Key Animation Techniques: Frame by frame, Keyframing/Tweening, Morphing, Use of Layers, Motion/Dynamics, Timing/Easing, Lip Synching, Visemes/Phonemes, Anthropomorphism, Layout Design, Character Development, Sprite Sheets
Key Principles: Disney's 12 principles of Animation
Types of Animation: Cut-out, Stop-Frame/Stop-Motion, Cel, Drawn, Rotoscoping, Digital, Hybird/Mixed Media, Sprite Sheets
Media Production Processes: Conceptualisation, Scriptwriting, Storyboarding, Sets and Backgrounds, Shot classification/Framing techniques (film grammar), Character Development, Audio Synchronisation, Animatic Creation, Synopsis Writing
Animation Practice: History of Animation and Contemporary Animation
Range of purposes : Film, TV, Web, Advertising, Educational/Informative, Interactive, Conceptual, Games
On completion of this module, students should be able to:
1. Describe and apply key principles and an industry standard range of techniques used in 2D animation.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of animation history, animation types and production processes.
3. Design and plan a unique short animated sequence.
4. Evaluate examples of animation practice for a range of purposes and audiences.
5. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of current developments in 2D applications.
6. Demonstrate an ability to creatively problem solve design issues related to asset production.
7. Demonstrate a critical awareness and reflect on own work.
The University 'Strategy for Learning' documentation has informed the learning and teaching strategy for this module. The module material will be introduced through lectures, while practical exercises will be offered to students for sessions in digital design studios equipped with industry standard software. Seminars will be used to review students' work in group and peer feedback sessions and help clarify and elaborate on both the lecture material and the practical exercises.
Full use will be made of GCU Learn to provide lecture-based and related study materials, along with sample solutions of practical exercises, thus encouraging the development of independent learning and allowing self-reflective feedback on student performance. Staff-based feedback on student performance for submitted work will be provided in line with the University feedback policy, with summative feedback and grades on the coursework assessment utilising GCU Learn. The additional interactive discussion features of GCU Learn may be utilised, as appropriate to the module, to stimulate independent and flexible student learning outwith scheduled class time.
Practice based exercises in digital media studios will include group interaction and individual practice in animation production techniques. In the studio environment, students will be expected to meet interim deadlines for design and planning and share their digital practice with peers. Individual independent study, practice, and directed learning will be utilised. Formative tasks, tutor/peer critiques are integrated into the learning process.
Lectures require A/V projection equipment for PC, DVD, video display and internet access.
Specialist knowledge and application
Critical thinking and problem solving
Critical analysis
Communication skills, written, oral and listening
Effective information retrieval and research skills
Computer literacy
Self confidence, self discipline & self reliance (independent working)
Awareness of strengths and weaknesses
Creativity, innovation & independent thinking
Able to prioritise tasks and time management
Presentation Skills
