VISC 525 Senior Problems | Projects | Schedule | Resources
geoff mcfetridge
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of effective packaging design. Students will learn the essential skills required to create visually appealing, functional, and sustainable packaging solutions. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on projects, participants will develop a deep understanding of design concepts, materials, production processes, and branding strategies in the context of packaging.
Course Format (4 credit hours)
This class meets tuesdays and thursdays from 12:30-3:05pm.
Would you like to make an appointment with me?
Do so here: https://jeremyshellhorn.youcanbook.me
The course will be conducted through a combination of lectures, demos, group critiques, individual meetings and self-directed learning. Occassionally you will be asked to watch video or read a text prior to class to inform our discussio and exploration of packaging design.
Typically Tuesdays will serve as opportunites for whole class critiques and/or presentations on relevant concepts, design strategies and software/hardware demos. Thursdays will serve as individual meeting days, worktime and/or time to test ideas in the print/riso/laser labs.
Course Objectives
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Understand Packaging Principles and Concepts:
- Define the role of packaging in product branding, marketing,
& consumer engagement. - Explain the historical evolution of packaging design & its impact.
- Define the role of packaging in product branding, marketing,
- Apply Design Fundamentals to Packaging:
- Utilize design principles to create powerful visual designs.
- Present packaging designs with clear visual and written explanations that highlight design rationale and target audience considerations.
- Select and Implement Packaging Materials:
- Identify various packaging materials and their unique properties.
- Evaluate sustainable packaging practices and make informed choices in order to lessen environmental impact.
- Navigate Packaging Production Processes:
- Understand the stages of packaging production, including printing, die-cutting, and finishing techniques.
- Generate accurate dielines and templates for packaging structures using industry-standard software.
- Integrate Branding and Communication:
- Incorporate branding elements, such as logos, colors, and typography, into packaging design to establish brand identity.
- Demonstrate the ability to convey product information and differentiate products through packaging design.
- Apply Packaging Design to Industry Contexts:
- Create packaging solutions tailored to specific audiences & contexts, considering functional requirements and consumer expectations.
- Adapt design concepts to meet the needs of different products, such as food, cosmetics, electronics, etc.
- Create Packaging Design Projects for their Portfolio:
- Develop a portfolio showcasing a range of packaging design projects that demonstrate creativity, technical skills, and problem-solving abilities.
- Analyze and Critique Packaging Designs:
- Evaluate packaging designs critically based on design principles, functionality, branding alignment, and sustainability aspects.
- Provide constructive feedback to peers and incorporate feedback to refine and enhance own designs.
- Adhere to Ethical and Regulatory Considerations:
- Recognize ethical responsibilities in packaging design, including cultural sensitivity, social impact, and avoiding deceptive practices.
- Understand and apply relevant industry standards, regulations, and labeling requirements in packaging design.
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COURSE POLICIES
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Professionalism and Participation
In order to maximize your learning and growth as a designer in this class, active engagement with the coursework is essential. Adopt a serious attitude and be willing to go beyond the assigned tasks. Challenge yourself and embrace the philosophy of learning through hands-on experience. Design is a competitive yet rewarding profession, and this course is designed with that mindset. Expectations include diligent effort every day, not just for grades, but for personal development and skill enhancement.
To truly benefit from this course, it is important to approach it with curiosity, self-initiative, and a dedicated investment of time. The work we will be doing can be time-consuming, slow, occasionally frustrating, and involve repetitive tasks. Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself, actively participate, share ideas, and explore new possibilities. If this approach does not resonate with you, it may be worth discussing alternative course options with your advisor.
Effective verbal communication skills are paramount in conveying your ideas to clients and fellow design team members. During critiques, students are expected to come prepared to present their concepts, explain how their design form supports the underlying concept, and describe the process behind their ideas. Offering feedback to your peers is a privilege. Engaging in both giving and receiving feedback is beneficial. While you do not have to personally “like” someone else’s work, it is crucial to provide insightful commentary in a respectful and constructive manner.
During class, lectures, and demonstrations, it is required that you be working on things related to this class (not other classes), that you turn your phone to silent mode and refrain from distractions such as texting, social media, checking email....
A lack of professionalism can effectively lower your grade by a letter grade.
__ Attend class on time and stay throughout the whole class period
__ Prepared for every class
__ Participate in classroom discussions/crits
__ Use class time to work on projects for this class
__ Maintain a positive and open-minded attitude
__ Demonstrate deliberate self-disciplined and timely work habits
__ Progressively strive for and achieve the highest standards of quality
Course Materials, Supplies & Required Software
There is no required book for this course, but check the resources section for reccommended books, websites and articles I have curated for the course and have used to inform it’s design.
