Media Technology Studies Coordinator Robert Jones II (Program Chair) Description Trinity offers a minor in media technology studies in both the Weekday and Weekend Programs and complements all traditional majors, as well as all individualized and interdisciplinary majors. Students gain an opportunity to use and critically assess new media technologies. The minor concentrates on using computers to develop communication, graphic design and fine art skills. In particular, students learn the theory and practice of electronic and print publication design. This minor complements all majors including communication, education, history, English, business and art history. A student with a minor in media technology studies would qualify for an entry-level job in graphic design including web site design and print publication design. The student could also use acquired skills to pursue a career in the fine arts. A student successfully completing the MTS minor gains the following skills and knowledge: Basic computing skills such as word processing, spreadsheets, and Internet research. The ability to use image manipulations drawing and page layout software for electronic and print publishing. Knowledge of HTML. The ability to convey information in words and images electronically and in print. Visual design skills. The ability to use typography and color to create effective designs and layouts. Basic photography skills. Journalistic writing and editing skills. Understanding of the history of digital communications technologies. Understanding of the impact of digital communications on various fields such as the arts, mass communications, interpersonal communications, business, politics, and education. Minor Requirements Required Courses (15 credits) ALL of the following courses: MTS 203 Electronic Imaging MTS 299 Introduction to Publications MTS 301 Web Page Design MTS 310 Mastering Pre-Press Design MTS 330 History and Theory of Digital Communications ONE course chosen from between: MTS 235 Introduction to Computer Illustration and Design MTS 210 Graphic Design Special Note: To develop an interdisciplinary approach to studies in media and the arts, students are encouraged to review courses offered by the Fine Arts Program and the Communication Program. Program Policies Advanced Placement: Advanced Placement credits do not fulfill requirements for the MTS minor. CLEP Policy: Credits earned through CLEP examinations do not fulfill requirements for the MTS minor. Grades in Minor Courses: Students are required to earn a grade of "C" (2.0) or better in all courses counted to fulfill requirements for the minor. TELL Policy: Students may apply for credit in experiential learning through the Media Technology Studies Program and should consult with program faculty. Transfer Credits: A minimum of 12 credits must be taken at Trinity in order to meet the requirements for the media technology minor. Credits in courses similar to those offered at Trinity (up to six credits) may be accepted dependent upon program review and approval. Course Descriptions MTS 102 The Digital World 3 cr A basic computer literacy class. Students learn the key concepts and applications used for word processing, spreadsheets, and Internet research. FLC, Area I, Level 1 MTS 203 Electronic Imaging 3 cr Introduces students to the field of electronic imaging. Students learn to create and appreciate artwork conceived with the use of computers. Students gain experience with the use of scanners, image manipulation computer software, and digital cameras. Prerequisites: MTS 102 or permission of instructor FLC, Area I, Level 1 MTS 210 Graphic Design 3 cr Explores the principles of graphic design with an emphasis on typography, color, and layout while concentrating on the role of the computer in the design process. Course exposes students to small and large format design problems, including logo design, poster design, newsletter design and signage. Prerequisites: MTS 102 or permission of instructor MTS 212 Presentational Speaking and Technology 3 cr Involves the student in a variety of speaking engagements designed to develop speaking skills and use of technology as a visual aid. MTS 235 Introduction to Computer Illustration and Design 3 cr Introduces students to computer illustration. Students concentrate on acquiring illustration skills using a vector-based computer software program and developing a portfolio. Students also learn how to combine vector and raster-based software programs. Work by fine artists, illustrators and graphic designers from diverse time periods will be discussed. Prerequisites: MTS 102 or permission of instructor FLC, Area I, Level 1 MTS 260 Introduction to Video Editing 3 cr Introduces the "video revolution." Students learn to shoot and edit video, and use it as part of presentations and communications projects. Students will master the basics of video production and work in groups to plan, script, shoot, and edit video projects. No previous experience necessary. MTS 295 Multimedia Production 3 cr Introduces the student to the basics of media production from the planning, scripting, and story boarding phases to the implementation phase. The course will be taught using the video, audio, and image capabilities of the Media Center. Students will develop a final program incorporating video, audio, still images, and text on a topic based in an academic area of interest. MTS 299 Introduction to Publications 3 cr Introduces students to practical experience in journalistic writing, editing, and photography. Students learn newspaper design and acquire hands on experience with computer page layout and image processing software. In this class students become staff writers and photographers for Trinity's student newspaper, The Trinity Times. Prerequisites: MTS 102 and ENG 107 or permission of instructor FLC, Area I, Level 1 MTS 301 Web Page Design 3 cr Introduces students to web page design. Students learn technical skills such as HTML coding, use of editors, and how to create graphics for the web. The course also includes theory on design and on conveying information over the web. Prerequisite: MTS 203 FLC, Area I, Level 2 MTS 303 Electronic Imaging II 3 cr Builds upon computer imaging techniques covered in Electronic Imaging I. The focus is narrowed, and students develop a portfolio based on one or two in-depth assignments. MTS 310 Mastering PrePress Design 3 cr Learn how to create and publish highquality layout and images for Trinity's yearbook, The Trinilogue. All page, photo, and section development is done with current desktop publishing software. Prerequisites: MTS 102 and ENG 107 or permission of instructor FLC, Area I, Level 2 MTS 330 History and Theory of Digital Communications 3 cr Provides students with a historical and theoretical content to understand new communications technologies. Students in this course are expected to complete extensive reading and research on digital communications and its impact on the arts, mass communications advertising, dissemination of information and interpersonal communications. Selected books and periodicals on these topics will be discussed in class. Finally, web sites and other forms of digital communications such as exhibitions, installations and CD-ROMs will be examined. Prerequisites: Junior or senior standing FLC, Area VI, Level 2 MTS 360 Video Editing 3 cr Exposes students to advanced work with preproduction, production, and postproduction video skills to create and revise video projects. Students work in groups to script, film, and then edit and present specific video productions. Projects can include short films, business videos, advertisements, and political videos. Prerequisite: MTS 260 MTS 399 Independent Study 3 cr Allows students to pursue a research topic or project under the supervision of a faculty member. Prerequisites: Junior or senior standing and permission of the program coordinator   MTS 410 CDROM Digital Authoring 3 cr Provides experience with the reprocessing of media projects (printed publications, illustrations, music, photography, multimedia, web pages, and video) onto a multimedia CDROM. Students work together to create an interactive "best of" collection of media projects created by other courses and individuals. Prerequisites: MTS 201 and MTS 302 MTS 450 Media Technology Internship 3 cr Allows students to receive credit for using media technology skills during an internship. Previous students have worked for National Public Radio, USA Today, the Kennedy Center, National Geographic, and washingtonpost.com.