CawdV3.1

Computer Animation and Webpage Design

1st Year Course of Study

1st Semester:

3D Graphics:

  • Modeling
  • Lighting
  • Texturing
  • Animation
  • Character Creation

Video Editing:

  • Creating narratives using 3D content, as well as video footage with sound effects. This will incorporate both video and audio editing software.

2D Design:

  • Basics of image manipulation software
  • Using Photoshop and Illustrator to create textures, terrain maps, and other work specifically for use in 3D projects
  • Use of Photoshop and Illustrator to create stand alone artwork, as illustrations, photo projects, etc
  • Traditional hand sketches, including but not limited to still life’s, concept art, and storyboards

Midterm Exam:

Midterms in Computer Animation and Web Page Design will consist of 5 days of projects. 4 days will concentrate on 3D specific project(s). The 5th day will concentrate on 2D design skills, both hand created and on the computer.

2nd Semester:

Web Design:

  • XHTML
  • CSS
  • Flash
  • Actionscript
  • Intro to Javascript
  • Intro to php

2D Design:

  • Exploring past, current, and future trends and best practices of web design.
  • Web Graphics and optimization
  • Site Layouts
  • Continued work with hand drawn art creating logos, layouts, and related topics

Final Exam:

  • Online Portfolio featuring your best work; not limited to CAWD work.  Include other abilities such as creative writing, song witting, traditional artwork, etc.

Dual Enrollment Opportunities:

During the 2nd semester students with appropriate Accuplacer scores will have the opportunity to “dual enroll” in the Vermont State College System as well as CTE. During this time you may earn college credit for your time in CAWD, specifically the courses “Web Development” and “Introduction to Flash Animation“. Students must meet minimum requirements in program grade and Accuplacer test results to be eligible, in addition to recommendation from the instructor.

Certification Opportunities:

At the end of our XHTML/CSS component, students who we feel are ready may take the World Organization of Webmaster Certification Exam. This exam is run by an internationally recognized organization know for their work on internet technologies and standards. Last year we had 18 of the 20 students who took the exam earn a certification, a success we are very proud of.

SkillsUSA:

Early in the 2nd semester, CAWD students will participate in a the SkillsUSA competitions. On the state level, these competitions are between the different technical schools around Vermont. The gold medal winners of each competition represent the state of Vermont at the national level in Kansas City, Missouri.  Last year we took Gold and Silver in Web Design, Gold and Bronze in Pin Design, and Gold in Quiz Bowl at the Vermont Championships. At the national championships, TJ (current CAWD2 student) earned 2nd place in the nation for his SkillsUSA Vermont Pin Design. Brandon and Chris (former CAWD2 students, current college Freshmen) won 3rd place in the nation in Web Design – each winning $10,000 for college!.  Getting to the podium for two events when competing with the best students from across the country was a great accomplishment, and we are very proud of what our students have, and continue to accomplish.