Course Description

Introduction to Animation (ANIM 101) is a foundational course that introduces students to the captivating world of animation. This course provides a comprehensive overview of animation principles, techniques, and tools. Students will delve into both traditional and digital animation methods, gaining a solid understanding of how to bring characters and stories to life through motion.

Outline of Major Content Areas

1. Animation Fundamentals: Understanding the core principles of animation, including squash and stretch, anticipation, and exaggeration.
2. Traditional Animation: Exploring the art of hand-drawn animation, learning about keyframes, in-betweening, and the animation process.
3. Digital Animation: Introduction to digital animation software and techniques, including character rigging, timeline animation, and digital puppetry.
4. Storyboarding: Learning the importance of storyboards in animation, including shot composition, framing, and storytelling through visuals.
5. Character Animation: Focusing on character design, movement, and personality development in animation.
6. Motion Graphics: Exploring animation beyond characters, including typography animation, logo animation, and kinetic typography.
7. Animation History: Studying the history of animation, from its earliest forms to contemporary trends and technologies.

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of Introduction to Animation (ANIM 101), students will:

1. Animation Principles: Understand and apply core animation principles to create compelling motion sequences.
2. Traditional Animation: Have hands-on experience with traditional animation techniques, producing short animations.
3. Digital Animation: Be proficient in using digital animation software to create animated content.
4. Storyboarding Skills: Create storyboards for animation projects, effectively communicating visual narratives.
5. Character Animation: Develop skills in character design and animation, imbuing characters with personality and expression.
6. Motion Graphics: Create motion graphics and animated typography for various applications.
7. Animation History Knowledge: Demonstrate knowledge of the history and evolution of animation as an art form.

Methods for Assessing Student Learning

Assessment in Introduction to Animation (ANIM 101) involves a range of practical assignments, creative projects, and knowledge assessments. These assessments include:

1. Animation Projects: Evaluation of animation projects, assessing animation principles, storytelling, and technical execution.
2. Traditional Animation Exercises: Assessment of hand-drawn animation exercises, considering fundamental animation skills.
3. Digital Animation Assignments: Evaluation of digital animation assignments, reviewing software proficiency and creative application.
4. Storyboard Creation: Assessment of storyboards created by students for animated sequences.
5. Character Animation Portfolio: Review of character animation work, assessing character design, movement, and personality.
6. Motion Graphics Projects: Evaluation of motion graphics projects, including typography animation and logo animation.
7. Knowledge Assessments: Quizzes and examinations covering animation history and theory.

Introduction to Animation (ANIM 101) provides students with a solid foundation in the art and techniques of animation, equipping them with essential skills and knowledge to excel in this dynamic field. Through a balance of theory and practical application, students embark on their animation journey.