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Anther Kiley
Typography is the art of manipulating the visual form of language to enrich and control its meaning. It’s an essential area of skill and knowledge for graphic designers. Typography predates modern graphic design by around 500 years; it is rich in rules, conventions, and esoteric terminology—but it remains an exciting space for invention and expression.
Read more
Typography is the art of manipulating the visual form of language to enrich and control its meaning. It’s an essential area of skill and knowledge for graphic designers. Typography predates modern graphic design by around 500 years; it is rich in rules, conventions, and esoteric terminology—but it remains an exciting space for invention and expression.
Read more
Typography is the art of manipulating the visual form of language to enrich and control its meaning. It’s an essential area of skill and knowledge for graphic designers. Typography predates modern graphic design by around 500 years; it is rich in rules, conventions, and esoteric terminology—but it remains an exciting space for invention and expression.
In this rigorous introductory course, we will study, name, and measure the characteristics of letterforms. We’ll consider the pragmatic concerns involved in selecting and combining type. We’ll peek into the rich historical, cultural, and aesthetic histories of familiar typefaces. We’ll discuss time-tested conventions and best practices in setting type, as governed by principles of hierarchy and spatial organization. And we’ll explore the expressive, meaning-making potential of type.
Informative lectures will be complemented by a series of three peer-assessed assignments, culminating in an opportunity to design a full-scale typographic poster.
Please note that this is not a software course; a basic working knowledge of Adobe InDesign or other page layout software will be assumed. You will need access to a computer and page layout software, such as InDesign, to complete the assignments.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/g6nbak/introduction
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What's inside
Syllabus
Week 1: Talking Type
This week, we’ll take an up-close look at typefaces, both as physical artifacts and as works of design.
We will study the formal elements that define and give character to type, and understand where they came from and why they look the way they do. We will review the terminology and measuring system used to describe type, and look at the way the form and proportion of letters relate to the practical concerns of selecting and combining typefaces. The week will wrap up with a graded quiz.
Read more
Syllabus
Week 1: Talking Type
This week, we’ll take an up-close look at typefaces, both as physical artifacts and as works of design.
We will study the formal elements that define and give character to type, and understand where they came from and why they look the way they do. We will review the terminology and measuring system used to describe type, and look at the way the form and proportion of letters relate to the practical concerns of selecting and combining typefaces. The week will wrap up with a graded quiz.
Read more
Week 2: Typefaces and their Stories
This week, we’ll explore the way typefaces express connotative meaning—tell stories—through their association with different time periods, aesthetics, and ideas. Through six short case studies, we
will look at the way a typeface’s connotations are shaped by its context, understand the historic evolution of typographic forms, and familiarize ourselves with the way typefaces are classified. You’ll extend
your exploration through some independent research into a typeface of your choosing.
Week 3: Putting Type to Work
This week, we will engage the visual principles and conventions of typesetting. We will look at how the spaces between letters, lines, and blocks of type can be manipulated to refine the appearance and control the meaning of type. We’ll explore the ways typographic hierarchy and grid systems can further organize and clarify type. And we’ll survey the rules and conventions that can add polish to your typesetting. You’ll apply your skills and knowledge in a peer-reviewed typesetting exercise at the end
of the week.
Week 4: Making Meaningful Type
In our final week, we’ll examine the ways typographic form can dramatically shape the meaning of written language. We’ll survey and analyze possibilities for type treatments—from subtle typesetting choices
to dramatic manipulations—by looking at examples of expressive and unconventional typography. At the end of the week, you’ll bring together and apply everything you have learned in this course in the
design of a full-scale typographic poster.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Examines the history, culture, and aesthetics of typefaces, providing depth in knowledge
Imparts the principles of hierarchy and organization in typography
Develops mastery in typography, including form, proportion, and terminology, building a solid foundation for graphic design
Emphasizes the practical implications of typography, equipping learners to effectively use type in design
Builds proficiency in Adobe InDesign or equivalent software, essential for graphic design projects
Suitable for beginners seeking a comprehensive introduction to typography
Save this course
Save Introduction to Typography to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Typography terms and concepts
Learners say that this course serves as a good introduction to typography for the digital age. According to students, the course materials help learners understand basic terminology and design considerations. Additionally, the course includes an engaging project that is built on over the duration of the course as it introduces students to these key concepts.
