Type and Visual Organization

Overview

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By the end of this course, learners will understand how type is used to effectively communicate meaning and how specific methods of visual organization engage viewers. To obtain these skills we will learn more about and offer instruction in typesetting, layout design, and using design thinking to create comprehensive campaigns. The final project in this course emphasizes effective visual communication with a focus on typographic and informational hierarchy to practice the concept development process.

Syllabus

Typography History and Terminology

This first module focuses on preparing you for the effective use of type in visual communication. To get started, we will cover the history of type and evolution of fonts. Then we will learn about the anatomy of letterforms and identify characteristics of type styles and families. By the end of the various lessons and videos, you should be able to identify and have a list of key typographical terms to use as reference for projects in this specialization.

Typography Hierarchy and Layout

According to the Oxford dictionary, hierarchy is “an arrangement or classification of things according to relative importance.” When it comes to communicating information, good hierarchy entices a viewer to read the items on a page and follow an intended visual flow. Hierarchy not only provides order to the page, but it also can assist in creating visual excitement to the layout. In this module, we will be looking at the three levels of typographic hierarchy: the main heading, sub-heading and body copy. We will also look at how placement of design elements can help or hinder visual communication.

Typography Programs and Brainstorming

We will end this specialization by focusing on ways to use various typography platforms and find creative inspiration. As covered in the previous modules, knowing general typesetting vocabulary and rules will be helpful for your future reference. This module will now take those terms and apply them to certain situations to help capture a mood or visual contrast with typography. We will also reflect on the various brainstorming activities, in hopes to answer the following questions: Why do we brainstorm? What techniques could you use for upcoming job tasks in this or life in general? And where can you find inspiration?