Introduction to Graphic Design for Communication

This module introduces students to the basic tenets of graphic design as a mode of communicating and messaging. Beginning with a brief overview of graphic design history, students will learn about working with typefaces, the basics of structuring informational hierarchies, how to work with color and image, and how language and visuals come together in graphic compositions. With each module, students will complete design assignments that incrementally build up to a finished digital poster. With short quizzes and technical demonstrations, this course is designed to give students exposure to contemporary graphic design practices, give them strategies for making design, and hands-on experience creating! 

By the end of this module, participants will be able to:

• Have an understanding of basic typographic vocabulary.
• Be able to design information with multiple levels of hierarchy and craft accessible reading experiences across multiple types of media.
• Learn how to successfully integrate typography and images into compositions.
• Basic strategies for approaching design work, considering projects and audiences.
• Understand how design systems and compositions work to create meaning.

Instructor: Kaela Kennedy (Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston, Rhode Island School of Design)

Image-Making for Scientists

NOTE: Registration requires a personal Gmail address; school-affiliated accounts will not have access.

Image-Making for Scientists seeks to inspire a different way of thinking about imagery in science and to introduce participants to the processes and considerations of creating images that resonate strongly while conveying necessary information. 

By the end of this module, participants will be able to:

• Learn the importance of images in an information-driven society.
• Understand the basic principles of what makes a good image.
• Build strong visuals that can efficiently communicate while also matching the given context.

More Coming Soon!