Interactive Computer Graphics from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Graphical User Interfaces

Graphical user interfaces turn computer control problem into visual problem solving. The lectures of this module introduce five attempts to enhance current GUI operations such as scrolling interfaces, management of desktop icons, pointing on a large display, digital inking, and vocal interaction.

2D Drawings and Animations

In this module we will dive deep into the world of 2D. We will discuss techniques for authoring 2D drawings and animations. Specifically, we will introduce interactive diagram beautification, pen-and-ink texture synthesis, shape manipulation, and dynamic illustrations. We hope you will witness how interactive software can change burdensome drawing work into full of fun!

3D Geometric Modeling

In this module, we rise up from 2D plane to 3D space, and discuss 3D geometric modeling methods. Topics introduced are; suggestive interface for architectural models, a sketch-based modeling system for freeform shapes, a curve-based shape control method, a flower modeling system, and volumetric texture. You will see how 3D objects can be easily and quickly modeled by specially-designed 2D user interfaces!

Deformation and Animation

Starting from this module, we are shifting our attention towards simulating/crafting real objects and movements, which usually require intricate systems to deal with. As for this module, we will introduce clothing manipulation techniques, layer operations for stacked deformable objects, spatial key framing for character animations, procedural deformation, and human motion visualization using stick figures. You will discover how deformation and animation techniques help visually reproduce complex objects and motions.

Fabrication

In this module, we will discuss systems for supporting personal fabrication. In particular, we will introduce systems for designing plush toys, beadworks, chairs, and softly folded objects. In addition, interactive packing method is presented.

Computer-aided Design

Nowadays, computers are indispensable for designing products; computers mediate the interaction between designers and products. But in most cases, designing and testing processes are separated, so that designers will not foresee the consequences of their design in real time. In this module, we will discuss computer-aided design supported by simultaneous physical simulation. The works introduced are: systems for designing cantilever, musical instruments, garments, furniture, and gliders. You will see how real-time feedback helps designers improve the output products!

Real-world Interaction

Computer-operated appliances, such as robotic cleaners, are gradually spreading to general households in recent years. These emerging technologies have opened the door to the new research area, i.e. research on the interactions between ordinary people and robots. In this module, we will discuss interactive techniques and systems for real world interaction. Topics include: a command card interface for robot control, style-by-demonstration for robot behavior design, an actuated puppet device for character posing, a painting interface for robotic lights, and a fur display.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Provides practical insights and skills for designing and implementing interactive tools

Focuses on the intersection of computer graphics and visual problem solving

Taught by Takeo Igarashi, a recognized expert in computer graphics

Covers a diverse range of techniques from 2D drawings and animations to 3D geometric modeling

Prior knowledge of computer graphics concepts may be helpful

Reviews summary

In-depth computer graphics

According to students, Interactive Computer Graphics is an in-depth course that focuses on principles and algorithms. Learners say the lectures in this course are fascinating and present research results that aren't widespread yet. However, some students did not feel that the course was useful because it does not provide learners with the skills they need to create their own work.

engaging lectures that present unique research

"The lectures for this course are quite fascinating"

"basically the professor presents a different project from his research group (and there are lots of them, and they are all cool)"

Course goes beyond tool use to teach principles.

"teaches principles and algorithms, not tool-use like some other courses"

"presents not-yet widespread research results"

Course lacks practical applications.

"After this course I have no skills to do smth by myself."

"I found this course as a waste of time!"

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 Interactive Computer Graphics with these activities:

Organize your course notes and materials

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Stay organized and improve your understanding by compiling and reviewing your course notes and materials.

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Gather all your lecture notes, assignments, and handouts.
Review and summarize the key concepts covered in each lecture.
Organize your notes into a logical structure, such as by topic or module.
Create a study guide or cheat sheet for quick reference during exams.

Review course concepts with peers

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Enhance your understanding by discussing and reviewing course concepts with peers.

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Form a study group with classmates.
Meet regularly to discuss lecture materials and assignments.
Take turns explaining concepts and answering questions.
Work together on practice problems and projects.

Explore the 2D drawing and animation techniques

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Complete these practice drills to reinforce the 2D drawing and animation techniques taught in the course.

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Create a 2D drawing using the interactive diagram beautification tool.
Design a pen-and-ink texture using the provided synthesis tool.
Animate a 2D drawing using the dynamic illustrations feature.

Four other activities

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Design a 3D geometric model

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Create a 3D geometric model to apply the techniques learned in the course and enhance your understanding of 3D modeling principles.

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Choose an object to model.
Sketch the object's shape using the provided sketch-based modeling system.
Refine the model's details using the suggestive interface for architectural models.
Finalize the model and export it in a suitable format.

Attend a workshop on 3D animation

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Expand your knowledge and skills by attending a workshop focused on 3D animation.

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Research and find a suitable 3D animation workshop.
Register for the workshop and make necessary arrangements.
Actively participate in the workshop and engage with the instructors.
Apply the techniques learned in the workshop to your own projects.

Participate in a computer-aided design competition

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Engage in a computer-aided design competition to showcase your skills, learn from others, and push the boundaries of your knowledge.

