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Digital Design

4.2 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Based on 6 ratings
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Ravindra Goonetilleke and Sai-Kit Yeung

Digital Design is about designing in digital space so the created content can be displayed and seen on a digital device. With the availability of high computing power, designers can quickly create designs in digital space before actual deployment.

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Digital Design is about designing in digital space so the created content can be displayed and seen on a digital device. With the availability of high computing power, designers can quickly create designs in digital space before actual deployment.

In this online course, you will learn the fundamental concepts of a wide variety of digital design technology and you will have the opportunity to create your own digital designs and animate them as well. The course focuses on creating 3D objects using a computer-aided design package, creating real-life physical simulations, and then combining the two techniques to create rendered animations. It will also introduce virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) applications.

This course allows you to get hands-on experience with different design tools so that the various outputs can be combined in a systematic way. So get started to experience this excitement of creating your own designs now whether it be for continuing education or as a hobby.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Perform physical simulations of real-life situations that are expressed mathematically
  • Manipulate and animate static people so that they have realistic motions
  • Make digitized people interact with 3d objects
  • Apply your skills in a wide variety of applications such as manufacturing, robotics, movies, games, toys, and many others
  • At the end of the course, you will be able to:

Syllabus

Week 1: Computer-Aided Design Fundamentals of computer-aided design. Developing 3D digital models of various shapes.
Week 2: Computer Animation Basics Rigging a 3D model and creating simple computer animations using keyframing and particle systems.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Examines principles of design in a digital space, which is standard in a wide range of industries
Introduces the basics of rigging, animation, and rendering, which are essential techniques for creating digital designs
Builds a foundation in 3D design, including the use of computer-aided design software and creating realistic animations
Provides hands-on experience with industry-relevant design tools, enabling learners to create and animate their designs
Covers concepts in computer animation, which are highly relevant in a wide range of fields, including entertainment and engineering
Offers opportunities to apply design skills in real-world applications, such as manufacturing and robotics

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Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
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Reviews summary

Practical introduction to diverse digital design

According to learners, this course offers a broad introduction to digital design concepts and tools, covering areas from 3D modeling and animation to physical simulations and mixed reality. Students particularly appreciate the practical, hands-on exercises and software demonstrations, finding them key to applying concepts. While many feel it provides a solid foundational overview, some reviewers with prior experience felt certain topics could benefit from greater depth or more advanced techniques. Beginners occasionally noted challenges with software setup or technical prerequisites.
Provides a solid base, but lacks advanced depth.
"This course gives a really good foundation in digital design."
"Good for beginners getting a general understanding of the field."
"I felt it was a bit basic in some areas, could use more advanced content."
Covers a wide range of digital design topics.
"The course covers a lot of ground, from CAD to VR/AR, which is great for an overview."
"I liked getting an introduction to many different aspects of digital design."
"It touches on various areas like animation, simulation, and rendering."
Practical exercises and software demos are a strength.
"The practical exercises were very helpful for understanding the concepts."
"I really enjoyed the software demos, they showed exactly how to use the tools."
"Getting hands-on with the design software made the material much clearer."
Software setup can be difficult for some learners.
"Had some issues getting the required software installed and running correctly."
"Setting up the environment was the hardest part for me as a beginner."
"More detailed guidance on software installation would be helpful."

