Visual Communication

This course explores the use of images (photographs, line art, icons, etc.) and text in communication, and how they serve to inform, to persuade, and to entertain. The approach taken in the course will consider both the principles (theory) and practices (hands-on experience) of these processes. In the course, students will implement four phases: acquiring images, page layout and design, implementation, and creation of a professional electronic portfolio. All assignments will focus on an organization or agency that students will choose in the first two weeks of the class. The organization or agency must be a real one and none of the materials may be copied. Students may use a service-learning option for this course and choose to work with the identified community partner as well.

The Learn and Serve America, Great Cities Great Service grant led by Otterbein College, Ohio Campus Compact, and University of Cincinnati is a state-wide consortium to mobilize college students and urban youth volunteers in civic service through their model initiative, youthLEAD (Learn, Engage, Act & Decide). Twelve campuses are currently incorporating youthLEAD into one or more service-learning courses on their campuses. Participants serve side-by-side with urban youth as capacity builders, solving community problems, serving those living in poverty, and strengthening urban wellness.