based on classroom occupancy
Course Time Frame:
The U.S. Department of Education, Higher Learning Commission and the Kansas Board of Regents define credit hour and have specific regulations that the college must follow when developing, teaching and assessing the educational aspects of the college. A credit hour is an amount of work represented in intended learning outcomes and verified by evidence of student achievement that is an institutionally-established equivalency that reasonably approximates not less than one hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours of out-of-class student work for approximately fifteen weeks for one semester hour of credit or an equivalent amount of work over a different amount of time. The number of semester hours of credit allowed for each distance education or blended hybrid courses shall be assigned by the college based on the amount of time needed to achieve the same course outcomes in a purely face-to-face format.
Refer to the following policies:
402.00 Academic Code of Conduct
263.00 Student Appeal of Course Grades
403.00 Student Code of Conduct
Disability Services Program:
Cowley College, in recognition of state and federal laws, will accommodate a student with a documented disability. If a student has a disability which may impact work in this class and which requires accommodations, contact the Disability Services Coordinator.
Updated 6-1-2019
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