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 Digital Design with these activities:
Review the basics of computer-aided design (CAD)
Review the basics of computer-aided design (CAD) to refresh your knowledge before starting the course.
Browse courses on Computer-Aided Design
Show steps
  • Read a tutorial on the basics of CAD
  • Watch a video demonstration of CAD software
  • Try out a free CAD software program
Review key design principles
Brush up on fundamental design concepts that will be expanded upon in the course to deepen your understanding of digital design.
Browse courses on Design Principles
Show steps
  • Review articles and tutorials on design principles.
  • Analyze existing designs to identify and understand their application.
Review the fundamental concepts of 3D modeling
Review the fundamental concepts of 3D modeling to refresh your knowledge before starting the course.
Browse courses on 3D Modeling
Show steps
  • Read a book or article on the basics of 3D modeling
  • Watch a video tutorial on 3D modeling software
  • Create a simple 3D model using a free software program
15 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 18 activities
Review Blender
Blender has been in active development as an open source program for 3D modeling, animation and mixed reality creation. Being proficient in this software will enable you to keep up with the course lessons more easily.
Browse courses on Blender
Show steps
  • Re-familiarize yourself with the Blender interface and tools
  • Practice creating basic 3D models and shapes
  • Follow tutorials or online resources to learn specific Blender techniques
Create 3D Models
Creating 3D models will help you understand the fundamentals of computer-aided design and develop your skills in creating digital designs.
Browse courses on Computer-Aided Design
Show steps
  • Choose a 3D modeling software and learn its interface.
  • Follow tutorials and practice creating simple 3D objects.
  • Experiment with different modeling techniques and materials.
Follow a tutorial on creating a realistic 3D character
Follow a tutorial on creating a realistic 3D character to learn the techniques and best practices for character modeling.
Browse courses on 3D Modeling
Show steps
  • Choose a reference image or concept art for your character
  • Create a base mesh for your character
  • Sculpt the character's features
  • Add details and textures to the character
  • Rig the character for animation
Practice manipulating 3D objects
Gain proficiency in manipulating 3D objects within a digital environment, laying the groundwork for creating complex designs.
Browse courses on Computer-Aided Design
Show steps
  • Use a computer-aided design software to import and manipulate simple 3D objects.
  • Experiment with different tools and techniques for rotating, scaling, and positioning objects.
Practice animating keyframes
Practice animating keyframes to improve your animation skills.
Browse courses on Animation
Show steps
  • Create a simple 3D model
  • Set keyframes for the model's movement
  • Preview the animation and adjust the keyframes as needed
Join a study group or online forum
Engage with peers to discuss course concepts, share insights, and provide support throughout your learning journey.
Show steps
  • Join an online forum or study group dedicated to digital design.
  • Participate in discussions, ask questions, and share your own knowledge with others.
Learn Animation Techniques
Learning animation techniques will allow you to add movement and life to your digital designs, making them more engaging and dynamic.
Browse courses on Computer Animation
Show steps
  • Find online tutorials or courses on computer animation.
  • Practice keyframing and other animation techniques.
  • Experiment with different types of animations, such as character animation or motion graphics.
Create a 3D Simulation of a Physical Process
This project will allow you to apply the principles of computer animation and simulation to a scientific scenario.
Browse courses on Computer Animation
Show steps
  • Identify a physical process to simulate
  • Create a 3D model of the system
  • Define the physical parameters and constraints
  • Run the simulation and analyze the results
Develop a 3D model of a product or environment
Develop a 3D model of a product or environment to apply your skills in modeling, texturing, and rendering.
Browse courses on 3D Modeling
Show steps
  • Choose an object or environment to model
  • Gather reference materials
  • Create a 3D model of the object or environment
  • Texture and render the model
  • Present your model
Design and create a simple 3D model
Apply your understanding of design principles and 3D manipulation skills to create a basic 3D model, fostering hands-on experience and creativity.
Browse courses on 3D Modeling
Show steps
  • Sketch or conceptualize your design idea.
  • Use a computer-aided design software to create the basic structure of your 3D model.
  • Add details and textures to enhance the realism of your model.
Create a 3D animated short film
Create a 3D animated short film to apply your skills in 3D modeling, animation, and rendering.
Browse courses on 3D Animation
Show steps
  • Develop a storyboard and script
  • Create 3D models of characters and environments
  • Animate the characters and objects
  • Render the animation
  • Add sound effects and music
Explore VR and AR applications
Delve into the practical applications of VR and AR, expanding your knowledge of the potential uses of digital design in cutting-edge technologies.
Browse courses on Virtual Reality (VR)
Show steps
  • Research different VR and AR applications in various industries.
  • Follow tutorials to develop simple VR or AR experiences.
Develop Your Own Virtual Reality Environment
Developing your own virtual reality environment will challenge you to apply your skills in 3D modeling, animation, and programming to create a truly immersive and engaging experience.
Browse courses on virtual reality
Show steps
  • Learn the basics of VR development using a game engine like Unity or Unreal Engine.
  • Design and create your virtual environment, including 3D models, textures, and lighting.
  • Add interactive elements and gameplay mechanics to make your environment more engaging.
  • Test and refine your VR environment to ensure a smooth and immersive experience.
Design and develop a virtual reality experience
Design and develop a virtual reality experience to demonstrate your skills in VR development.
Browse courses on virtual reality
Show steps
  • Define the concept and goals of your VR experience
  • Create a prototype of your VR experience
  • Develop the full VR experience
  • Test and iterate on your VR experience
  • Publish and promote your VR experience
Compile a portfolio of your digital design projects
Showcase your skills and progress by compiling a portfolio of your digital design projects, providing a tangible representation of your learning.
Browse courses on Portfolio
Show steps
  • Gather your best digital design projects created throughout the course.
  • Create an online portfolio or website to present your work.