Browse courses on Computer-Aided Design

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Find a suitable competition that aligns with your interests.
Develop a design concept and create a 3D model using computer-aided design software.
Prepare a presentation or documentation to showcase your design.
Submit your entry and participate in the competition.

Build a portfolio of interactive computer graphics projects

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Showcase your skills and understanding by creating a portfolio of interactive computer graphics projects.

Browse courses on Graphical User Interfaces

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Identify a range of interactive computer graphics projects that interest you.
Plan and design the projects, considering their functionality and user experience.
Develop the projects using appropriate software tools and technologies.
Document your projects, including descriptions, screenshots, and code snippets.
Present your portfolio to potential employers or clients.

Career center

Learners who complete Interactive Computer Graphics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Product Designer

This course may be helpful if you intend to become a Product Designer. The constant flow of new products and services demands increasingly innovative minds to imagine them. This course goes over the latest techniques for the design of objects ranging from plush toys to furniture, garments to buildings. Enrolling in this course will help get your career off to a running start in Product Design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Designer

Interaction Designer

This course may be helpful if you intend to become an Interaction Designer. This field is at the heart of user experience design. It seeks to define how users will interact with a particular product or service. This course covers topics such as touch screen interaction, vocal interaction, and novel interfaces. Taking this course will provide you with valuable knowledge as you launch your career as an Interaction Designer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Interaction Designer

User Interface Designer

This course may be helpful if you intend to become a User Interface Designer. Much of the work in this field involves crafting interfaces both intuitive and seamless. The material covered in this course introduces you to interactive techniques to enhance traditional GUIs. Upon completing it, you are likely to build a solid foundation for a career in User Interface Design.

See salaries and explore the career path for User Interface Designer

Animator

This course may be helpful if you intend to become an Animator. The more captivating forms of visual storytelling such as film and video games depend on the talents of Animators. This course features modules that dive into character animations, spatial key framing, and procedural deformations. Mastering the skills covered in this course will help you succeed in your desired career as an Animator.

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Graphic designer

This course may be helpful if you intend to become a Graphic Designer. The field of Graphic Design frequently requires one to create designs that blend between aesthetic beauty and functional usability. This course contains material such as digital inking, shape manipulation, illustrations, and beautification. Becoming familiar with this material will help you meet the varied needs of clients in your future career as a Graphic Designer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Graphic designer

Robotics Engineer

This course may be helpful if you intend to become a Robotics Engineer. This course covers topics such as robotic cleaners, command card interfaces, and style-by-demonstration for robot behavior design, and motion visualization using stick figures. These topics will help you develop valuable skills in the field of Robotics Engineering.

See salaries and explore the career path for Robotics Engineer

Motion Graphic Designer

This course may be helpful if you intend to become a Motion Graphic Designer. This field involves creating moving graphics for a variety of platforms and purposes, such as web advertisements, animations for films or television, and video games. The course covers topics such as deformation and animation. This course will provide you with a solid foundation for a career as a Motion Graphic Designer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Motion Graphic Designer

Game Designer

This course may be helpful if you intend to become a Game Designer. This role involves designing and developing video games, often working with a team of other designers, programmers, and artists. This course covers topics such as character animations, spatial key framing, and procedural deformations. These topics may be useful if you are interested in a career as a Game Designer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Designer

Computer Graphics Artist

This course may be helpful if you intend to become a Computer Graphics Artist. This role involves creating and manipulating digital images, often for use in films, video games, or other visual media. This course covers topics such as 2D drawings and animations, 3D geometric modeling and texture mapping. This course may be particularly useful if you are interested in a career as a Computer Graphics Artist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Graphics Artist

Visual Designer

This course may be helpful if you intend to become a Visual Designer. This role requires an understanding of how to create visually appealing and effective designs, often for websites, mobile apps, or other digital products. This course includes topics such as digital inking, pen-and-ink texture synthesis, and dynamic illustrations. These topics will provide you with a strong foundation in visual design principles and techniques.

See salaries and explore the career path for Visual Designer

Software Engineer

This course may be helpful if you intend to become a Software Engineer. This field involves designing, developing, and maintaining software systems, often for a variety of purposes and platforms. This course covers topics such as graphical user interfaces, 2D drawings and animations, and 3D geometric modeling. These topics may be useful if you are interested in a career as a Software Engineer.

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3D Modeler

This course may be helpful if you intend to become a 3D Modeler. This role involves creating and manipulating 3D models, often for use in films, video games, or other visual media. This course covers topics such as 3D geometric modeling and texture mapping. This course may be particularly useful if you are interested in a career as a 3D Modeler.

See salaries and explore the career path for 3D Modeler

Web Developer

This course may be helpful if you intend to become a Web Developer. This role involves designing and developing websites, often working with a team of other designers, programmers, and content creators. The course covers topics such as graphical user interfaces and interactive techniques. This course may be useful for a career as a Web Developer.

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UX Designer

This course may be helpful if you intend to become a UX Designer. This role involves designing and evaluating the user experience of websites, apps, and other digital products. The course covers topics such as graphical user interfaces and interactive techniques. This course may be useful for a career as a UX Designer.

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Technical Animator

This course may be helpful if you intend to become a Technical Animator. This role involves creating and animating 3D models, often for use in films, video games, or other visual media. This course covers topics such as character animations, spatial key framing, and procedural deformations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Animator