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By following each of two learning paths on these concepts of graphic design basics and their application in modern desktop publishing, those with no formal graphic design training can improve their page layout and text compositions.
1.1 Building Blocks of Design
The first class describes the 5 elements of design: lines, shapes, mass, texture, and color. Also describes other elements sometimes included as basic building blocks.
1.2 An Introduction to the Elements of Design
1.2 Lines
Everyone knows what a line is, right? Look more closely at the great variety of lines, straight, curved, thick, thin, solid, and not-solid.
1.2 Lines
1.3 Shapes
Squares (and rectangles), triangles, and circles are the three basic shapes. Examine their role in design including the psychology of shapes in logo design. Class also touches on freeform shapes.
1.3 Shapes
1.4 Mass
How big is it? Take a look at mass or visual weight of graphic and text elements. This class includes a large section on size and measurements for type and paper and images.
1.4 Mass
1.5 Texture
In addition to the actual texture of the paper we print on, look at the textures we create through techniques such as embossing and the visual texture created with certain graphics techniques.
1.5 Texture
1.6 Color
What is the meaning of red? Which colors go well together? Color symbolism and association is the primary focus of this class. It also touches briefly on the mechanics of color reproduction on the Web and in print.
1.6 Color
2.1 The Big Picture
Different instructors or designers have their own idea about the basic principles of design but most are encompassed in the 6 principles of balance, proximity, alignment, repetition, contrast, and white space. Learn the definitions of each principle.
2.1 An Introduction to the Principles of Design
2.2 Balance
Symetrical, radial, formal, and informal ways of arranging elements on a page to achieve visual balance is the focus of this class. Also covers the 'rule of thirds' and other structural elements.
2.2 Balance
2.3 Proximity/Unity
Learn how to arrange elements on the page through proximity -- keeping like items together and creating unity by how close or far apart elements are from each other.
Lessons not yet online [See these self-study resources on Proximity]
2.4 Alignment
While centered text has its place it is often the mark of a novice designer. Learn how to align text and graphics to create more interesting, dynamic, or appropriate layouts.
Lessons not yet online [See these self-study resources on Alignment]
2.5 Repetition/Consistency
Get an understanding of the importance of consistency for the reader and ways to create a consistent and balanced look through different types of repetition.
Lessons not yet online [See these self-study resources on Consistency]
2.6 Contrast
Big vs. small, black vs. white. These are some ways to create contrast and visual interest. Learn a variety of ways to use contrast.
Lessons not yet online [See these self-study resources on Contrast]
2.7 White Space
The art of nothing is another description for this principle. View examples of good and bad use of white space and how to avoid trapped white space.
Lessons not yet online [See these self-study resources on White Space]
Source : About.com
To make us easy to understand about the graphic design itself, we already make a review about two website. We make a comparison between TransTV and RCTI websites.
The slide presentation of the comparison can be downloaded here
For full document can be downloaded here
