Joon Sung, Professor,
Department of Art - Western Kentucky University
Email: joon.sung@wku.edu Office: IWFAC 437

• Description
  This introductory course initiates students to the creative possibilities of 3D computer animation platform.
  
  
• Objectives
  • grasp a basic understanding of 3D software and other relevant software tools.
  • learn the principles of a basic 3D workflow from modeling, camera, texturing, lighting to rendering. 
  • view the process of 3D computer animation as an artistic and personal expression.
    
    
• Content outline
  Methods of instruction consist of lectures, demonstrations, animated work/film presentation, studio assignments, in-class lab time, and group critiques.
  
  
• Student Expectations and Requirements
  Making computer animation is fun and playful while it requires a great deal of attention and focus in order to create a fine animation. Since the quality of animation largely depends upon the amount of time and effort you put on, personal initiative and self-motivation are essential. You are expected to produce quality work based on creative and original thought and exploration of new skills and ideas.
  
  In addition, in the real world of computer animation production, nearly all work is collaborative and there is almost always more than one way to achieve the similar goal. In this course, students are encouraged to help each other with general problem-solving or software questions.
  
  
• Required Materials
  • A sketchbook or notebook, a removable USB Flash Drive (100 GB & over recommended) or an external hard drive (1 TB & over recommended).
  • When class takes place online, you will need
    • Reliable internet access
    • Access to a laptop or desktop computer with webcam
    • The minimum hardware recommendations are as follows
      System Requirements
      
      
• Required Textbooks
  There is no required text for this course.
  
  
• Notes
  • Attendance policy
    Prompt and regular attendance is mandatory. Four absences (including arriving late or leaving early) will result in a lowering of your final grade at least one full letter.
    
    
  • Cell phone:
    No Cell phones in class. They must be turned OFF.
  • Food:
    No food in the computer lounge.
    
    
• Evaluation/Grading
  based on the...
  • Effort: how much effort/time you put in?
  • Creativity: overall quality, style and innovation.
  • Execution: technical execution. How good does the image look and sound?
  • Originality: how does the work stand out from the rest of them?
  • Subject/Tone: how effective is the subject being told? Or the tone that is being conveyed?
  • Exposition: how accurately are concepts and information communicated?
    *Assignments submitted after the due date will receive a 10% grade deduction
    
    A = 90-100%; Outstanding achievement; available only for the highest accomplishment.
    B = 80-89%; Praiseworthy performance; definitely above average.
    C = 70-79%; Average; awarded for satisfactory performance; the most common grade.
    D = 60-69%; Minimally passing; less than average achievement for undergraduate students.
    F = 59% and below; Failing.
    

• Statement Regarding Images of Students
  The WKU university photographer may take photos of class activities during the semester. The pictures will be used to promote the WKU Department of Art & Design. Please let your instructor know if you have any concerns or do not want to be in these pictures.

• WKU Syllabus Statement on Face Coverings in the Classroom

All students are strongly encouraged to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Out of respect for the health and safety of the WKU community and in adherence with CDC guidelines and practices of all public universities and colleges in Kentucky, the University requires that a cloth face covering (reusable or disposable) that covers both the nose and mouth must be worn at all times when in public areas within all buildings. Students must properly wear face coverings while in class regardless of the room size or the nature of the classroom activities. Students who fail to wear a face covering as required will be in violation of the WKU Student Code of Conduct and will be asked to comply or will face disciplinary action, including possible dismissal from the University. Accommodations can be requested in special cases through the Student Accessibility and Resource Center (SARC): 270-745-5004 (voice), 270-745-3030 (TTY), or 270-288-0597 (video).

All students must immediately report a positive Covid-19 test result or close contact with a person who has tested positive to the Covid-19 Assistance Line at 270-745-2019. The assistance line is available to answer questions regarding any Covid-19 related issue. This guidance is subject to change based on requirements set forth by public health agencies or the office of the governor. Please refer to the Healthy on the Hill website for the most current information. www.wku.edu/healthyonthehill

• ADA Accommodation

In compliance with University policy, students with disabilities who require academic and/or auxiliary accommodations for this course must contact the Student Accessibility Resource Center located in Downing Student Union, Room 1074.  The SARC can be reached by phone number at 270-745-5004 [270-745-3030 TTY] or via email at sarc.connect@wku.edu. Please do not request accommodations directly from the professor or instructor without a faculty notification letter (FNL) from The Student Accessibility Resource Center.

• Title IX/ Discrimination & Harassment

Western Kentucky University (WKU) is committed to supporting faculty, staff and students by upholding WKU’s Title IX Sexual Misconduct/Assault Policy (#0.2070) and Discrimination and Harassment Policy(#0.2040). Under these policies, discrimination, harassment and/or sexual misconduct based on sex/gender are prohibited. If you experience an incident of sex/gender-based discrimination, harassment and/or sexual misconduct, you are encouraged to report it to the Title IX Coordinator, Andrea Anderson, 270-745-5398 or Title IX Investigators, Michael Crowe, 270-745-5429 or Joshua Hayes, 270-745-5121.

Please note that while you may report an incident of sex/gender based discrimination, harassment and/or sexual misconduct to a faculty member, WKU faculty are “Responsible Employees” of the University and MUST report what you share to WKU’s Title IX Coordinator or Title IX Investigator. If you would like to speak with someone who may be able to afford you confidentiality, you may contact WKU’s Counseling and Testing Center at 270-745-3159.