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View how GA1313 is offered in 2004
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GA1313:03

Introduction to Desktop Publishing

Townsville

HECS Band 1

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

This subject is designed to provide a foundation level introduction to desktop publishing. It will be of benefit to anyone who may need to produce professional looking printed documents for any purpose. Topics covered include: hardware and software; technical terms and production processes; planning a DTP workflow; layout and design principles; grids and document design; type and digital typography; scanning and image preparation; copy and copy presentation; developing a style and building style sheets; effectively combining text and graphics; working with single colour, limited colour and full colour and producing colour separations; conventional and digital proofing and printing options, working with commercial printers, utilising portable and digital document formats, storing and transporting large files and troubleshooting print and production problems.

Learning Objectives:

select and utilise appropriate hardware and software to suit a range of publishing requirements;

design and produce a document template and define an overall document style;

utilise a range of design and layout techniques to enhance the appearance and readability of published documents;

select, specify and use type to suit design objectives;

scan, edit and manipulate images for use in an electronic publishing environment;

understand the requirements of working with limited and full colour documents;

produce "camera ready" artwork suitable for output using a range of conventional print processes;

proof and correct work prior to commitment to print process;

liaise with printers to ensure the print job proceeds smoothly;

produce PDF files for electronic distribution;

troubleshoot and resolve a range of basic technical and design related problems.

Assessment by four practical assignments (80%); end-of-semester revision test (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.