Applied Technology Program

The Applied Technology program offers courses utilizing the latest computer and video technology in addition to an Architecture class involving traditional drawing and design materials. Technical courses are offered in computer programming and web design. Digital imaging and video courses stress content and the use of the computer as a creative tool. Students may choose from a variety of electives or focus on one area of interest. Advanced level classes require successful completion of prerequisites or permission of the instructor.

Courses offered are:

DeskTop Publishing and Graphic Design (Semester)

Digital Imaging and Collage (Semester)

Advanced Topics Digital Imaging and Multimedia (Semester)

3D Graphics, (CAD) PC Lab (Semester)

Architectural Drafting and Design (Semester)

Introduction to C++ Programming I (Semester)

Introduction to C++ Programming II (Semester)

Video Production

Web Site Design and Publishing I

Web Design and Publishing II

Introduction to Windows 2000 and Applications (Semester)

Desktop Publishing and Graphic Design Semester – 2.50 Credits Course #710

For students in grades: 9, 10, 11, and 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: This is an exploratory course stressing the problem solving aspect of high production graphic design. The topics in this course include effective communication through graphic design and layout, analysis of popular media including the web, typography, and icon and pictogram creation. Taught in the Macintosh computer lab, students will use various word processing, drawing and page layout computer programs, including Adobe PhotoShop and PageMaker. An understanding of how to navigate through a Macintosh or Windows computer is helpful though not required. Sample of previous students’ work may be viewed on the Internet at www.colonial.net/schoolweb/cchsweb/art/desktop.html.

Evaluation: Evaluation will be based on homework assignments, the planning and execution of appropriate graphic arts projects, and tests.

3D Graphics, (CAD) PC Lab Semester – 2.50 Credits Course #715

For students in grades 9, 10, 11, and 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: Understanding and manipulating 3D graphic programs, in order to assist the design and rendering of various objects and environments. Assignments ranging from one or more of the following subjects: interior design, landscape design, vehicle design, product and packaging design.

Programs Used: 3D Studio Max, True Space, Vista Pro, Photoshop, Illustrator, Image ready.

Emphasis on Portfolio driven assignments along with independent projects in student special interest areas.

Evaluation: Evaluation will be based on in-class participation, application to task, and the student’s portfolio of work for the course.

Architectural Drafting and Design* Semester – 2.50 Credits Course #720

For students in grades 9, 10, 11, and 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: In this course students will gain an understanding of the various skills involved in the field of architecture. The basic design concepts of architectural design will be taught through sketching, drafting and model building. In addition, students will learn about the history of architecture, as well as the forms in which it is practiced today, by meeting with visiting architects who will present their work, join the class for critiques, or discuss their use of the topic being studied at a given point in the course. Visits to the DeCordova Museum, the Gropius House and other local sites are an important aspect of the course. Students will produce a portfolio of work including drafts, final drawings, free hand sketches as well as three-dimensional studies and models. Studying the evolution of architectural styles and how they have been influenced by technology and society today will provide students with applicable knowledge in the field. The goal of the course is to provide a sampling of skills from the world or architectural engineering. There are regular “at home” projects, which are required for the final portfolio.

Evaluation: Evaluation will be based on class work projects written work, class participation and final portfolios.

*Offered in alternated years beginning 2001-2002

(Courses #710, #715, #720 and /or #808 can be taken to prepare for this course.

Digital Imaging and Collage Semester – 2.50 Credits Course #725

For student in grades 9, 10, 11, and 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: In this course students will develop the skills necessary for manipulating and producing images using the computer. Emphasis is placed on a basic understanding of the computer as a creative tool including painting applications, design and composition, montage preparing images for the web, resolution, scanning, digital cameras and printing. Students will work in the school’s computer lab on Macintosh computers and will use a variety of programs including Adobe PhotoShop and Morph. They will use the computer to create original designs, as well as to combine existing images and photographs. Creative problem solving, personal expressing, and competence gained in the practical use of the two computer programs will be stressed. An understanding of how to navigate through a Macintosh or Windows computer is helpful though not required.

Evaluation: Evaluation will be based on class work, projects, written work, class participation and final portfolios.

Advanced Topics in Digital Imaging & Multimedia Semester – 2.50 Credits Course #726

For students in grades: 9, 10, 11, and 12

Prerequisites: Successful completion of “Digital Imaging and Collage” or its equivalent.

Description: Students in this course will apply their previous experience with digital imaging toward more complex projects and software as they develop a portfolio of digital work. They will continue to create digital montages that demonstrate a good understanding of the software and of aesthetic concepts related to composition and idea development. The class will work primarily with Adobe PhotoShop, Morph, Infini-D and web design. Part of the class work will involve combining images to create moving digital collages. Emphasis will be placed on student creating proposals for their own work intended for high-resolution printing or web site content. Student will publish their work to CD as well as the web. Internship opportunities will also be explored

Evaluation: Evaluation will be based on class work, projects, written work, class participation and final portfolios.

