SCOM8012 Design and Process for the World Wide Web

Offered By	Centre for Public Awareness of Science
Academic Career	Graduate Coursework
Course Subject	Scientific Communication
Offered in	First Semester, 2010 and First Semester, 2011
Unit Value	6 units
Course Description	Throughout this course, students will develop an understanding of best practice principles with regard to visual communication methods and media. Through a series of theory sessions and hands- on tutorials students will develop basic skills in visual design using industry standard tools and software. Students will also gain a sound understanding of the information needed to effectively communicate with professional suppliers of services within the graphic design industry, including web and print designers, and commercial printers.
Learning Outcomes	On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will be able to develop or coordinate the development of an integrated visual communications package by acquiring the knowledge and skills to: 1. Critically analyse the effectiveness or otherwise of existing (primarily science communication) web sites in terms of interface design, audience engagement and information architecture. 2. Critically analyse the effectiveness or otherwise of existing (primarily science communication) print-based communications materials in terms of interface design, audience engagement and information architecture. 3. Determine the most appropriate method of delivery of information by analysing the nature of the content, the expected audience(s) and the desired outcomes. 4. In keeping with best practice principles, design and develop a functional and effective science communication web site prototype. 5. Following current graphic design theory and trends, design and develop print-based communications material visually and structurally linked to the above web site. 6. Effectively communicate with relevant graphic design, web and print industry professionals. 7. Understand the advantages and limitations of current technologies underpinning the graphic design, web and print industries as vehicles for effective communications strategies.
Indicative Assessment	Assessment will comprise: Written Project proposal (5%) outlining the nature and scope of the communications package to be developed by the student, paying particular attention to the needs of, and desired outcomes for the target audience (LO 3,7) Web site graphical user interface (20%) - using appropriate technology and software and interface graphics principles, design three interface concepts for the proposed site (LO 1,3,4,6,7) Print concepts (20%) - using appropriate technology and software and print graphics principles, design three layout concepts for the two print-based project components to support and reflect the proposed site (LO 2,3,5,6,7) Targeting to specified audience(s) (10%) - how effective is the targeting of the overall communications package in terms of site content and structure, and the graphical approach of the web site and print components. (LO 1,2,3,4,5) Demonstrated use and understanding of techniques and procedures (20%) - within the entire communications package (LO 3,4,5,6,7) Web site text content (10%) - demonstrating the understanding of the differences in approach needed when creating written content for a web site, as opposed to a printed product (LO 1,3,4,7) 90 contact hours; approx 30-40 hours outside contact time expected
Course Classification(s)	AdvancedAdvanced courses are designed for students having reached 'first degree' level of assumed knowledge, which provide a deep understanding of contemporary issues; or 'second degree' and higher levels of knowledge; or for transition to research training programs.
Areas of Interest	Science Communication
Eligibility	Bachelor degree; general science knowledge.
Academic Contact	Simon Yates

The information published on the Study at ANU 2010 website applies to the 2010 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2009 website.