The course is suitable for those who are new to the field or those who want to improve their existing skills.
The course is structured into six modules that cover different aspects of graphic design:
The first module: Introduces students to the principles of design, including typography, color theory, and composition. Students will learn how to use typography to create visually appealing designs, and how to use color to create contrast and balance.
The second module: Focuses on the elements of design, such as lines, shapes, and textures. Students will learn how to use these elements to create visually interesting designs, and how to use them to convey different moods and emotions.
The third module: Covers layout and composition, including how to use grids and alignment to create visually appealing designs. Students will also learn about the importance of whitespace and how to use it effectively.
The fourth module: Covers digital design, including how to use industry-standard software such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Students will learn how to create digital designs for a variety of purposes, such as social media graphics and website layouts.
The fifth module: Covers print design, including how to create designs for posters, brochures, and other print media. Students will learn about print design principles, such as resolution and bleed, and how to prepare their designs for print.
The final module: Covers branding and identity design, including how to create a cohesive brand identity across multiple platforms. Students will learn about logo design, brand guidelines, and how to create a brand strategy.
Throughout the course, students will complete a series of design projects that apply the principles and techniques covered in each module. These projects are designed to help students develop their skills and understanding of the design process. Additionally, there are quizzes and assignments to test their knowledge and provide feedback.
By the end of the course, students will have a solid understanding of the fundamental principles of graphic design, and be able to create their own designs using industry-standard software such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. The course provides a comprehensive introduction to the world of graphic design, providing students with the skills and knowledge they need to create compelling designs for a range of purposes.
Course Content:
The Fundamentals of Graphic Design course on Coursera, created by Michael Worthington, is divided into six modules. Each module covers a specific aspect of graphic design and contains multiple lectures, quizzes, and assignments. Here is a breakdown of the course structure:
- Introduction to Graphic Design Principles
- 9 lectures
- 2 quizzes
- 1 peer-graded assignment
- Elements of Design
- 7 lectures
- 2 quizzes
- 1 peer-graded assignment
- Layout and Composition
- 7 lectures
- 2 quizzes
- 1 peer-graded assignment
- Digital Design
- 9 lectures
- 2 quizzes
- 1 peer-graded assignment
- Print Design
- 6 lectures
- 2 quizzes
- 1 peer-graded assignment
- Branding and Identity Design
- 7 lectures
- 2 quizzes
- 1 peer-graded assignment
Overall, the course consists of 45 lectures, 12 quizzes, and 6 peer-graded assignments. Students are expected to complete each module in sequence and pass the quizzes and assignments to receive a certificate of completion.
Reviews:
As a former student of the Fundamentals of Graphic Design course on Coursera, I can say that it is a well-designed and informative course. The course is divided into six modules, each focusing on a different aspect of graphic design. The modules cover topics such as design principles, typography, layout, digital and print design, and branding and identity design.
The lectures in each module are well-organized and easy to follow, with clear explanations and examples provided by the instructor, Michael Worthington. The videos are high quality, and the instructor's voice is clear and engaging, making it easy to stay focused and retain the information presented.
One of the strengths of the course is the hands-on approach to learning. Each module includes assignments that allow students to apply the principles and techniques learned in the lectures. These assignments are challenging but rewarding, and provide an opportunity for students to hone their design skills and develop a portfolio of work.
Another strength of the course is the use of industry-standard software such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Students have access to these tools throughout the course, and are encouraged to use them to complete the assignments. This is an excellent opportunity for students to gain experience with these software programs, which are widely used in the graphic design industry.
The quizzes and peer-graded assignments are also useful tools for assessing learning and providing feedback. The quizzes test students' understanding of the material, while the assignments allow them to apply what they have learned in a practical context. The peer-graded assignments provide an opportunity for students to receive feedback from their peers and to learn from others' work.
In conclusion, the Fundamentals of Graphic Design course on Coursera is an excellent introduction to the world of graphic design. It is well-structured, informative, and engaging, with a hands-on approach to learning that is both challenging and rewarding. I would highly recommend this course to anyone who wants to learn the basics of graphic design or improve their existing skills.
At the time, the course has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on over 16,057 ratings.
What you'll learn:
After completing the Fundamentals of Graphic Design course on Coursera, students will have gained a solid foundation in the basics of graphic design. Specifically, they will have acquired the following skills:
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Understanding of design principles: Students will have a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of design, including color theory, typography, composition, and visual hierarchy.
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Ability to use industry-standard design software: Students will have learned how to use industry-standard software such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop to create digital designs.
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Skills in print design: Students will have gained skills in print design, including knowledge of print production techniques and the ability to create designs for print.
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Knowledge of branding and identity design: Students will have gained an understanding of branding and identity design and will be able to create logos, brand guidelines, and other branding materials.
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Ability to create effective design layouts: Students will have learned how to create effective design layouts for a variety of media, including websites, print materials, and social media.
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Ability to work with clients: Students will have gained skills in client communication, project management, and presenting design work to clients.
Overall, the Fundamentals of Graphic Design course provides students with a strong foundation in the basics of graphic design and prepares them for further study or a career in the field.
Author:
Michael Worthington is a graphic designer, illustrator, and educator who has taught graphic design for over 20 years. He is the instructor of the Fundamentals of Graphic Design course on Coursera.
Worthington is highly regarded in the graphic design community for his expertise in the field. He has worked as a designer and illustrator for clients in a variety of industries, including publishing, advertising, and entertainment. His work has been featured in numerous publications, and he has received awards for his design work.
In addition to his work as a designer, Worthington is an experienced educator who has taught graphic design at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. He is known for his engaging teaching style and his ability to make complex design concepts accessible to students.
Worthington's expertise in graphic design is evident in his teaching. He provides clear explanations and examples of design principles and techniques, and he encourages students to apply what they have learned to real-world design projects. His use of industry-standard software and his emphasis on hands-on learning make his courses valuable resources for anyone interested in pursuing a career in graphic design.
Overall, Michael Worthington is a highly respected and knowledgeable graphic designer and educator who is well-suited to teach the Fundamentals of Graphic Design course on Coursera. His expertise and engaging teaching style make him an excellent instructor for anyone interested in learning about graphic design.
Requirements:
Here are some more detailed requirements for the Fundamentals of Graphic Design course by Michael Worthington:
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Computer and software: Students will need access to a computer and software programs such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. These programs are used throughout the course for designing and producing graphics.
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Basic design skills: While the course is suitable for beginners, it is helpful to have some basic design skills before starting. This includes an understanding of design concepts such as color theory, composition, and typography.
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Time commitment: The course is self-paced, but students should expect to spend around 4-6 hours per week on coursework. This includes watching video lectures, reading course materials, completing assignments, and working on design projects.
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English language proficiency: The course is conducted in English, so students should have a good understanding of the language in order to follow the course materials and participate in online discussions.
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Internet access: Students will need a reliable internet connection to access the course materials and participate in online discussions and assignments.
Overall, the Fundamentals of Graphic Design course requires a moderate level of computer skills, design knowledge, and time commitment. However, with dedication and effort, students can gain a solid foundation in graphic design and develop skills that are valuable in a variety of industries.
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