Introduction

Images constitute an important form of expression in our times. Visual skills are important in a society where images have a great impact on us. Depending on the cultural context attitudes concerning images have changed over time. Most of the visual images we are exposed to on a daily basis are in digital form or have been through a digitisation process. The content of the new curriculum, Knowledge Promotion, describes digital literacy as a basic skill. The studies described below will provide a higher level of expertise in the areas of digital and visual skills.

On the basis of the challenges within the field of visual communication, which is one of four main areas of the curriculum, Knowledge Promotion, for the subject arts and crafts, Telemark University College / Notodden campus offers the study programme Digital Media Design as a one-year programme divided into four course units. In addition to studying the four course units which represent 60 ECTS credits, students may also sign up for individual course units (15 ECTS per course unit).

Target Group and Admission Requirements

The study programme is based on the main subject area Visual Communication in the national curriculum for arts and crafts, which describes digital literacy as a basic skill. Although teachers are a key target group for the study programme, others are also welcome to apply.
Students must meet general admission requirements.

It is also possible to apply for admission on the basis of prior experiential learning.
It is assumed that students:
- Have a PC with access to the Internet
- Have a PC with a microphone and speakers
- Are able to use the Internet and e-mail
- Are able to use Word, or similar programmes
- Have access to a digital camera
- Have access to a webcam

Aim of the Programme

On completing the study programme students will:

• Develop proficiency in the use of information technology within the subject area
• Develop aesthetic and visual communication skills
• Acquire insight into the current hardware and software used in relation to carrying out tasks within arts activities
• Develop a critical and evaluative attitude to ICT
• Acquire basic understanding, skills and knowledge in the use of technology in visual creative work

Curriculum and structure

Code Course title Credits O/V *) Credits pr. semester   S1(A) S2(V) 15DIGBIL Digital Image Editing 15.00 O 15   15DIGGRAF Digital Graphic Design 15.00 O 15   15DIVIAN Digital Video and Animation 15.00 O   15 Total: 30 30 *) O - Mandatory course, V - Optional course

The study programme consists of the following course units:
1. Digital Image Editing (15 ECTS)
2. Digital Graphic Design (15 ECTS)
3. Web and Information Design (15 ECTS)
4. Digital Video and Animation (15 ECTS)
The course units are 15 ECTS credits each, and are organised as an online programme in conjunction with workshops. Each course unit constitutes approximately 380 study-hours; of the 380 hours, 80 hours will consist of workshops, lectures and supervision.

Teaching and Learning Methods

The studies are organised as online learning with workshops. This will include web-based and video-conferenced teaching and supervision. Teachers and students will be able to post images, answers and other documents as well as links to other Internet addresses. Students will receive training in the use of the learning platform.
Communication between student and the university college is done via the Internet. Students must have access to a computer with word-processing software, e-mail and Internet, and to specific programmes for each of the course units.

Theory and Practical Training

The study programme consists of 4 course units. Teaching, lectures or lecture notes will be given for each of the course units. The study programme includes programme requirements with regard to participation and assignments that must be submitted for each course unit. Three assignments must be completed individually, and two are group assignments. Assignments will be sent to the subject teacher for approval / comment in line with scheduled deadlines. Students are encouraged to form groups; the university college will assist the students in this process.

The study programme is characterised by the interaction between practical creative work, theoretical orientation and reflection.

Assessment Methods

Continuous informal supervision and evaluation will constitute both a part of the learning process and a means for the student to gain greater insight into their own academic requirements for further studies and future professional roles.
All the course units that form part of the study programme must be passed before students may receive a diploma.
The examination consists of an individual project with a grade that is recorded on the diploma. The final grade will be on a scale from A to F, where A is the highest possible grade, and E is the lowest passing grade.
Grades will be determined according to Telemark University College’s Examination Regulations.

Minor adjustments may occur during the academic year, subject to the decision of the Dean