Career center

Learners who complete Digital Design will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Character Animator
A Character Animator gives life to 3D models by creating realistic animations. This course can help someone who wants to be a Character Animator because it includes instruction on animating static people to create lifelike movements.
See salaries and explore the career path for Character Animator
Technical Animator
A Technical Animator uses computing power to create computer-generated imagery and motion graphics. This course can help someone who wants to become a Technical Animator because it gives the foundational knowledge of keyframing and particle systems necessary to get started in the field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Animator
3D Modeler
A 3D Modeler creates 3D models of objects. This course can help someone who wants to become a 3D Modeler because it provides the fundamentals of creating 3D models using computer-aided design software.
See salaries and explore the career path for 3D Modeler
Simulation Engineer
A Simulation Engineer uses computer science to model and simulate the behavior of complex systems. This course can help prepare someone for a career in Simulation Engineering because it helps build a foundation in performing physical simulations by using mathematical expressions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation Engineer
Robotics Engineer
A Robotics Engineer designs, builds, and tests robots. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Robotics Engineer because it includes instruction on creating physical simulations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Robotics Engineer
Simulation Developer
A Simulation Developer designs and develops simulations. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Simulation Developer because it provides the foundation for performing physical simulations using mathematical expressions and programming.
See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation Developer
Augmented Reality Developer
An Augmented Reality Developer creates and develops augmented reality experiences. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become an Augmented Reality Developer because it introduces augmented reality applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Augmented Reality Developer
Virtual Reality Engineer
A Virtual Reality Engineer designs and develops virtual reality experiences. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Virtual Reality Engineer because it includes instruction on virtual reality and its applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Virtual Reality Engineer
Product Designer
A Product Designer creates and develops new products. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Product Designer because it provides some of the foundational skills, such as computer-aided design, that are necessary in this field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Designer
Lighting Artist
A Lighting Artist specializes in the placement of lights in 3D scenes. This course may be useful to someone who wants to become a Lighting Artist because it helps build a foundation in setting up a virtual scene with different 3D geometries, material properties, and lighting conditions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Lighting Artist
Gameplay Animator
A Gameplay Animator creates animations for video games. This course may be useful to someone who wants to become a Gameplay Animator because it provides the foundation for creating animations, rigging models, and using keyframing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Gameplay Animator
Industrial Designer
An Industrial Designer creates and develops concepts and products that are both useful and aesthetically pleasing. This course may be useful to someone who wants to become an Industrial Designer because it includes some of the foundational skills, such as computer-aided design, that are necessary in this field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Industrial Designer
Manufacturing Engineer
A Manufacturing Engineer designs, builds, and tests the systems used to manufacture products. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Manufacturing Engineer because it provides the foundation for developing simulations that can be used to improve manufacturing processes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Manufacturing Engineer
Technical Director
A Technical Director solves technical problems in filmmaking. This course may be useful to someone who wants to be a Technical Director because it covers setting up virtual scenes. This knowledge would be useful on a film set that uses computer-generated effects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Director
Video Game Designer
A Video Game Designer creates the overall concept for a video game. This course provides some of the skills needed for the job, such as creating animations and using physics simulations, but for a comprehensive guide to Video Game Design, another course may be more helpful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Video Game Designer

