Course Goals
The aim of this class level is learn how to represent
sequential, multi-level, complex information in a clear, visual communication
form. This process is known as information design or information
architecture. The outcome is to create a ‘memorable
experience’ for your audience, rather than just a ‘cultural
artifact.’ This process is know
as ‘experience design.’
We will create a body of work
under the rubric of addressing the growing epidemic of obesity in
this country. Right now, over ¾ of people are overweight; ½ of
these are obese. We will explore how the demographic of young adults,
18-25 years old, are effected and what can be done to alleviate this
epidemic. We will create an information design project, via a Public
Service Announcement, where the goal will be to educate and persuade
the UMD students to be aware of and change their unhealthy behaviors
to positive ones. We will conduct original research, write our own
content, and design the project. Finally, we will test our outcomes
in the public realm.
Course Project
Next, the entire class will vote on one visual concept (or a hybrid
version). Then everyone will break into 3 major medium teams--- print,
video and web--- to complete the final PSA campaign.
1. REALIZE = 25% of final grade
Individually, you will conduct field
research and collect data to support your topic. The broad categories
will be eating, moving, shopping and doing. You will write a report
on your findings and use the content for brainstorming as well as
sketching thumbnails and roughs of your visual and verbal concepts
for the class’ information design
project.
2. VISUALIZE= 25% of final grade
Then, you will work in design teams
of 3 people, comprised of 3 different mediums- print, video and web.
In this ”home” group,
you will combine your individual research and concepts. Together
you will create comps of your “pitch” for
the final PSA communication campaign2 i.e. print collateral (posters,
pamphlets), web (branching system), video (DVD mapping). Then the
class will vote on one visual and conceptual direction or a hybrid
one.
3. ACTUALIZE=25% of final grade
The entire class, while working in their broad medium groups will
bring the entire visual and conceptual Public Service Announcements
campaign to a finished visual and verbal communication form. Then
everyone will locate UMD forums and outlets to distribute the final
project you have created in the public realm on campus.
Ongoing: 25%
Readings, writings and discussions to apprehend the fundamental practices
of information and experience design. 15% of final grade.
Participation
and attendance is critical, especially with group projects where
members are dependent upon you. 10% of final grade.
Overview of class
You will work in specialized groups to lead class discussions in
your area
Home and Medium Groups initially will be voluntary, and
then assigning will take place dependent on design interest, ability,
timing, etc.
You will work as a graphic designer in a STUDIO setting, with your
classmates acting as members of your design team. You will nominate
a team leader, who represent your group, and meet with me to make
key class decisions throughout the semester. I will act in the capacity
of a Creative Art Director.
Course Readings (subject to change depending on needs of class)
Required:
Citizen Designer, Steven Heller and Veronique Vienne
Experience Design, Nat Shredhoff
National Geographic Magazine article on Fat
Time Magazine article on Obesity
Keep up to date on what is going on with obesity in the USA by reading
newspapers and magazines,
watching national and local evening news programs, listening to radio
(NPR) or searching websites
Other articles, reading handouts depending on need
Suggested:
Envisioning Information, Edward Tufte
Information Architects, Richard Saul Wurman
Reading Response Form (last
page of PDF syllabi, you must print this out)
