MARYLAND HIGHER EDUCATION COMMMISSION ACADEMIC PROGRAM PROPOSAL PROPOSAL FOR: X X NEW INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM WITHIN EXISTING RESOURCES Montgomery College Institution Submitting Proposal Fall 2014 Projected Implementation Date Associate of Applied Science Award to be Offered Digital Animation Title of Proposed Program 50 0102 Suggested HEGIS Code Suggested CIP Code Communication Arts Technologies Department of Proposed Program Professor Edward Riggs Name of Department Head Dr. DeRionne Pollard President/Chief Executive Approval Signature and Date Resolution Number: 13-06-063 Approved by Governing Board Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 1
Academic Program Proposal From Degree-Granting Institutions Authorized to Operate in the State of Maryland A. Centrality to institutional mission statement and planning priorities: 1. Provide a description of the program, including each area of concentration (if applicable), and how it relates to the institution s approved mission. Program Title: Digital Animation Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree Animation is widely used in broadcast media, gaming and simulation, motion graphics, web design, forensics, and medical technologies. As the animation industry grows, so does the need for qualified professionals. Students in the Digital Animation program will explore animation concepts and gain hands-on experience using industry standard hardware and software and motion capture systems. This curriculum is designed to provide students with the skills necessary for entry or junior-level employment in the animation industry, or for possible transfer to another institution to further their education. The Digital Animation AAS degree directly aligns with Montgomery College s (MC) Mission: We empower our students to change their lives, and we enrich the life of our community. We are accountable for our results, by providing access to the skills necessary to succeed in the animation industry, achieve employment and flourish professionally. Additionally, the department measures our students success through curriculum alignment initiatives. Our dedicated faculty and staff make every effort to know our students and empower them toward successful career endeavors and to make the transition from student to professional artist. 2. Explain how the proposed program supports the institution s strategic goals and provide evidence that affirms it is an institutional priority. The Digital Animation degree aligns with the strategic planning initiatives set forth by the college. Specifically, the program works to support the strategic goal to: Maximize access, retention and student success. The animation program, as part of the Communication Arts Technologies (CAT) department received a grant to promote programs to and encourage participation from female learners. Our staff and faculty are sensitive to and support the needs of all our students. The animation program also supports the academic initiative to: Strengthen and enhance internal and external collaboration and partnerships. CAT continually develops relationships with professionals for insight into market demands, strengthening student portfolios and opportunities for internships, employment and other learning and career opportunities. Finally, this program works to: Promote excellence, accountability and continuous learning. The program has been designed to create the best possible learning environment for students, with state-of-the-art technology, expert faculty and supportive staff. Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 2
Further, the Digital Animation AAS aligns with the comprehensive institutional 2020 themes of: Educational Excellence, Access, Affordability and Success, Economic Development, Community Engagement, Assessment and Institutional Effectiveness. While differentiated from those already in place at MC, this program aligns with other successful, high-student-interest programs including Graphic Design, Illustration, and Gaming. Students will be able to explore their passion for animation. B. Adequacy of curriculum design and delivery to related learning outcomes consistent with Regulation.10 of this chapter: 1. Provide a list of courses with title, semester credit hours and course descriptions, along with a description of program requirements. Digital Animation AAS Program Requirements This curriculum is designed to provide students with the skills necessary for junior or entry-level employment in the animation industry, or for transfer to another institution. Animation is widely used in broadcast media, gaming and simulation, motion graphics, web design, forensics, and medical technologies. As the animation industry grows so does the need for qualified professionals. Students in this program will explore animation concepts and gain hands-on experience using industry standard hardware and software and motion capture systems. First Semester ARTT 100 Drawing I (Arts distribution) 3 CMAP 125 Introduction to Flash 4 ENGL 101 Introduction to College Writing* 3 GDES 120 Introduction to Digital Art 4 GDES 134 Introduction to Illustration 3 Semester Total: 17 Second Semester ARTT 204 Figure Drawing 3 GDES 140 Introduction to Animation 4 English foundation 3 Health foundation 1 Mathematics foundation 3 Semester Total: 14 Third Semester GDES 216 Illustrator for Vector Graphics 4 GDES 240 Animation 2: 3-D Modeling 4 Behavioral and social sciences distribution 3 Speech foundation 3 Semester Total: 14 Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 3
