Digital tools Course:
Digital Alternative Spaces of Learning
Introduction
Welcome to Digital tools Course: Digital Alternative Spaces of Learning! In this course, students will explore the intersection of digital art, sustainability, and inclusive education through the lens of the New European Bauhaus (NEB) principles. Students will research NEB principles and sustainable design, delve into various digital art tools and techniques, and investigate virtual gallery platforms with a focus on accessibility.
Tutorials in VR/AR development will provide practical skills for creating immersive art experiences. Through case studies, students will analyse inclusive digital spaces in art education.
Let’s get started and explore what’s in store!
Index
Contents
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Digital tools Course: Digital Alternative Spaces of Learning
Module 1: Introduction to New European Bauhaus (NEB) Principles and Sustainable Design
Module 1 introduces the New European Bauhaus (NEB) by tracing its origins to the original Bauhaus movement, which transformed design by uniting art, technology, and function. Building on this legacy, the NEB upholds principles of sustainability, aesthetics, and inclusivity, aligning design with contemporary environmental and social priorities. This module also presents key concepts in sustainable design, offering learners insights into practices that balance ecological responsibility with beauty and accessibility in modern design.
Key Topics
- 1 Historical context of the Bauhaus movement and the evolution to NEB.
- 2 Key NEB principles: sustainability, aesthetics, inclusivity.
- 3 Introduction to sustainable design concepts and practices.
Goals
- Understand the historical context of the Bauhaus movement and its influence on the New European Bauhaus (NEB).
- Identify and explain the key principles of NEB: sustainability, aesthetics, and inclusivity.
- Recognise foundational concepts and practices in sustainable design.
Activity
Quiz: Choose the right answers about questions related to this module.
Module 2: Digital Art Tools and Techniques
Module 2 provides an introduction to essential digital tools and techniques used in contemporary art and design. Learners will explore popular digital art software, gaining a broad understanding of its capabilities and applications. The module delves into fundamental techniques for digital design, graphic design and animation, highlighting how these skills enhance creative expression in the digital realm. Additionally, this module introduces digital fabrication methods, such as 3D printing and laser cutting, offering insights into how these technologies bridge the gap between digital concepts and physical creations.
Key Topics
- 1 Overview of digital art software
- 2 Techniques for digital painting, 3D modelling, and animation.
- 3 Introduction to digital fabrication methods (3D printing, laser cutting).
Goals
- Gain familiarity with key digital art software and their applications in creative projects.
- Learn about the basic techniques in digital painting, 3D modelling, and animation.
- Understand the processes and applications of digital fabrication methods, including 3D printing and laser cutting.
Activity
Quiz: Choose the right answers about questions related to this module.
Module 3: VR/AR for Immersive Art Experiences (Theoretical)
Module 3 introduces the foundational concepts and technologies behind Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) and their applications in creating immersive art experiences. Learners will explore how VR and AR technologies are transforming artistic expression by blending digital and physical worlds, allowing for interactive and engaging experiences.
Key Topics
- 1 Fundamentals of VR/AR technology and applications in art.
- 2 Overview of virtual gallery platforms.
Goals
- Describe the fundamentals of VR and AR technology and their uses in artistic experiences.
Activity
Quiz: Choose the right answers about questions related to this module.
Module 4: VR/AR Development for Immersive Art Experiences (Practical Tools)
Module 4 covers essential software and tools used in VR/AR development, providing insights into how these tools support the creation of immersive environments and dynamic storytelling in the art world. It explores the growing realm of virtual gallery platforms and the importance of accessibility in digital exhibition spaces. Learners will gain an understanding of popular virtual gallery platforms, examining how they enable artists and institutions to showcase work online to a global audience. This module also emphasises principles of accessible design, focusing on strategies to make virtual spaces more inclusive and user-friendly for diverse audiences, including those with disabilities. By the end, learners will be equipped to consider both aesthetic and functional accessibility when creating or curating digital art environments.
Key Topics:
- 1 Software tools for VR/AR development
- 2 Principles of accessible design in virtual spaces.
Goals
- Identify and utilise basic VR/AR software and tools for developing immersive art projects. Apply principles of accessible design to create inclusive virtual art spaces.
- Understand the features and functionalities of popular virtual gallery platforms.
Activity
Quiz: Choose the right answers about questions related to this module.