C++ Programming I Semester – 2.50 Credits Course #730

For students in grades: 11 and 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: This course introduces students to one of the most powerful computer programming languages in the industry: C++. The course will address syntax and style, the use of identifiers and data types, control flow of a program, the use of functions and libraries, and will emphasize a structured approach to problem-solving.

Evaluation: Evaluation will be based on homework, quizzes, tests, and the completion of programming projects.

C++ Programming II Semester– 2.50 Credits Course #731

For students in grades: 11 and 12

Prerequisites: Completion of Course #730 or its equivalent.

Description: This course is a continuation of Introduction to C++ Programming I (Course #730). The main emphasis is on classes, objects, recursion, vectors, arrays, structs, and file I/O.

Evaluation: Evaluation will be based on homework, quizzes, tests, and the completion of programming projects.

Video Production Semester – 2.50 Credits Course #813

For students in grades: 10, 11, and 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: This course will introduce students t the basic techniques and aesthetic of video production. Students will learn how to use various formats of video equipment including VHS, Hi-8, and mini DV, and will plan, produce and complete short video productions. Using a hand-on approach, student will lean the skill involved in production planning, script preparation, shooting of a program, and post-production including non-linear editing, assembling music and voice-overs. Students will edit video primarily on Macintosh computers using Avid Cinema and Adobe Premiere. The class will explore the role of television and film in society as well as how to talk about and critique television and film from both a creative and technical point of view.

Evaluation: Evaluation will be based on class assignments, quizzes, exams and the quality of the final project.

Web Site Design & Publishing I Semester – 2.50 credits Course #742

For students in grades: 11 and 12

Prerequisites: None

Description: This course introduces students to a brief background of the Internet, terminology and basic design elements of an effective web page based on Robin Williams’ textbook “The Non-Designers Design Book. Students will be using the text “Macromedia Dreamweaver 4 Fireworks 4 Studio” as a guide to step through the creation of Web page design to create dynamic web graphics with attached behaviors that incorporate Java Scripting.

During their process of learning the Macromedia web-authoring tools, students will be utilizing their communication, organization, interpersonal and technical skills as well. Each student will be required to compose three critiques on web page design and to design a web page as part of an assigned project. All projects are subject to approval of the teacher. Successful completion of course material will be the following, the completion of three critiques, quizzes on reading materials assigned in class, and a practicum demonstrating the incorporation of proper web design principles that were covered in class and texts.

Evaluation: Evaluation will be based on classroom and the completion of writing assignment, quizzes and project.

Web Site Design & Publishing II Course #TBA

For students in grades: 11 and 12

Prerequisites: Web Design & Publishing I

Description: This course is intended for Web Design & Publishing I students who wish to expand their knowledge and skills in web page design and web site management. Students will have the opportunity to consult with faculty and staff at CCHS in the maintenance and creation of new web pages. Students are expected to work collaboratively in a team environment throughout the web design process. This entails each student to work collaboratively in a problem-solving mode with their fellow students, assigned CCHS staff members or outside agencies (clients) as well as with their teacher in a project-based learning environment. Students are expected to communicate effectively with each of the aforementioned groups in the analysis, design and delivery of a web based solution to a well defined and mutually agreed upon project. The number of projects assigned will be dependent upon such factors as the scope and complexity of each project, as well, as number of students assigned to each particular project. All project assignments will be determined through discussion with the teacher and students with regard to addressing a perceived need in the school or outside community. Student will be expected to utilize effective communication, organization, and planning and collaborative skills throughout the project cycle.

Evaluation: Students are expected to contribute in class discussions in a collegial manner that enhances the understanding of material, ideas and opinions that are expressed by fellow classmates and the teacher. Classroom participation is an integral component for students to successfully share, express and integrate new material in a meaningful way. Therefore, class participation will count for 30% of the total grade. Students are expected to demonstrate their learning of course content through quizzes/test and the completion of assigned web design projects. Students will be expected to utilize learned technical, communication on collaborative skills throughout the project cycle. Projects must meet the initial design criteria, demonstration of design principles covered in class, appearance, coding and effective utilization of Web page(s) resources.

Introduction to Windows 2000 and Application Semester – 2.50 Credits Course #745

For students in grades: 9, 10 11, and 12 (For first pilot years)

Prerequisites: None

Description: This course is designed to provide those students with limited computer experience an exposure to and facility with the Windows 2000 desktop and Office 2000 productivity applications. Students will learn how to navigate through taskbar and the Start Menu to launch applications and to also perform basic file and printer functions. The course will also provide an overview on the similarities and differences between the Windows 2000 and Macintosh X operating systems.

Evaluation: Evaluation will be based on participation, homework, assessments and hands-on computer projects.