PLNL310
Plain Graphics and Design
The accessibility of design and publishing software has brought layout tools to anyone with a computer. When done thoughtfully, graphics and design can add considerable impact and insight to written communications. However, the desire to decorate or create flashy designs can overshadow the main objective of plain language communication, which is to convey a message clearly.
Regardless of the type of publication (book, website, report, announcement, etc.), a professional layout is now expected in today鈥檚 marketplace. Through this course, you will be able to recognize the components of effective design and the visual elements that are essential to reach your audience. You will also describe the constraints involved in design projects through case studies and discussions.
Overview
Location: Online
Format: Self-paced within deadlines set by instructor
Duration: 5 weeks
Tuition: $555
Can be applied to:
Plain Language Certificate
Upcoming Offerings
Register for a course at any time, with the option to apply to a program later.
- Tue, Feb 25 (self-paced all week)
- Tue, Mar 4 (self-paced all week)
- Tue, Mar 11 (self-paced all week)
- Tue, Mar 18 (self-paced all week)
- Tue, Mar 25 (self-paced all week)
- Tue, Sep 16 (self-paced all week)
- Tue, Sep 23 (self-paced all week)
- Tue, Sep 30 (self-paced all week)
- Tue, Oct 7 (self-paced all week)
- Tue, Oct 14 (self-paced all week)
What you will learn
After completing this course, you鈥檒l be able to do the following:
- Describe graphic design principles that affect readability and legibility
- Classify effective and ineffective examples of graphic design
- Describe the role of a design brief in a design project
- Specify criteria for choosing appropriate typography and imagery to support a clean, accessible design
How you will learn and be evaluated
Prepare to spend 6-10 hours per week on coursework, including:
- Readings
- Assignments
- Online discussions
You will be evaluated on:
- Assignments
- Participation in discussions
Learning Materials
No textbook is required. We will provide all course materials online.
Recommended reading:
Williams, R. The Non-designer鈥檚 Design Book, 4th Edition. Peachpit Press, 2014. ISBN 978-0133966152. Also available as e-book.
Technical Requirements
For online courses, you will need a computer with audio and microphone that is connected to the internet. Canvas is the online system that will be used for the course. For more information and online support, visit Online Learning.
To get the most from this course, you should be comfortable with:
- Sharing documents ( / )
- Creating screenshots ( / )
English Language Requirements
To succeed in this course, you will need an advanced level of written and spoken English. If you are unsure whether your English language skills are sufficient, we recommend you complete the (IELTS) with the following minimums:
- Overall band score minimum 6.5
- No band below 6.0
- Writing band score minimum 8.0
Please note we can鈥檛 refund your registration fees after the course start date if you find your English language skills are not adequate.
If you have questions or concerns about your English language proficiency, we encourage you to contact your local .