Course includes a project that builds on itself over three weeks.
"You work on a project that builds on itself over three weeks as you are introduced to those considerations."
Course focuses on typography in the digital age.
"This is a good introduction to typography in the digital age, teaching terminology and basic design considerations."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Introduction to Typography with these
activities:
Review the basics of typography
Show steps
Reacquaint yourself with the fundamentals of typography before starting the course.
Browse courses on
Typography
Show steps
-
Read articles or watch videos on the basics of typography.
-
Review your notes from previous typography courses or workshops.
-
Take a practice quiz or test to assess your knowledge.
Organize your learning materials
Show steps
Ensure that your notes, assignments, and other course materials are well-organized for easy reference and review.
Browse courses on
Organization
Show steps
-
Set up a dedicated folder or notebook for the course.
-
File your notes and assignments in a logical and easy-to-find manner.
-
Regularly review your materials to reinforce your learning.
Practice identifying different typefaces
Show steps
Improve your ability to recognize and distinguish between different typefaces.
Browse courses on
Typography
Show steps
-
Visit websites like Typewolf or FontSquirrel that provide examples of different typefaces.
-
Look at the typefaces and try to identify their characteristics, such as serif or sans-serif, weight, and style.
-
Take quizzes or play games that test your ability to identify typefaces.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Read "Type on Screen" by Erik Spiekermann
Show steps
Familiarize yourself with the principles of typography as they apply to digital screens.
View
Stop Stealing Sheep & find out how type works...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read chapters 1-3 to learn the basics of typography.
-
Read chapters 4-6 to understand the challenges of typography on screen.
-
Complete the exercises in chapters 7-8 to practice applying the principles you've learned.
Watch tutorials on typographic hierarchy and spatial organization
Show steps
Learn how to use typographic hierarchy and spatial organization to improve the readability and impact of your designs.
Browse courses on
Typography
Show steps
-
Search for tutorials on typographic hierarchy and spatial organization on YouTube or Skillshare.
-
Watch the tutorials and take notes on the key concepts.
-
Apply the concepts you've learned to your own design projects.
Participate in a peer review session
Show steps
Provide constructive feedback to your peers and receive feedback on your own work, fostering a sense of community and improving your understanding of typography.
Browse courses on
Typography
Show steps
-
Find a partner or group of peers who are also taking the course.
-
Exchange your work with your peers.
-
Provide constructive feedback on your peers' work, focusing on both the strengths and weaknesses.
-
Incorporate the feedback you receive into your own work.
Create a typographic poster for a local event
Show steps
Reinforce your knowledge of typography by designing a poster that meets specific design requirements.
Browse courses on
Typography
Show steps
-
Choose an event to promote.
-
Write a brief description of the event.
-
Select images or graphics that represent the event.
-
Use your typography skills to create a visually appealing poster.
-
Print and distribute your poster.
Design a full-scale typographic poster
Show steps
Synthesize your learning by designing a comprehensive and polished typographic poster that showcases your skills.
Browse courses on
Typography
Show steps
-
Choose a topic or message for your poster.
-
Research different typefaces and styles to determine the best fit for your message.
-
Create a rough sketch of your poster.
-
Use a design software to refine your design and add elements like images or graphics.
-
Print your poster or share it online.
Review the basics of typography
Show steps
Reacquaint yourself with the fundamentals of typography before starting the course.
Browse courses on
Typography
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read articles or watch videos on the basics of typography.
- Review your notes from previous typography courses or workshops.
- Take a practice quiz or test to assess your knowledge.
Organize your learning materials
Show steps
Ensure that your notes, assignments, and other course materials are well-organized for easy reference and review.
Browse courses on
Organization
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Set up a dedicated folder or notebook for the course.
- File your notes and assignments in a logical and easy-to-find manner.
