FAQ for prospective students in MART 210 (Digital Media Fundamentals)
- When and where does it meet?
- Here is a link to the USC Master Schedule. All up to date info is there.
- What experience in should I have if I want to take it?
- Basic computer skills are necessary, but if you are unfamiliar with using a computer, or you've never used the Macintosh computers, there will be opportunities to gain proficiency.
- What are the prerequisites for MART 210?
- The listed prerequisiste for this class is MART 110.
- I haven't had the prereq course. Can I take it anyway?
- The registration system at USC does allow people to sign up for classes that they are not prepared for. This can be a problem. I will not remove students from the class if they have registered. However, I am teaching the class with the assumption that you have had those classes. You are responsible for the background information.
- The class is full. Will you override me into the class?
- No. The course will fill to the limits of the fire code.
- I'm not a MART major or minor. Can I take it anyway?
- Sure!
- What sorts of projects will there be?
- There will be projects in graphics, web design, video, photo retouching, and more.
- OK, but what software will I learn?
- I don't like to answer that question because it fosters the impression that the class is about learning software rather than art, design and project management.
- Seriously, what software.
- *sigh*... you'll be using Photoshop, Illustrator, Dreamweaver, Final Cut Pro, and several other apps.
- Does the class use Macs or Windows?
- The university has licenses for many applications on Mac and Windows. The main labs that you have access to (with the most powerful computers) are Mac labs. I teach on the Macs, but I use Windows (and Linux) myself. Really, it doesn't matter and no one cares. Professionally, you'll need facility in both.
- Do I have to buy software?
- No. We have everything you need in the labs.
- I want to use my own computer, do I HAVE to use the lab ?
- No, you can use your own. Many of the projects can be completed using free open source software, or fully functional demos. Understand, however that even if something goes wrong with your computer, you are still resposible for the work getting done.
- Can I get a jump start on things?
- Sure. The textbook for the class is The Computer in the Digital Arts by Spalter.
- Also, if you want to get a jump on the technical details of the software, you can watch the video demos.
- Anything else I should know ?
- My attendance policy is brutal.
- DO NOT skip the first class. It is not a blow off, and you will miss material that you will be responsible for.
- If you don't have a notetaking system that is working for you, consider this one.
Please feel free to email me at the address below should you have more questions!