syllabus

Online Course Components: https://montserrat.instructure.com/courses/1004 join “Montserrat Animation + Interactive Media” on FaceBook Syllabus This syllabus is for introductory/communication purposes only – the course outline is an online living document and subject to change. It is the student’s responsibility to check the online course resources on a regular basis. Course Objectives At the completion of this course students: understand modelling and rigging of 3D characters in preparation for use in animation or video games know vocabulary and techniques common to modelling and rigging 3D character animation combine 3D techniques with animation principles and real-world observation to create convincing character gestures, expressions, movement, and relationships use animation “best practices” including planning, story boarding, and project management become familiar with rendering and the post-production process using digital video, sound and the internet explore the history of 3D computer animation and the contemporary use of CGI in industry and in the art world. Class Format This class will be a combination of lecture, critique, software instruction/research, on-line assignments and working lab time.  While a large percent of class time will be spent in front of the computer an equally important part of class time will be spent in discussion and in the development of ideas.  While mastery of technical skills is important, this is not a course on “How to Use 3D Animation Software.”  You will be graded on how you develop ideas and the creative use of tools to express them. This class will require significant out-of-class access to labs and network.

Criteria for Credit  Blog Requirement   Each student will be expected to maintain a blog documenting/detailing ALL in class and out of class work as it occurs.  Failure to complete timely blog entries will result in a significant grade reduction. Each entry in the blog must include:         Date, Time, Duration Activity Reflection Filename, source file names and location of backup.    Presentation   Each student will be expected to present their work, the work of other animators, and techniques they have researched to the class throughout the semester.  In-Class Exercises   Each student will be expected to complete a series of in-class exercises.  Projects   Each student will be expected to complete a midterm and a final project. To be considered complete this must include planning documents, finished storyboard, animatic, export to QuickTime and web formats, archived files, updated sketchbook/logbook entries and self assessment. Students are expected to plan for and use in-class work time productively.  Archive   All exercises and project files must be archived according to specified parameters.  Resilience   The highly technical nature of this course almost guarantees that students will experience setbacks. The struggle is real, and is an important aspect of this course. Students will be expected to respond to setbacks in a professional, creative, and constructive manner.

Attendance Because of the large amount of technical material to be covered in class, attendance is mandatory and promptness is essential. Each class meeting will build on the tools learned in the previous class and on homework assignments. If you miss a class you WILL fall behind. It is the student’s responsibility to learn any material covered or complete any assignments from a class that is missed. Attendance means: on time, for the entire class, with assigned work, with needed materials, ready to work. Any absence must be preceded by an email notifying faculty of the expected absence and requesting any information regarding makeup work. More than three absences may result in a grade of No Credit.  Late Work   Will not be accepted unless the student has made prior arrangement (before the due date) with faculty. Materials Material Requirement  Sketchbook/journal, writing/drawing tools, portable storage device (16GB flash drive or portable hard drive). Access to the Internet, Maya, and Adobe Creative Suite at home or in labs. Accessibility It is our intention to create an equitable and accessible learning environment for all students. Any student with a documented learning disability is encouraged to contact Disabilities Services Coordinator Meagan Grant meagan.grant@montserrat.edu. If a student decides to register with the Disability Services Office and is approved to use accommodations, they will need to make a time to talk to the faculty to figure out what this means in the context of each course. In addition, any student with any other issue that may impact course performance may contact faculty privately to discuss strategies for satisfactory completion of course requirements.

Course Outline Module I: Introduction to Maya + Rigging Wednesday August 30 Monday September 4* Wednesday September 6 Monday September 6 Module II: Modelling + Rigging Bipeds Wednesday September 13 Monday September 18 Wednesday September 20 Monday September 25 Wednesday September 27 Monday October 2 Module III: Walkcycles + Expressive Gestures Wednesday October 4 Monday October 9† Wednesday October 11 Monday October 16 Wednesday October 18 Monday October 23 Module IV: Complex Modelling Wednesday October 25 Monday October 30 Wednesday November 1 Monday November 6 Wednesday November 8 Monday November 13 Module V: Final Project Wednesday November 15 Monday November 20 Wednesday November 22‡ Monday November 27 Wednesday November 29 Monday December 4 Wednesday December 6 Monday December 11 Module VI: Demo Reel Wednesday December 13      *Labor Day, No Classes.   † Columbus Day, No Classes.       ‡ Thanksgiving Recess, No Classes.