CDES 210 – Design It: Visual Storytelling Through Digital Media

This course introduces students to the fundamental principles and practices of digital design with a focus on communication across visual media. Students will explore how to convey messages effectively through design, learning to use industry-standard software such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, and Premiere Pro.

Through lectures, workshops, and hands-on projects, students will engage in creative problem-solving, develop visual storytelling strategies, and learn to produce a range of digital artefacts including vector illustrations, posters, and gifs. The course also emphasizes reflective practice and collaboration.

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• LO1: Produce a range of digital artefacts in response to communication briefs using Adobe software.
• LO2: Critically reflect on the design process, showing an understanding of tools, techniques, and visual strategies for communication.
• LO3: Collaborate and present work effectively in both written and oral forms, demonstrating engagement with feedback and peer learning.

Software & Tools 

• Adobe Illustrator
• Adobe Photoshop
• Adobe InDesign
• Adobe Premiere Pro
• Digital camera or smartphone
• Tripod (optional but helpful)

Required Material

A laptop with Adobe Creative Suite installed, plus standard drawing tools (pencils) and a notebook for manual sketching and notes.

Course descriptions may be subject to occasional minor modifications at the discretion of the instructor.