You should bring a kit of making tools to class or have access to them in a locker during class. Pencils, sketching/plain paper, post-its, xacto knife, scissors, tape (masking and double-sided), glue stick, sharpies, a ruler are standard analog design tools you should always carry.
School of Architecture & Design degree programs receive a personal license to Adobe Creative Cloud at no cost. ArcD majors do not need to purchase or renew Adobe Creative Suite at the KU Bookstore. Please follow this link for more information.
Imagery
To maintain integrity and respect copyright laws, it is crucial that you either create your own imagery or use images from the Public Domain whenever possible. If you are unable to create your own visuals, it is important to give proper attribution and credit when utilizing images from external sources. Remember to include attribution for any images sourced from the internet. An image online does not grant you automatic permission to use it—it is not a matter of “finders keepers.”
Plagiarism
It is mandatory that all work submitted for this class is original and created by you specifically for this semester and this class. Any instances where work is discovered to closely resemble material found online will be regarded as plagiarism. In such cases, appropriate sanctions will be implemented for all individuals involved in plagiarizing coursework. Plagiarism is a violation of the University Senate Rules and Regulations and will not be tolerated. Consequences may include failing the project, disqualification from the VisCom Sophomore Review, course failure, departmental suspension, or expulsion from the university. Plagiarism is reported to the Department Chair, the Dean’s office and to the University and is a form of academic misconduct.
Important note about Artificial Intelligence: If AI is used to help create text or images in this project (or any project in any of your classes), it is imperative to be transparent and honest about its involvement. AI can be embraced and explored as a tool used to enhance the creative process. Maintaining mastery over the AI and making necessary alterations to all final deliverables is crucial. Failure to inform us that you are using AI at any point in the project will be considered plagiarism, and strict consequences will follow.
As we navigate this learning process, we must remember to exercise responsible AI usage and ensure that AI serves as a valuable assistant rather than a substitute for creativity and originality. Together, we can leverage AI to augment our process. Honesty and integrity could lead to a more insightful and ethical exploration of AI's potential in the creative domain.
Grading Policies and Criteria
This course is a mandatory requirement listed under the major studies section on your degree check sheet. And is part of the sophomore review. To progress to the next course in the sequence, it is necessary to achieve a grade of C (2.0) or higher. The final grade for each project will be determined by the collective assessment of several key components: Participation, Process, Exploration, Refinement, Final Product, and Craft.
A superior/excellent/exceeds expectations
B very good
C satisfactory / meets expectations
D unsatisfactory / did not meet expectations
F unacceptable
To achieve an “A” grade, it is crucial that your process, product, and participation surpass expectations. Merely completing the project requirements will not be sufficient to earn an “A.” It is not merely a matter of fulfilling basic criteria. Every one of you has the potential to earn an “A.” Strive for excellence consistently. Meeting the minimum expectations by being prepared and fulfilling assigned tasks corresponds to a "satisfactory" effort, which equates to a “C” grade. Remember, a "B" grade reflects Very Good!
Late Projects
All projects and assignments are due on the date given and due at the beginning of class. Late projects will be penalized by lowering the project grade by one full letter grade. After three days, late projects will no longer be accepted.
The Purpose of Critique
Critique is one of the most valuable parts of formal design education. It is also one of the most difficult aspects of the design school experience. It is a collaborative activity that takes quite a bit of time to learn — both in terms of how to give feedback, and how to accept feedback.
- How can you help your classmates be the best designer they can be?
- Please be collegial classmates and motivate each other to excellence every day.
- Critique is not a competition; it is an opportunity for everyone to learn and grow.
- Critique is a collaborative activity that requires time to learn how to give and accept feedback. Both givers and receivers of critique play a role in creating a positive and constructive environment.
- Pay attention to critiques of other students’ work as there is much to learn beyond your own projects.
- Understand the goals of the critique, whether it is exploring concepts, refining details, or celebrating project completion.
- Critiques should be honest but not cruel or disrespectful.
- The purpose of critique is to improve the work.
- A critique should leave you empowered to improve your work.
Expected Workload
As required by NASAD Accreditation. For Studio Courses 1 credit hour carries 3 hours of homework. For a 3-credit course that is a minimum of 9 hours of homework a week. For a 4-credit-hour course a minimum of 12 hours of homework a week.
If you have a job that requires you to work more than 20 hours a week you will find it difficult to succeed in your studios. Please let your instructors know if you are working full-time.