Module 5: Inclusive Digital Spaces in Art Education
Module 5 examines the significance of creating inclusive digital spaces within art education, highlighting how these environments can support diverse learners and promote equal access to artistic resources and opportunities. The module begins by exploring how digital platforms can foster inclusivity, enabling students from various backgrounds and abilities to engage with art education. Through case studies of successful programs, learners will see practical examples of inclusive digital art education in action, offering insights into effective strategies and practices that make art education accessible and engaging for all.
Key Topics:
- 1 The role of digital spaces in fostering inclusive art education.
- 2 Case studies on successful inclusive digital art education programs.
Goals
- Recognise the role of digital platforms in fostering inclusive art education.
- Analyse successful case studies to understand best practices in inclusive digital art education.
Activity
Quiz: Choose the right answers about questions related to this module.
Module 6: Creating and Presenting Digital Art Projects (Theoretical Focus)
Module 6 provides a theoretical foundation for creating and presenting digital art projects, focusing on the planning, management, and display of digital work. Learners will explore strategies for project planning and management specifically tailored to digital art, covering essential aspects such as defining objectives, organising resources, and setting timelines to ensure project success. Additionally, the module examines various methods for presenting digital art, including virtual galleries and online portfolios, offering insights into effective practices for reaching and engaging audiences through diverse digital platforms.
Key Topics
- 1 Project planning and management for digital art projects.
- 2 Techniques for presenting digital art in various formats (virtual galleries, online portfolios, etc.).
Goals
- Develop foundational skills in planning and managing digital art projects effectively.
- Apply techniques for presenting digital art through various platforms, including virtual galleries and online portfolios.
Activity
Quiz: Choose the right answers about questions related to this module.
Recommended/Further Readings/Resources
To deepen your understanding, here are some recommended readings and additional resources:
- New European Bauhaus Initiative – European Commission
- Description: Official page for the NEB initiative, offering insights into its principles, goals, and projects across Europe.
- Bauhaus: The School of Modernism – Bauhaus.de
- Description: An overview of the Bauhaus movement, its history, and its enduring influence on modern design.
- Sustainable Design: A Critical Guide – MIT Press
- Description: Resource on sustainable design practices and principles, focusing on the environmental and social impacts of design choices.
- Adobe Creative Cloud Tutorials – Adobe
- Description: A vast collection of tutorials covering Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, and more, aimed at all levels.
- Procreate Official Handbook – Procreate
- Description: Procreate’s official guide, offering in-depth tutorials on digital painting techniques and features.
- Blender Fundamentals – Blender
- Description: Comprehensive beginner guide by Blender, covering 3D modelling, animation, and rendering techniques.
- Introduction to VR and AR – Google for Education
- Description: Basic concepts and applications of VR and AR, ideal for understanding the foundation of immersive technologies.
- The Art of VR – Tate Modern
- Description: Tate’s exploration of VR in the art world, discussing its potential to transform the viewer’s experience of art.
- AWE (Augmented World Expo) Blog – AWE
- Description: Blog offering insights into the latest trends and applications in VR and AR, with a focus on art and storytelling.
- Unity Learn – Unity
- Description: Unity’s official learning platform with tutorials on VR/AR development, ideal for beginners and experienced developers alike.
- Google AR & VR Developer Resources – Google
- Description: Resources, documentation, and sample projects for developing augmented reality apps with Google’s AR tools.
- Kunstmatrix Virtual Exhibitions
- Description: A platform and blog for setting up 3D virtual exhibitions, with examples and case studies on immersive galleries.
- Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) – W3C
- Description: A guide to accessible design principles and tools to ensure digital spaces are inclusive for all abilities.
- National Art Education Association (NAEA) Resources
- Description: Articles and resources on promoting inclusivity in art education, including strategies for digital spaces.
- Disability Arts Online (DAO)
- Description: An online platform supporting inclusive digital art practices, showcasing work by disabled artists and providing accessibility resources.
- Trello for Project Management – Trello Blog
- Description: Tips on using Trello for planning and managing creative projects, with customisation options for digital art workflows.
- Behance Portfolio Tips – Behance
- Description: Guidance from Behance on creating a professional online portfolio, with strategies for showcasing digital art effectively.
- The Virtual Gallery Handbook – Artland
- Description: Guide on creating and presenting digital art in virtual galleries, including tips on audience engagement and gallery design.
Final Test
This test will assess your knowledge and understanding of the material covered throughout the course.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.” Project number 2023-1-CY01-KA220-HED-000160668