Class schedule :: DMA 408 : Capstone :: Fall, 2009
About the Schedule
The Week column indicates what week the class is in.
The Date column contains the day and date of the class.
The Class Description column describes what we will do during that class. Classes are categorized as follows:
- Demo/lecture will usually feature a demonstration of the technical processes required to complete the weekly exercise. Often, step by step instructions are listed to assist in the completion of a task. It is highly recommended that a "dry run" of the exercise be completed prior to attending Demo/lecture classes. Assignment descriptions are typically written out here or provided via a link.
- Quiz/Exam will follow selected readings and lectures. All quizzes will be conducted on Angel.
- Critique will be held on work due dates. The first 10 or so students to hand in their assignments will receive critiques, so get your work in early.
- Lab work will be time for you to work on assignments, and have assistance from your classmates or me. There will often be lab work time after discussions.
The Work Due column shows what assignment(s) are due that class.
The Reading Due column contains links or chapter/page numbers for readings, videos, and tutorials to complete for that class.
Lab work Projects and exercises are due on their "Work due" date BEFORE the class begins, so that they may be discussed and critiqued.
Schedule subject to change-Check this page frequently for updates!
| Week | Date | Class Description | Work Due | Reading Due |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tue, Aug 25 | Intro/lab dynamics;
Lecture and Demo: Capstone projectTitleCapstone projectGoalYour project should reflect a specialization in your area of DMA that has held the most interest for you, and the one in which you would be most happy working.DescriptionYour project should reflect a specialization in your area of DMA that has held the most interest for you, and the one in which you would be most happy working.DirectionsPresent your project to the class. Turn in an electronic version of your project to my Chupacabra drop-box. Post a link to your project on your website for the project. Discuss the ways in which you improved/developed your project.DueDraft (worth 25%): Thu, Oct 08Final (worth 75%): Thu, Dec 10 |
Submit proposal if not already submitted | None |
| 2 |
Lecture and Demo: Mock InterviewTitleResume, cover letter, and mock-interviewGoalTo build a well-formed, well-designed, and targeted materials for pursuing a position at a relevant employment location.DescriptionA convincing resume is crucial part of your job search. Your potential employers will be scrutinizing your resume for evidence that you will be able to perform the duties assigned to you. The goal of this project is therefore to get feedback on your work from a professional; someone who might interview for an actual job.DirectionsDesign your resume using inDesign (exported to pdf) or xhtml/css. WORD WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Write a cover letter that families with your resume and send it to a potential employer in your area of career interest. In the letter, introduce yourself, describe your skills, and explain that you'd like to arrange a mock/informational interview as a requirement for your class. Print out both documents on LOW-quality inkjet or laser paper and turn in both electronic and printed copies. After critique, make any adjustments to your letter and resume. Print out both documents on HIGH-quality inkjet or laser paper and turn in both electronic and printed copies. Schedule your mock interview for late in the semester, so that you have time to organize your portfolio for presenting to your interviewer. Your interviewer must complete the form at (click here for form).DueFirst draft:Thu, Sep 10, final:Thu, Sep 17 |
None | None | |
| 3 | Lab work | None | Resume and cover letter, first draft | |
| 4 |
Lecture and Demo: Research paper, presentation, or contestGoalTo investigate current job trends and opportunities in the Digital Media field, or to get feedback from wider community for a design piece.DescriptionYou have several options for this project. You have three choices:
DirectionsPaper: Complete a paper or presentation that investigates the current job outlook for a career you are interested in. Include average salary, number of positions, average acceptance rate and any other relevant statistics. Include a missive on how you perceive your chances for success in this career area. Statistics may be presented on a local or national scale. 3-5 pages, double-spaced.Screen-presentation: Website, powerpoint, keynote, etc. with key info supported by graphics and links. Contest: Entering contests will help you get an objective idea about how the design-world rates your work. At best, this will either be a wake-up call or an ego-boost. Find a relevant contest for student work and submit a DMA assigment. Do this as soon as possible during the semester and document your submission and the outcome of the project. Contents with winning announcements after the end of the semester will not be accepted. Due |
None | Resume and cover letter, final draft | |
| 5 | Lab work | None | None | |
| 6 | Lab work | None | Research Paper/Presentation/Contest | |
| 7 | Capstone Critique (For Friday section) | Capstone review | Capstone project | |
| 8 | Capstone Critique (For Monday section) |
Lecture and Demo: PortfolioGoalTo organize the best work into a compelling portfolio.DescriptionYour portfolio is the single most important element in your quest for DMA employment. Preparing one that is well organized and stands out is critical. Therefore, we will spend half of the class honing the best projects and exercises and organizing them into a portfolio, which may take on one or more formats.DirectionsCompose a plan for your portfolio development. Indicate the format for your portfolio, a list of each piece, and a statement about the goals of your portfolio, including focus of your work and target audience. Organize your work into a folder containing the top 20 or so pieces you have done. Discuss this work with me and the class. Bring in your final portfolio on the due date. Be prepared to present it to the class. A digital portfolio must be turned in to my drop box.DueFinals week |
None | None |
| 9 |
Professional Practices Guest Lecturer |
None | None | |
| 10 | Lab work | None | None | |
| 11 | Lab Work | None | None | |
| 12 | Lab work | None | None | |
| 13 | Lab work | None | None | |
| 14 | Lab work | None | None | |
| 15 | Lab work | None | None | |
| 16 | Finals Week | Portfolio, Capstone Project Final Version |