- Regularly review your materials to reinforce your learning.
Practice identifying different typefaces
Show steps
Improve your ability to recognize and distinguish between different typefaces.
Browse courses on
Typography
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Visit websites like Typewolf or FontSquirrel that provide examples of different typefaces.
- Look at the typefaces and try to identify their characteristics, such as serif or sans-serif, weight, and style.
- Take quizzes or play games that test your ability to identify typefaces.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Read "Type on Screen" by Erik Spiekermann
Show steps
Familiarize yourself with the principles of typography as they apply to digital screens.
View
Stop Stealing Sheep & find out how type works...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read chapters 1-3 to learn the basics of typography.
- Read chapters 4-6 to understand the challenges of typography on screen.
- Complete the exercises in chapters 7-8 to practice applying the principles you've learned.
Watch tutorials on typographic hierarchy and spatial organization
Show steps
Learn how to use typographic hierarchy and spatial organization to improve the readability and impact of your designs.
Browse courses on
Typography
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for tutorials on typographic hierarchy and spatial organization on YouTube or Skillshare.
- Watch the tutorials and take notes on the key concepts.
- Apply the concepts you've learned to your own design projects.
Participate in a peer review session
Show steps
Provide constructive feedback to your peers and receive feedback on your own work, fostering a sense of community and improving your understanding of typography.
Browse courses on
Typography
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a partner or group of peers who are also taking the course.
- Exchange your work with your peers.
- Provide constructive feedback on your peers' work, focusing on both the strengths and weaknesses.
- Incorporate the feedback you receive into your own work.
Create a typographic poster for a local event
Show steps
Reinforce your knowledge of typography by designing a poster that meets specific design requirements.
Browse courses on
Typography
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose an event to promote.
- Write a brief description of the event.
- Select images or graphics that represent the event.
- Use your typography skills to create a visually appealing poster.
- Print and distribute your poster.
Design a full-scale typographic poster
Show steps
Synthesize your learning by designing a comprehensive and polished typographic poster that showcases your skills.
Browse courses on
Typography
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a topic or message for your poster.
- Research different typefaces and styles to determine the best fit for your message.
- Create a rough sketch of your poster.
- Use a design software to refine your design and add elements like images or graphics.
- Print your poster or share it online.
Career center
Learners who complete Introduction to Typography will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Graphic designer
Graphic designer
Graphic Designers create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They develop the overall layout and production design for various applications such as brochures, advertisements, magazines, and corporate reports.
Art Director
Art Director
Art Directors oversee the visual style and concepts of a variety of media, including magazines, newspapers, product packaging, and websites.
UX Designer
UX Designer
UX Designers enhance the interaction between users and products by studying user behavior and creating user-friendly interfaces.
Web Designer
Web Designer
Web Designers create and maintain websites. They are responsible for the visual appeal of a website, as well as its functionality.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers develop and execute marketing campaigns to promote products or services.
Public relations manager
Public relations manager
Public Relations Managers develop and maintain a positive public image for their organization or clients.
Social Media Manager
Social Media Manager
Social Media Managers develop and execute social media strategies to promote their organization or clients.
Copywriter
Copywriter
Copywriters write text for a variety of purposes, including advertising, marketing, public relations, and journalism.
Editor
Editor
Editors review, edit, and revise written material for a variety of purposes, including books, magazines, newspapers, and websites.
Librarian
Librarian
Librarians help people find and access information. They may work in a variety of settings, including public libraries, school libraries, and academic libraries.
Teacher
Teacher
Teachers educate students in a variety of subjects. They may work in a variety of settings, including public schools, private schools, and colleges and universities.
Professor
Professor
Professors teach and conduct research at colleges and universities.
Researcher
Researcher
Researchers conduct research to advance knowledge in a variety of fields.
Writer
Writer
Writers write creativa content, such as novels, short stories, plays, and poems.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists write news and feature articles for a variety of publications.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/g6nbak/introduction
Reading list
We've selected 28 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Introduction to Typography.
