James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2003

GA1210:03

Pre-press Technology

Townsville HECS Band 1

13 hours lectures, 13 hours tutorials, 26 hours practicals. Semester 2.

Available to students enrolled in the BCommunication Design degree.

This subject introduces students to the printing process and examines the ways in which design work is prepared for graphic reproduction utilising conventional and digital printing technologies.

Topics covered fall into three key areas:

  • An overview of the history of reprographic techniques and technologies.
  • Selecting and preparing illustrative material.
  • The printing press.

    • Learning Objectives:

    1. familiarity with all aspects of pre-press and printing;
    2. understand the difference between additive and subtractive colour models;
    3. ability to take a limited colour design from visual to print ready stage;
    4. ability to produce a colour separation for two, three and four colour work;
    5. understand a range of print and production terminologies;
    6. ability to liaise with pre-press, production and print professionals;
    7. familiarity with professional expectations and obligations;
    8. achieve an appropriate level of technical proficiency;
    9. awareness of the rate of technological change and ability to respond in an appropriate manner.

    Assessment by four practical assignments (80%); end of semester test paper (20%). Attendance of less than 80% at practical workshops will render students ineligible for assessment unless prior written approval has been obtained from the lecturer, academic adviser or Head of College.