Setting the Course Aims and Learning Outcomes

The next step in designing the “Advanced Modelling and Character Animation” was to formulate the aims and learning outcomes of the course. The aims we formulated give a general idea of what the learning outcomes will show in more detail.

Learning outcomes are statements that specify what learners will know or be able to do as a result of a learning activity. They represent one of the essential building blocks for transparent higher education systems and “can provide one of the most direct indicators of the intended level and depth of any programme of learning” (Race, 2006, p32).

When designing the course learning outcomes we took in consideration the content, level and standard of the course. The outcomes reflect the course focus as designing and producing 3D animations techniques. This is a level 3 course, and the level is reflected by greater emphasis on more complex skills such as comparison of modelling methods and evaluation of the use of 3D animation techniques using story telling. The learning outcomes are expressed in terms of what is required from the students to pass the course .

The learning outcomes are built on the outcomes of previous levels, which are the pre-requisites of the course. The course is designed as a follow up of the level 2 course “3D Animation” (COMP1289).

Reference

Race, P. (2006) Course Design and Evaluation – Study Text, University of Greenwich

Course Aims

This unit is designed to develop students’ modelling and animation skills. The student will use advanced techniques, used in industry, to develop character modelling and animation skills.

· To provide an advanced / comprehensive understanding of NURBS (non-uniform, rational B-spline) modelling.

· To develop the students’ use of modelling techniques related to character development and design.

· Produce and apply life-like quality materials to models

· To examine and discuss current trends in the animation industries.

· To provide the students with advanced modelling and animation skills.

· Demonstrate the use of animation in storytelling.

Course Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

A. Critically compare a variety of modelling methods (NURBS, Spline, Poly).

B. Show the use of pre-production methods to create storyboards, treatments, detailed references and sketchbooks and design characters.

C. Use a 3D Animation program to produce high quality and detailed characters.

D. Critically evaluate the use of 3D animation techniques using story telling.

E. Use a scripting language and expressions to control an element of character animation.

F. Demonstrate and implement a ‘render farm’