Allen Harrison || Teaching Portfolio

Flash : Advanced Typography and Animation || Tues./Thurs. 6:05-8:55 || University of Akron

Course Objective : This course will introduce the fundamental aspects of the process of designing for a range of media, incorporating a balance of problem solving/conceptual abilities with technical/computer software skills. The underlying goal of the course is to conceptualize, develop and implement innovative communication experiences (sequential and interactive) for a range of pragmatic applications for the web, static media and traditional media. A critical aspect is to apply previously learned design skills (concepts, structure, typography, two-dimensional design principles) to a time based and interactive formats. Practice in visual processes and presentation methods are to be emphasized. Current Course Website Class Examples Student Evaluations

Brands & Branding || Mon./Wed. 6-9 || University of Akron

Course Objective : Students will explore the idea of brands and brand process and integrate the experience into creative and functional design solutions. Each student will gain a new level of understanding and appreciation of how design and communication can not only deliver, but help define a company’s (product/service) message. The class will investigate the brand position process, strategic thinking, brand case studies, integrated brand/image communications, product launches, and how to apply this information to individual and collaborative design projects that communicate a comprehensive brand experience. Current Course Website Class Examples Student Evaluations

Advanced Graphic Design || Tues./Thurs. 1-3:30 || University of Akron

Course Objective : "Low Tech to High Tech" Students create a movie poster, campaign, and title/trailor sequence for a film drawn from a list of contemporary and classic independent cinema. The goal is to communicate the ambience, mood, concepts, and emotions of the film through its graphic representation. The poster should tell the audience something about the film. No headshots, no star names, no Saul Bass rip-offs. Complexity, multiple narratives, suitability, and controlled hierarchy are among the major issues discussed. Students present: general research, verbal ideas, 20 different ideas, 25 formal sketches, three final posters (one version two color screen print) , and two applications. Students create a title/trailor sequence of at least sixty seconds in the same visual style as their posters. An emphasis is placed on typography in motion, as well as image-based footage. Students present: Written ideas and sketches, storyboards, key frames, animation/footage tests, rough edit, final edit. Current Course Website Class Examples Student Evaluations

Production 2 || Tues./Thurs. 9-11:30 & 1-3:30 || University of Akron

Course Objective : The student will learn practical knowledge in print production. Projects include layouts and electronic pre-press files for 1-color, 2-color, and 4-color printed pieces. Terminology and technical processes for illustration, photography, die cuts, folding, Pantone Matching System(PMS) and paper specifications are taught along with other pertinent information. Electronic pre-press methods are used to create advanced digital layouts in industry standard software. Current Course Website Class Examples Student Evaluations

Interactive Media 2 || MICA

Course Objective : Design will focus on concepts actualized through multiple technologies including embedded video, visual special effects, chat room interfaces and web cam broadcasting. The class will cover web typologies such as e-commerce, education, entertainment, games, information, and design portfolios. Students will further their knowledge of: interaction design; interface design; animated and transitional design; and print vs. screen based design. They will develop user experience through analysis of interaction methods, audience, and appropriate languages such as actionscript, javascript, and XML. Conceptual thinking and the integration of image, sound, typography, databases and interactive communication will be explored throughout the course, Core software will include Flash MX 2004 with the Flash MX Communication Server. The class will be introduced to server side applications including MySQL, PHP, ASP, and ColdFusion. This course is organized around design practice and professionalism and includes site design for local non-profit organizations. Course Syllabus Class Examples

Underground Web Publishing || MICA

Course Objective : Tired of pretentious uninspiring content on the web? This course enables the student to become author, art director and editor of their own on-line publication. Issues of format, identity, audience and content development are addessed as students build their publication. An emphasis on critical and creative thinking will be complimented with tailored production lectures for individual projects. Guest lecturers and various forms of underground culture and media will also be incorporated. The class will conclude with each student having produced a fully functioning web site featuring original and/or curated content. Course Syllabus Class Examples