Digital Graphics

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 1
Unit No:
L/618/3643
Credits:
6
Guided learning hours:
48 hours

Aim

In this unit learners will develop an understanding of the different types of digital graphics and how they are used. They will generate ideas in response to client requirements and learn how to use tools and techniques to manipulate and create digital graphics for different purposes.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1

Understand digital graphics.

  • Purpose: learners should investigate a range of digital graphics in both print and electronic format e.g. magazine covers, adverts, posters, cartoons, web images and graphics logos, signs, posters, packaging, web graphics, engineering drawings, manuals, imagery in movies and computer game etc and how they are used to communicate, invoke emotion, educate, advertise, promote, inform, entertain different audiences (e.g. age, gender, interest, need) etc.
  • Features: bitmap image (photograph), or vector graphic text (logo), composition, use of colour and texture, size and position, characters and objects, file type and sizes, resolution.
  • Bitmap or (raster): images are stored as a series of tiny dots called pixels, depict lifelike images, larger file sizes, enlargement can reduce quality (pixelated/blocky).
  • Vector: consists of shapes, curves, lines, and text, used for abstract art such as logos, more scalable, smaller file sizes.
  • File formats, e.g. jpeg, bmp, png, eps, wmf, pdf, proprietary formats, file compression (lossy and lossless), screen and print resolutions, storing and retrieving files, e.g. saving, import and export to other formats, file size considerations.
  • Properties of images sourced from digital cameras, scanners, internet and photo libraries, to include pixel dimensions, resolutions and suitability for use in creating graphics.
  • Properties of bitmap/raster images and vector based graphics, the use of colour, composition and layout.

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1

    Describe how digital graphics are used for different purposes.

  • 1.2

    Identify digital graphics file formats and their uses.

  • 1.3

    Describe how purpose and audience influence the design and layout of digital graphics.

2

Be able to plan digital graphics to meet client requirements.

AC 2.1:

  • It is recommended that the client brief requires learners to produce several digital graphics to allow them to think about the creative aspects of the graphics (typography, colour and composition) in relation to purpose, use, audience, etc.
  • Consideration of the purpose of the digital graphics learners will create by reviewing client brief when creating a design, the context in which the product will be used, target audience, what it is marketing or selling, what is the message to be communicated, style and tone of product delivery, e.g. humorous, formal, classic, youthful.
  • Develop ideas for how the digital graphics will be used, for example, 2D digital publishing graphics, e.g. emagazines, DVD covers, promotional materials, moving image – motion graphics, e.g. title sequences for films, television, websites, e.g. educational, corporate, entertainment, digital 2D game, e.g. titles sequences, interface design for PC, handheld, consoles or mobile gaming.

AC 2.2:

  • Obtain appropriate ready-made assets with consideration of file format, and identify and record sources.

AC 2.3:

  • Understanding copyright and intellectual property law in relation to creative works, obtaining permission, acknowledging sources/referencing.

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1

    Generate design ideas.

  • 2.2

    Obtain assets for use in digital graphics.

  • 2.3

    Identify legal issues that need to be considered when creating digital graphics.

3

Be able to create digital graphics.

  • Digital tools and manipulation techniques: cropping, rotating, brightness/contrast, levels, colour adjustment, cloning, retouching, red eye removal, apply effects, filters, selections, use of layers, text, rendering, shadows, proportion, texture use, picking stock images, combining and merging multiple images, colour blending, extracting parts of images and combining, changing background colours.
  • Appropriate file format: for print, screen or web, e.g. bmp, png, gif, tif, jpg, psd, ai, swf, flv.

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1

    Create digital graphics using a range of assets, tools and manipulation techniques.

  • 3.2

    Save digital graphics in appropriate file format.

4

Be able to review digital graphics. 

  • Learners should review the digital graphics against the client brief on the quality of finished product and its fitness for purpose, the review should identify positives and negatives relating to the digital graphics, rather than the creation process.
  • Learner should include reflections on the digital graphics (strengths and areas for development), taking into account user feedback, own self-assessment, feedback from others (peers, tutors).

Assessment Criteria

  • 4.1

    Review how well the digital graphics meet client requirements, making suggestions for further improvements.