Attendance
Students are required to attend class. Please be in class on time and remain for the entire period. Attendance will be taken at the beginning of each class period. Three late marks will equal one absence. A total of 3 absences will be allowed for any reason, including excused absences. On your 4th absence, your grade will drop by one full letter grade, or you may be asked to withdraw from the course.
In the event of any absence, students are still responsible for obtaining all information and materials from the class period and completing all assignments on time. It is your sole responsibility to find out about any new work assigned during your absence.
If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or any contagious cold, it is imperative that you refrain from attending any KU classroom or entering any KU space. In such cases, you have the option to participate in class remotely. If you have symptoms, suspect exposure, or have been identified through contact tracing by healthcare professionals, it is crucial to follow the isolation guidelines provided by the CDC or KU policy.
If you miss a class for any reason, you must obtain the information and materials you may have missed. It is not the instructor’s duty to provide you with the missed content.
Medically Related Absences
Because of the fast-paced, project-based nature of studio curricula, absences as the result of a medical condition will count in the same way as non-medical absences. Excessive absence for any reason, as outlined in this policy, is irreparably detrimental to a student’s ability to succeed in our studio curriculum.
Religious Holidays
Students who plan to observe religious holidays should inform instructors of the day(s) they intend to be absent due to religious observance. You should inform the instructor before the absence. Doing so allows enough time for you and your professor to prepare accordingly and/or have a discussion to “reach a mutually acceptable solution.” https://diversity.ku.edu/religious-observances
Student Access Center
The Student Access Center (SAC) coordinates academic accommodations and services for all eligible KU students with disabilities. If you have a disability for which you wish to request accommodation and have not contacted SAC, please do so as soon as possible. They are located at 22 Strong Hall and can be reached at 785-864-4064 (V/TTY). Information about their services can be found at access.ku.edu. Please contact me privately in regard to your needs in this course.
Name and Pronouns
Everyone has the right to be referred to with their preferred name and pronouns. An opportunity to share names and pronouns will be provided on the first day of class. If there are any changes during the semester, feel free to inform me. The instructor and students in this course are expected to respect each other’s identities, names, and pronouns. If someone makes a mistake or misgenders another student, a brief apology and self-correction are appreciated. In case you feel that your identities are not being respected, including by the instructor, please let me know about the issue. If you prefer not to share with me directly, you can consider reaching out to other resources like the Center for Sexuality & Gender Diversity or the Office of Civil Rights civilrights@ku.edu and Title IX.
Students who are in the process of updating their name at KU can refer to the Center for Sexuality & Gender Diversity’s “Name & Gender Marker Changes at KU” guide at sgd.ku.edu/name.
Diversity & Inclusion
The University of Kansas supports an inclusive learning environment in which diversity and individual differences are understood, respected, and appreciated. We believe that all students benefit from training and experiences that will help them to learn, lead, and serve in an increasingly diverse society. All members of our campus community must accept the responsibility to demonstrate civility and respect for the dignity of others. Expressions or actions that disparage a person’s or group’s race, ethnicity, nationality, culture, gender, gender identity/expression, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or disability are contrary to the mission of the University. We expect that KU students, faculty, and staff will promote an atmosphere of respect for all members of our KU community. This is an inclusive classroom. At KU, administrators, faculty, and staff are committed to the creation and maintenance of “inclusive learning” spaces. These are classrooms, labs, and other places of learning where you will be treated with respect and dignity and where all individuals are provided with an equitable opportunity to participate, contribute, and succeed.
It is likely you may not agree with everything that is said or discussed in the classroom. Courteous behavior and responses are expected at all times. When you disagree with someone, be sure that you make a distinction between criticizing an idea and criticizing the person. Expressions or actions that disparage a person’s or race, ethnicity, nationality, culture, gender, gender identity/expression, religion, sexual orientation, age, disability, or marital, parental, or veteran status are contrary to the mission of this course and will not be tolerated.
Sense of Community
The members of the School of Architecture and Design’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Committee are here to provide an equitable community for all. This sense of community is achieved by knowing that we are here to support all the members of our school. If you need someone other than your immediate network of professors and peers to talk to, please reach out to us. We will be available for anyone who needs support or advice, or would like to know about university resources, professional paths, or challenges and strengths of our programs, we are here and willing to meet. Please reach out to Prof. Kapila D. Silva, Associate Dean for DEIB (kapilads@ku.edu)
Non-Discrimination, Equal Opportunity
As a premier learning and research institution, the University of Kansas must continuously address issues of diversity and multiculturalism. Every member of the university community is expected to engage in action that leads toward the development of a more democratic and inclusive community. Proactive efforts towards increasing diversity and the elimination of discrimination are necessary in our university. The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in the university's programs and activities. Retaliation is prohibited. Contact the Director of the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX, civilrights@ku.edu, Room 1082, Dole Human Development Center.
