Digital Arts
Introduction to Coding
This course focuses on computer programming, or coding, using the Ruby Programming Language. Ruby is an easy-to-learn, yet powerful object-oriented programming language with a wide variety of applications. It is the basis of Ruby on Rails, which is used to build popular websites such as Twitter, Soundcloud, Kickstarter, Groupon and Jango. Students learn a brief history of computer programming, discuss the contributions of women in the computer science field, and understand the processes for planning and building simple computer applications using Ruby. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to design, test and implement their own applications.
3D Animation & Design
In this course students will learn the skills necessary to become a 3D artist and animator. Using industry standard 3D and 2D software, students will create 3D models that will be used in animation, game design, and architectural visualization. When they have finished the course, the students will have a digital portfolio featuring 3D models, textures, and animations showcasing their new skills. Fee required.
3D Animation & Design II
This course is a continuation of the level I course. In addition to the programs used in Level I, students in this Level II course will continue to work on various types of computer animation, design, and printing. Students will learn more advanced programs used in colleges and businesses such as CAD programs - Autodesk Design Fusion 360 and SolidWorks - for designing and printing as well as the professional 3D software program Adobe After Effects and Premiere Pro to create 3D text, video, and enhanced animations. Students will also lean the basics of CGI and 3D modeling for gaming
Media Arts I
This digital art course is designed to introduce students to multimedia creation. Using various programs from the Adobe Creative Suite, students will explore different methods of expressing themselves digitally by creating original works of digital art. Elements of art and principles of design are examined and inform the process of creation in order to develop compelling works. Photo editing, digital painting, composition, illustration, and graphic design are a few of the subjects covered. The course will develop technical computer skills relevant to any career choice. Media Arts students participate in an art exhibit at the end of the course.
Media Arts II
This course is designed to be a follow up to Media Arts I. Students will dive deeper into the world of digital median and continue to develop creative problem solving skills. Animation, graphic design, and digital storytelling are some themes covered. This course gives students experience with Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Lightroom, Premier Pro, and After Effects. Digital Media II students participate in an art exhibit at the end of the course.
Photography
This course examines a variety of techniques to improve their photography skills. Students learn how to operate digital SLR cameras, identifying its features and uses in various situations. Fundamental elements of photography, including composition, exposure and depth of field are explored through lab activities and projects. Techniques for framing, dealing with background and lighting, and composition in portraiture are presented. Image editing and correcting flaws are examined through Photoshop software in the computer lab.
Television Production I
Television Production I prepares students to learn the fundamentals of television journalism. Students gain practical skills in our state-of-the art digital television studio. They receive “hands-on” training recording video, editing and utilizing graphics and music to enhance video production. They also develop interviewing, reporting, and writing skills. This course gives them an opportunity to become global citizens with daily attention on current affairs/news. This class emphasizes the basics of broadcasting but also emphasizes leadership, teamwork, planning, and learning about a growing field.
Television Production II
Students in Television Production II, will be part of the news team that helps create our live student newscast WMCA. The course emphasizes production value. Students work in groups and individually on news reports and learn all roles involved in producing a live weekly show by rotating positions throughout the semester. TV II students will also enter national/local broadcast journalism competitions. This class prepares students for work in major professional stations. Students visit a professional television studio and acquire the skills to use advanced television and film editing equipment.