Reading list

We've selected eight 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 Digital Design.
Cover image
Python
Save
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive overview of computer graphics. It covers a wide range of topics, from computer-aided design to computer animation, and it provides a good foundation for the entire course.
Game Development Using Python
Paperback
$$
Python 3: Pocket Primer
Paperback
$$
Python: An Introduction to Programming
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Computer Animation
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer animation algorithms and techniques. It covers a wide range of topics, from keyframing to particle systems, and it provides a good foundation for the computer animation portion of the course.
Computer Animation: Algorithms and Techniques
Hardcover
$$$
Computer Animation: Algorithms and Techniques (The...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Computer Animation: Algorithms and Techniques (The...
Hardcover
$$$
Cover image
Real-Time Rendering
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of real-time rendering. It covers a wide range of topics, from real-time rendering algorithms to advanced rendering techniques, and it provides a good foundation for the real-time rendering portion of the course.
Real-Time Rendering, Fourth Edition
Hardcover
$$$
Real-Time Rendering
Hardcover
$$
Real-Time Rendering, Second Edition
Hardcover
$$
Real-Time Rendering, Fourth Edition
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Architecture in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of digital design principles and practices. It covers a wide range of topics, from computer-aided design (CAD) to computer-generated imagery (CGI), and it provides a good foundation for the course.
Architecture in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Paperback
Check
Architecture in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Thoughts on Interaction Design
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of interaction design. It covers a wide range of topics, from user experience to usability, and it provides a good foundation for the user experience design portion of the course.
Thoughts on Interaction Design
Paperback
$$
Thoughts on Interaction Design
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Art of 3D Computer Animation and Effects
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the art of 3D computer animation and effects. It covers a wide range of topics, from modeling to rendering, and it provides a good foundation for the computer animation and rendering portions of the course.
The Art of 3D Computer Animation and Effects
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Computer Graphics Programming in OpenGL with C++
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer graphics programming in OpenGL with C++. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic OpenGL commands to advanced rendering techniques, and it provides a good foundation for the computer graphics programming portion of the course.
Computer Graphics Programming in OpenGL With C++
Hardcover
$$$
Computer Graphics Programming in OpenGL with C++
Hardcover
$$$
Computer Graphics Programming in OpenGL with C++
Hardcover
$$$
Cover image
3D Computer Graphics
Save
Provides a mathematical introduction to 3D computer graphics. It covers the fundamentals of 3D geometry, transformations, lighting, and rendering, and it provides a good foundation for the computer animation and rendering portions of the course.
3D Computer Graphics: A Mathematical Introduction...
Hardcover
$$$$
3D Computer Graphics: A Mathematical Introduction...
Kindle Edition
$$$

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Course image
Rating
4.2 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Effort
5 to 6 hours per week for 5 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Instructors
Ravindra Goonetilleke
Sai-Kit Yeung
Language
English
Transcript
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Examines principles of design in a digital space, which is standard in a wide range of industries
Introduces the basics of rigging, animation, and rendering, which are essential techniques for creating digital designs
Builds a foundation in 3D design, including the use of computer-aided design software and creating realistic animations
Provides hands-on experience with industry-relevant design tools, enabling learners to create and animate their designs
Covers concepts in computer animation, which are highly relevant in a wide range of fields, including entertainment and engineering
Offers opportunities to apply design skills in real-world applications, such as manufacturing and robotics
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