VAFA102 3-D Design Fundamentals

Department of The Arts: Visual Arts

  1. Course Number and Title

    VAFA102 3-D Design Fundamentals

  2. Number of Credits

    3 credits

  3. Minimum Number of Instructional Minutes Per Semester

    4050

  4. Prerequisites

    None

    Corequisites

    None

  5. Other Pertinent Information

    In addition to class studio time, students work five hours outside of class each week under the supervision of a lab assistant or at home. There is a studio supply cost for this course. Safe shop practices are emphasized.

  6. Catalog Course Description

    This foundation course covers the elements and principles of three-dimensional form in space and lays the groundwork for future 3-D courses. The materials employed introduce basic technical skills, and conceptual approaches are emphasized. The relationship between two- and three-dimensional thinking is stressed.

  7. Required Course Content and Direction

    1. Learning Goals:

      1. Course Learning Goals

        2. Students will

        1. demonstrate an understanding of the elements and principles of design as applied to forms in space;
        2. recognize and use space as an element of design;
        3. demonstrate an understanding of craft as it relates to sculptural materials;
        4. critique, discuss, and analyze their own work, as well as the work of other classmates; and
        5. analyze projects through critiques, oral presentations, and discussions.

      2. Core Learning Goals (if applicable)


        3. This course is not included in the Core.

    2. Planned Sequence of Topics and/or Learning Activities:

      In the creation of three-dimensional form, students will

      1. apply basic design principles, such as line, plane, shape, volume, mass, and space;
      2. apply basic design elements, such as texture, surface, unity, harmony, rhythm, movement, static, tension, etc.;
      3. solve three-dimensional design problems using basic design principles and materials, such as paper, cardboard, clay, wire, styrofoam, plaster, etc.
      4. solve three-dimensional design problems using basic design principles together with more permanent materials and power tools;
      5. apply the specific vocabulary of three-dimensional design for effective critical analysis; and
      6. demonstrate safe shop practices.

    3. Assessment Methods for Core Learning Goals:

      1. Assessment Methods for Course Learning Goals

        1. Course learning goals are assessed with group critiques of all assignments, based on the successful design, execution, and completion of specific projects, and on the appropriate use of tools and shop safety practices.
        2. At least two individual critiques with the instructor are held each semester, to assess projects using the above criteria and to review students’ overall progress.

      2. Assessment Methods for Core Learning Goals (if applicable)


        3. This course is not in the Core curriculum.

    4. Reference, Resource, or Learning Materials to be used by Students:

      Slides, video, or digital technology are selected by instructor. See course format.

  8. Teaching Methods Employed

    Section VIII is not being used in new and revised syllabi as of 12/10/08.

Review/Approval Date - 12/04; Revised 6/09; Revised 4/2012