ADVANCED DIPLOMA IN ANIMATION (ADA)

Course Modules

Module Description:

(1) Concept Development and Storyboarding

  Course length: 30 hours                   
Credit: 10
Year: 2012-13

This subject introduces students to Concept development and Storyboards making skills. Students will explore using such graphic organizers framework as a series of illustrations or images displayed in sequence for the purpose of pre-visualizing for a motion picture. This module will also include Story reels developments where videos using the storyboard elements and a rudimentary audio track are produced to give a sense of timing for the shots in the piece. Student will master how to use a camera pans and zooms across the cell of the storyboard to give a sense of camera motion.
This activity introduced them to the inherent subjectivity of storytelling, making them more conscious of ambiguity in their artistic vision for the development of their project and will prepare students with the needed core knowledge to critic and anticipate new directions in the planning and production of next generation Animations.

(2) Advanced 3D Modeling
Course length: 90 hours              
Credit: 30
Year: 2012-13

This subject introduces students to a detailed application of the skills required to create and modify 3D assets for use in digital and print content. Students will build wireframe representations of 3D objects from the inside out, to be rigged and animated. This subject introduces students in the creation of 2D and 3D environments and supporting visual assets. Models to be designed and created will range from terrains, trees, equipments, items, to character clothing etc. Students will explore advance features of Maya and optimize 3D assets for dynamic environments. At the end of the module, students will be able to gain experience in creating detailed and attractive 3D assets for use in the development of quality content for various platforms.

(3) Character Rigging
Course length: 90 hours             
Credit: 30
Year: 2012-13

This subject introduces students in the rigging process involves inserting a virtual skeleton into a computer-generated model to allow an animator flexibility in manipulate it into the pose. Student will learn to rig, skin, and test created 3D Characters in preparation for use in animation, motion pictures, games videos etc. The topic of rigging was natural transitions from modelling into animation as it encourages the students consider how their models would move like while walking jumping and running in different environments. A strong character setup allows maximum creativity when animating - crucial when it's a proprietary model you're animating, and a valuable skill in the industry to master.

(4) Character Animation
Course length: 120 hours               
Credit: 40
Year: 2012-13

This subject introduces students to the principles of posing in a highly dynamic, nonsymmetrical, relaxed stance that appeared much more realistic to the viewers. The sensory experience is critical in story-telling and triggering emotions in viewers. Students will explore various techniques of traditional animation principles developed by Walt Disney studio in 3D animation through class assignment based on 12 basic animation principles. This module also looks at the understanding and application of Lip sync, Facial animation, Camera animation, Timing balance, Emotions and Size-weight considerations. With step by step guided practices, this module will prepare the students with real-world skills in critical thinking, creative expression, and technical control.

(5) VFX and Particle Simulation
Course length: 60 hours                  
Credit: 20
Year: 2012-13

This subject train students in the essential understanding of visual effects in animation such as smoke, fire or moving clouds or particles. Students will learn a realistic approach to utilise particle system to make their project interesting and more realistic. This module also tasks the student to integrate effects elements with the project through a strong understanding of digital composting. At the end of the module, students will be aware of the fundamental concepts of visual effects and impact across different platforms, especially in terms of enriching and animating story for distribution.

(6) Lighting, Texturing & Rendering
Course length: 90 hours              
Credit: 30
Year: 2012-13

This subject train student in important skills used in creative elements of composition - Lighting, Texturing and Rendering. By controlling the light and directing it where it is required, students can subdue objects or distracting elements in the scene to give more emphasis to the main point of interest. In this module, student will learn how to use Light and shadows in composition to create mood, to draw attention to an area, to modify or distort shape, or to bring out form and texture in the subject. This module will also cover Textures, where it is applied to emphasize the features and details of the characters and objects. At the end of the module, student will learn how to do effective rendering of their creation with the right attributes to create a final output.

(7)Advanced Animation Final Year Project
Course length: 120 hours             
Credit: 40
Year: 2012-13

Succeeding as team leader for video production or content animation requires that designers must be able to generate original concepts, manage team members, complete projects on time, finish within budget and sustain a high level of viewers’ interest. The Advanced Animation Project tasks the student to review the animation fundamentals mastered from the various modules as project managers and apply the necessary skills in team format to create a short animated video. Students are expected to monitor all aspects of the project, ensure that proper knowledge and resources are harnessed to create the desired outcome in a timely, cost-effective manner.  The teams will also devote most of their time in the research and production of the creative video.
To do this successfully, a wide range of skills will be applied throughout the full life cycle of the production. This practical and hands-on project expertly distill knowledge from studies and put it to the test in a simulated real world production cycle as students follow the animation production from its inception to completion, combining the fundamental principles, disciplines and people management skills that contribute to long term project success.