The course explores the relationship between images and messages in global media. Topics include the role and effects of imagery in news and documentary presentations, ethics of visual messages and the impact of technology on the communication of messages. The use of visual messages in journalism, advertising, public relations and in all media is dissected and analyzed. Plus, how all traditional visual design converges in present day global media.
The course will convey the story of how media provides global audiences with messages through imagery.  From the power of still photography to the explosiveness of film the strength of images to convey stories is deeply rooted in our humanity. We will take a look at the meaning of images in globalized media. Visual communication while regionally influenced is global in essence as mankind has from its primitive origins naturally communicated with images. Analysis of the characteristics, basic design and vehicles of presentation will be addressed. Thus, a theoretical approach to how messages are conveyed visually is at the core of the course. The course will also provide students with exposure and basic skills in the application of the presented design concepts and theories into practical web design. Finally, students will produce working web sites that represent in a creative and practical manner the current principles of visual communication as presently practiced in today’s global media.

Grading:
40%  Tests
40% Group Projects
20% Attendance/Class Participation

Student Learning Outcomes & Course Learning Outcomes
Global Awareness:
Global Learning Student Learning Outcome Addressed:
Students will be able to discuss prevailing world conditions associated with local, global, international, and intercultural issues, trends, and systems.
Course Learning Outcome:
Students will demonstrate knowledge of the global language of visual design and visual communication as manifested in present day globalized media.
Global Engagement:
Global Learning Outcome Addressed:
Students will be able to demonstrate engagement in local, international, intercultural, and global problem solving.
Course Learning Outcome:
Students will be able to demonstrate engagement in responding to a global issue presented from different perspectives in visual media design and communication to targeted audiences from various parts of the world.
Global Perspective:
Global Learning Student Learning Outcome Addressed:
Students will be able to detect the distinctive and common qualities between their own perspective and the perspectives of others.
Course Learning Outcome:
The course will analyze basic visual design elements in media found in all global media formats and products.

Students will also:

1. Develop an understanding of the language of the field of visual communication.
2. Develop an understanding of professional visual ethical principles and work ethically in pursuit of truth, accuracy, fairness and diversity.
3. Understand the concepts and apply the theories in the use and presentations of information through images.
4. Understand the power of symbols and visuals.
5. Recognize quality visual composition (layouts).
6. Appreciate the importance of color and its meaning.
7. Think critically, creatively and independently.  Plus, critically evaluate their work and the work of others.
8. Functional knowledge of image manipulation through the use of Adobe Photoshop.
9. Basic knowledge of web design through practical web page creation.

Academic Honesty
As FIU students, you are expected to strictly follow the honor code regarding academic honesty. Florida International University outlines your responsibilities as follows:
Florida International University is a community dedicated to generating and imparting knowledge through excellent teaching and research, the rigorous and respectful exchange of ideas and community service. All students should respect the right of others to have an equitable opportunity to learn and honestly to demonstrate the quality of their learning. Therefore, all students are expected to adhere to a standard of academic conduct, which demonstrates respect for themselves, their fellow students, and the educational mission of the University. All students are deemed by the University to understand that if they are found responsible for academic misconduct, they will be subject to the Academic Misconduct procedures and sanctions, as outlined in the Student Handbook.
Misconduct includes: Cheating – The unauthorized use of books, notes, aids, electronic sources; or assistance from another person with respect to examinations, course assignments, field service reports, class recitations; or the unauthorized possession of examination papers or course materials, whether originally authorized or not.  Plagiarism –  The use and appropriation of another’s work without any indication of the source and the representation of such work as the student’s own. Any student who fails to give credit for ideas, expressions or materials taken from another source, including internet sources, is responsible for plagiarism.
Any students who fail to meet these expectations will receive an “F” for the course grade and will be reported to the Chair of the Department, as well as the Dean of the School.