Description:

This is a study of the function of three-dimensional organization in the development of visual ideas. Concepts, materials and processes necessary to an understanding of the three-dimensional relationships of space, form, form evolution and the dynamics of structure are explored. 6 hrs. lecture and studio/wk.

Supplies: Refer to the instructor's course syllabus for details about any supplies that may be required.

Textbook(s): For information see - http://bookstore.jccc.net

Course Fees: NONE

Course Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this course the student should be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental concepts that are taught in this course, and that are inherent in all three-dimensional structures, by effectively applying them in course projects.
2. Demonstrate skill in the use of a variety of tools and materials commonly used in the solution of three-dimensional design problems.
3. Demonstrate an understanding and skill in the application, of basic structural principles by designing and constructing a variety of visually effective and structurally sound three-dimensional forms.
4. Demonstrate an ability to plan and visually describe projected three-dimensional pieces through preliminary drawings.
5. Describe the relationship between the specific structural qualities of a form, the physical properties of the materials used in its construction and the effectiveness of its intended function.
6. Effectively organize time and materials, work well independently and meet class deadline.

Content Outline & Competencies:

I. The Conceptual Foundations of Three-Dimensional Design
   A. List the three primary directions and basic views and discuss their
significance in the planning of 3-dimensional structures.
      1. Three primary directions
         a. Vertical
         b. Horizontal
         c. Transverse
      2. Three basic views
         a. Plane view
         b. Front view
         c. Side view
   B. List the four categories of three-dimensional design elements,
discuss their meaning and demonstrate their application in class
projects.
      1. Conceptual elements
         a. Point
         b. Line
         c. Plane
         d. Volume
      2. Visual elements
         a. Shape
         b. Size
         c. Color
         d. Texture
      3. Relational elements
         a. Balance/gravity
         b. Movement
         c. Proportion/scale
         d. Transition/direction
         e. Unity
         f. Position/opposition
         g. Distribution/space
         h. Variation
      4. Constructional elements
         a. Vertex
         b. Edge
         c. Face
   C. Identify and discuss different modes of both natural and man-made
structural/spatial organization and demonstrate their application in class
projects.
      1. Cellular
      2. Cylindrical/core structure
      3. Planar systems
      4. Trusses and space frames
      5. Rigid frame
      6. Slab
      7. Shell
      8. Cable
      9. Membrane/inflated
   D. Define and discuss the physical laws affecting structure.
      1. Weight (load)
      2. Balance (equilibrium/stability)
      3. Gravity
      4. Tension (lengthen)
      5. Compression (shorten)
      6. Torsion (shear)
   E. Discuss the relationship between the form and the function of
3-dimensional structures in each of the following categories:
      1. Scale and human dimensions
      2. Light modulation
      3. Multiples
      4. Applications in dimensional and environmental graphics

II. Materials: Types and Properties
   A. Demonstrate skill in the use of the following types of materials:
      1. Papers and boards
      2. Foams
      3. Paper pulp
      4. Rigid and flexible linear materials
   B. List materials that possess the following properties:
      1. Elastic
      2. Rigid
      3. Brittle
      4. Fluid

III. Structural Forms and Qualities
   A. Define and discuss relief structures and demonstrate an
understanding of their unique characteristics by applying them in the
design and construction of class projects.
      1. Bas relief or frontal view
      2. Modular forms used in their construction
         a. Platonic solids
         b. Archimedian solids
      3. Structural supports
   B. Define and discuss the qualities unique to full-round structures and
apply them in class projects.
      1. Multiple points of view
      2. Modular forms
         a. Serial planes
         b. Wall structures
         c. Prisms and cylinders
         d. Geometric solids
         e. Linear structures

IV. Attitudes and Work Habits
   A. Identify and develop positive attitudes toward tasks and colleagues
appropriate to the professional designer and to the workplace including
giving and accepting criticism and praise.
   B. Identify and develop productive work habits appropriate to the
professional designer and the workplace including: the ability to follow
verbal and written instructions, to demonstrate organizational skills,
attention to detail, adherence to schedules and deadlines, the timely 
completion of tasks and the maintenance of good attendance and
punctuality.
   C. Identify and develop individual or collaborative/teamwork skills
including solving problems independently by working alone or in groups,
building consensus and responding to supervision. 

Methods of Evaluation of Competencies:

Evaluation of student mastery of course competencies will be accomplished using the following methods:

Projects and tests   75 - 85% of grade
Studio performance   15 - 25% of grade
Total                  100%   
                      
Grades for projects will be based on project objectives and competencies
evaluated in class critiques, evaluation forms and individual
conferences.

Studio performance grade is based on the student's attendance record,
degree of productivity, ability to work independently and level of
participation in class critiques. 

Grade Scale:
      4.0  = A
      3.75 = A-
      3.25 = B+
      3.0  = B
      2.75 = B-
      2.25 = C+
      2.0  = C
      1.75 = C-
      1.25 = D+
      1.0  = D
below 1.0  = F

Semester Grade: total grade averaged to A, B, C, D, or F.

Caveats: NONE

Disabilities:

If you are a student with a disability, and if you will be requesting accommodations, it is your responsibility to contact Access Services. Access Services will recommend any appropriate accommodations to your professor and his/her director. The professor and director will identify for you which accommodations will be arranged.

JCCC provides a range of services to allow persons with disabilities to participate in educational programs and activities. If you desire support services, contact the office of Access Services for Students With Disabilities (913) 469-8500, ext. 3521 or TDD (913) 469-3885. The Access Services office is located in the Success Center on the second floor of the Student Center.