ArcD STUDENT HUB
Weekly announcements, advising info, policies and resources, job postings, internships, scholarship opportunities, upcoming electives, and study abroad trips, student organizations information and events! www.arcd.ku.edu/current-students
Connect with your Academic Advisors
Real-time conversations with an academic advisor are the fastest path to assistance and support. The ARC/D advisors offer two kinds of real-time availability: 1. Virtual Drop-In Hours - Any undergraduate student is welcome at virtual drop-in hours and 2. Scheduled In-Person Appointments. Check out the website for more information or to set up an appointment. www.arcd.ku.edu/advising
KU Resources
KU Statement on Diversity and Inclusion
Mandatory Reporting
Racial and Ethnic Harassment Policy
Sexual Harassment
Nondiscrimination, Equal Opportunity
Student Code of Conduct
The student conduct process exists to protect the rights of the community. The rights and privileges of the individual are components of a community. These rights are protected with vigilance equal to the enforcement of rules and procedures. When a student is unable to conform to their behavior to community expectations and values, the student should no longer share in the privilege of participating in this community. http://studentconduct.ku.edu/
RESPECT:
You are expected to show positive regard for each other.
COMMUNITY:
You are expected to build and enhance a community of your peers.
INTEGRITY: You are expected to exemplify honesty, honor, and respect for the truth in all your dealings.
RESPONSIBILITY:
In relation to student rights, you are given and accept a high level of responsibility to self, to others and the community.
You are expected to show positive regard for each other.
COMMUNITY:
You are expected to build and enhance a community of your peers.
INTEGRITY: You are expected to exemplify honesty, honor, and respect for the truth in all your dealings.
RESPONSIBILITY:
In relation to student rights, you are given and accept a high level of responsibility to self, to others and the community.
Academic Misconduct
Academic misconduct will not be tolerated in this class. Academic misconduct by a student shall include, but not be limited to, disruption of classes; threatening an instructor or fellow student in an academic setting; giving or receiving of unauthorized aid on examinations, reports or other assignments; knowingly misrepresenting the source of any academic work; unauthorized changing of grades; unauthorized use of University approvals or forging of signatures; plagiarizing of another's work; or otherwise acting dishonestly.
Disruptive Behavior: The scope and content of the material included in this course are defined by the instructor in consultation with the responsible academic unit. While the orderly exchange of ideas, including questions and discussions prompted by lectures, discussion sessions and laboratories, is viewed as a normal part of the educational environment, the instructor has the right to limit the scope and duration of these interactions. Students who engage in disruptive behavior, including persistent refusal to observe boundaries defined by the instructor regarding inappropriate talking, discussions, and questions in the classroom or laboratory may be subject to discipline for non-academic misconduct for disruption of teaching or academic misconduct. https://policy.ku.edu/governance/USRR#art2sect7
All academic misconduct is reported to the Department Chair, the Dean’s office and to the University. Consequences may include course failure, departmental suspension, or expulsion from the university.
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LIST OF POLICIES AND RESOURCES
https://arcd.ku.edu/policies-and-resources
THE KU WRITING CENTER
Writers need feedback, sounding boards, and other people to coach them while they compose. That is where the KU Writing Center comes in. It is a place for productive talk about writing, with trained peer consultants to help you brainstorm, draft, and revise your projects. https://writing.ku.edu/
UNIVERSITY ACADEMIC SUPPORT CENTERS
University Academic Support Centers provides a variety of academic support programs designed to support learning for all KU students. https://academicsupport.ku.edu/
ACADEMIC LEARNING CENTER
Academic Learning Center offers many services and programs to assist students in their academic success and to enhance their collegiate experience at KU. https://learning.ku.edu/
COUNSELING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES
CAPS Personal Counseling Services can help students with issues related to adjusting to college and other psychological, interpersonal, and family problems. Individual sessions, group sessions and psychiatric services are available. https://caps.ku.edu/
CAMPUS AND COMMUNITY PARTNERS AND RESOURCES
http://www.ulifeline.org/UKansas/get_help_now
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UNIVERSITY POLICIES
Academic Misconduct
Change of Grade
Commercial Note-Taking
Commitment to Integrity and Ethical Conduct
Diversity and Inclusion
KBOR Statement on Free Expression
Mandatory Reporting
Nondiscrimination, Equal Opportunity, and Affirmative Action
Racial and Ethnic Harassment Policy
Sexual Harassment
Student Rights and Responsibilities
Weapons, Including Firearms