Course Syllabus

 LinkIntroduction Video

INSTRUCTOR 
Jacquelyn Fowler
Art Teacher
Email: fowlerj@centergrove.k12.in.us

The fastest way to communicate with me is through Canvas messages. During the day, I'll be able to typically respond within a few hours and at most 24 hours. After 9:00 p.m., I will respond to your email the following day.

COURSE OVERVIEW & DESCRIPTION

The emphasis of Visual Communications is creative problem solving using visuals. PhotoShop software is the tool students will use to create art. In the beginning, students are taught the foundations of good design by learning and effectively utilizing the element sand principles of design. The remainder of the course focuses on graphic design and

creation of art for commercial purposes. Projects such as logos, CD

covers and poster designs are explored.

• No prerequisites necessary
• Recommended grade level: 9-12. 
• Counts as a Directed Elective or Elective for the General, Core 40, Core 40 with Academic Honors and Core 40 with Technical Honors diplomas

REQUIRED INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS
All readings and instructional materials will be provided in Canvas.

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
Students must have access to a reliable computer with high-speed internet access.  Photoshop will be used to make our projects.  There are 2 main ways to access Photoshop.  The first way is to use school VMware which is a school virtual desktop.   For directions to access VMware-follow along with these directions found on the school webpage.  Once Vmware is loaded here are directions to log in.  Log into Art.

The second way to access Photoshop is using Adobe Cloud.  The first 30 days are free and then you can purchase one more month.

PARTICIPATION EXPECTATIONS
Visual Communications is a 2-credit, completely online course. There are no required face-to-face sessions, but students will be required to log-in at least four times/week.  Students will spend approximately 8-10 hours per week completing the required tasks. Many of the course projects require a fair amount of time to create and revise.  Please plan ahead and allocate the time needed for such projects.

Students are expected to complete all assignments by 11:00 p.m. on the scheduled due dates. Failure to do so will result in a 10% deduction per day. Assignments will no longer be accepted after 4 days unless previous arrangement have been made prior to the due date.  In the event of unforeseen circumstances, students are to communicate with their instructor as soon as possible to make necessary accommodations.

 Students who are planning to travel or be away from wi-fi access for more than 3 days should communicate with me in advance to make arrangements.  I suggest working in advance and not trying to catch up upon return.

HELP-SEEKING STRATEGIES
Please be proactive and seek help whenever possible. The online environment is full of helpful people and resources.  If you are having a problem, reach out to those around you who might be able to help. Consider the following:

• Discussions. I have created a discussion in Canvas dedicated to questions and ongoing support. For questions regarding assignments, please post your questions here. Chances are, your question will help other students in the class. You are encouraged to also respond to your classmates if you think you can help.
• Instructor Support. You can contact me anytime using the Canvas mail. This is located in the upper right corner, called “inbox.” I will respond to your emails within 24 hours. You can also use the “help” resource, and select “ask your instructor a question.”
• Technical Support. If you are having issues with Canvas, you may use the “help” link to search the Canvas guides, or report a problem. As a rule of thumb, try using a different internet browser or reboot your device. For technical support related to your hardware, please notify your teacher and he/she will file a help ticket with the Center Grove Technology Department.
• Online Support. If you have a question regarding Center Grove Global Campus in general, please contact the eLearning Coordinator.

DISABILITY SERVICES FOR STUDENTS
If you have special needs that may require modification of instruction or assessment, please make sure a copy of your IEP is on file. You may contact Kathy Stricker, Director of Special Needs at strickerk@centergrove.k12.in.us, so that we can determine how to make necessary accommodations to best support your learning needs.  

PLAGIARISM
It is expected that students will not cheat, plagiarize, or engage in any other form of academic dishonesty.  If a student is discovered doing any of these acts, that student will be subject to consequences determined by Center Grove Administrators, which could include possibly receiving an “F” in the course or dismissal from the Global Campus program entirely.

GRADING SCALE
Grades and assignment feedback will be posted within 48-72 hours of submission pending an on-time submission. In some circumstances, you may be permitted to resubmit your work for a higher grade  The letter grade scale that will accompany your grade will be the grading scale that Center Grove High School has deemed the grading scale for all 9-12 courses, and is as follows: 

OVERVIEW OF ASSIGNMENTS