This comprehensive reference book provides a wealth of information on typography, including typefaces, terminology, measurement systems, and printing techniques. It is an invaluable resource for designers, editors, and anyone working with type.
Save
This essential guide to typography by Robert Bringhurst must-read for any serious student of typography. It covers all aspects of typography, from the basics of letterforms to the finer points of typesetting.
Save
This classic work by Ellen Lupton comprehensive guide to typography, covering everything from the history of type to the latest digital technologies. It's a great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the art and science of typography.
This comprehensive textbook covers all aspects of typography, from the history and anatomy of type to the practical applications of type in graphic design. It valuable resource for students and professionals alike.
Save
Comprehensive guide to visual communication that covers everything from the basics of typography to the latest trends in visual design. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to use typography and images to communicate effectively.
Spanish translation of Emil Ruder's classic work on typography.
Save
This visual guide showcases a wide range of typefaces, providing detailed information on their history, characteristics, and usage. It valuable resource for designers and anyone interested in the aesthetics and application of type.
Save
This beautifully illustrated book showcases the collection of the Letterform Archive, a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and study of type and typography. It features a wide range of type specimens, from historical artifacts to contemporary designs.
Presents a comprehensive overview of typography, covering its history, principles, and applications. It valuable resource for both beginners and experienced designers looking to enhance their typographic skills.
Save
This classic work on typography, originally published in German, presents a systematic approach to typography, emphasizing the principles of clarity, simplicity, and functionality. It valuable resource for designers, editors, and anyone working with type.
Collection of essays on typography by one of the most influential designers of the 20th century. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the art of typography.
Practical guide to typography that is perfect for designers of all levels. It covers all aspects of typography, from the basics to the most advanced techniques.
Save
Explores the relationship between typography and meaning and provides insights into how type can be used to communicate effectively.
Collection of essays on contemporary typography by some of the world's leading designers. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the latest trends in typography.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of typography.
Practical guide to typography for non-designers. It covers all the basics of typography, including type anatomy, typefaces, and typography in the digital age.
Fun and informative guide to typography that is perfect for beginners. It covers all the basics of typography, including type anatomy, typefaces, and typography in the digital age.
Provides a practical guide to the principles and practices of typography.
Comprehensive guide to type anatomy that is perfect for beginners. It covers all the basics of type anatomy, including type anatomy, typefaces, and typography in the digital age.
Save
This collection of essays explores the impact of typography on our culture and society. It provides insights into the role of typography in advertising, branding, and communication.
Save
This controversial book challenges traditional notions of typography and graphic design. It explores the impact of digital technologies on the way we create and consume visual media.
Collection of inspiring typography ideas that can be used by designers of all levels. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic typography to advanced techniques.
Save
Explores the history and culture of typography and provides insights into the role of type in our lives.
This engaging and accessible book demystifies typography, making it understandable and enjoyable for readers of all levels. It covers a wide range of topics, from the history of typography to the practical aspects of type design and selection.
Provides a concise overview of the history and principles of typography.
Provides a historical overview of the development of graphic design, including typography.
Save
Explores the relationship between typography and image and provides insights into how type can be used to enhance visual communication.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of web typography.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/g6nbak/introduction
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Effort
4 weeks of study, 1-3 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
California Institute of the Arts
Instructor
Anther Kiley
Language
English
Transcripts
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This course belongs to a
collection
called
Graphic Design. It's comprised of six courses:
- Ideas from the History of Graphic Design
- Brand New Brand
- Introduction to Imagemaking
- Fundamentals of Graphic Design
- Introduction to Typography (viewing)
- Photoshop CC Selections
Good to know
Examines the history, culture, and aesthetics of typefaces, providing depth in knowledge
Imparts the principles of hierarchy and organization in typography
Develops mastery in typography, including form, proportion, and terminology, building a solid foundation for graphic design
Emphasizes the practical implications of typography, equipping learners to effectively use type in design
Builds proficiency in Adobe InDesign or equivalent software, essential for graphic design projects
Suitable for beginners seeking a comprehensive introduction to typography
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