Fourth Semester ARRT 102 Design Studio: 2-Dimensional 3 GDES 242 Animation 3: Motion Capture 4 TVRA 110 Digital Video Editing 3 Natural sciences distribution with lab 4 Elective ** 1 Semester Total: 15 Total Credit Hours 60 * ENGL 101, if needed for ENGL 102/103. Otherwise, choose from program electives. Students whose focus is on Gaming should select from the following program electives: CMAP 190, CMAP 290, or CMAP 225. All others may select from any of the following program electives: CMAP 190, CMAP 290, CMAP 225, GDES 136, GDES 212, GDES 216, and GDES 218. ** Students should select between GDES 269 or GDES 285. List of courses with title, semester credit hours and course descriptions ARTT 100 Drawing I (ARTD) 3 semester hours An introduction to drawing and creative visual problem solving. Emphasis is on the analysis and exploration of basic drawing techniques in the visual interpretation of natural and fabricated forms. Students will be introduced to a variety of drawing media. (ARTD) Two hours lecture, four hours studio each week. ARTT 102 Design Studio: 2-Dimensional 3 semester hours An introduction to the elements and principles of visual expression with an emphasis on twodimensional form. Students will explore a wide range of conceptual approaches and media to develop critical visual thinking and the capacity to engage in creative problem solving. An interdisciplinary, cross-cultural approach will be stressed to connect the formal and conceptual elements of visual expression within the context of both historical and contemporary visual culture. Two hours lecture, four hours studio each week Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 4
ARTT 204 Figure Drawing 3 semester hours An introduction to figure drawing. Emphasis is placed on the problems involved in the visual interpretation of the human figure as a separate study, and in relation to its environment. Students will utilize a variety of drawing media. PREREQUISITE: ARTT 100 or consent of department. Two hours lecture, four hours studio each week CMAP 125 Introduction to Flash 4 semester hours A survey of some of the predominant Web animation applications and technologies, such as Flash and ActionScript. This course begins with an overview of drawing and animation and concludes with an introduction to scripting for Web interactivity and game development. Other Web enhancement applications may be taught depending on changes in technology. PREREQUISITE: None, but previous computer experience strongly recommended. Assessment level: READ 120. Four hours each week. ENGL 101 Introduction to College Writing 3 semester hours An introduction to college writing. The first of two sequential freshman composition courses, this course emphasizes the process of critical thinking, reading, and writing. Student writing progresses from a personal to an academic perspective. Students write for different audiences and purposes using a variety of rhetorical strategies. Students write in response to reading and are introduced to standard documentation procedures. Students are required to submit a final portfolio that meets department requirements. PREREQUISITE: Placement through assessment testing, successful completion of Basic English (ENGL 001 or ENGL 002 with a grade of A), or completion of EL 104 with a grade of C or better. Assessment level: READ 120. Three hours each week. GDES 120 Introduction to Digital Art 4 semester hours Creative use of the computer as a design tool and illustrative medium. Topics include elementary digital techniques as they relate to principles of design, color, composition, and spatial relationships. Students will create a series of illustrations involving freehand and technical drawing, rendering and composition using traditional and digital tools. Two hours lecture, four hours laboratory each week. GDES 134 Introduction to Illustration 3 semester hours Introduction to illustrative drawing and painting, traditional and digital media. Topics include units on drawing from observation, basic composition, conceptualizing, visual narrative and sequential storytelling and output for print and interactive media, the employment market, and business practices. PREREQUISITE: ARTT 100 or consent of department. Two hours lecture, three hours laboratory each week. Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 5
GDES 140 Introduction to Animation 4 semester hours An introduction to 2-D animation. Topics include a brief history of animation, principles of 2-D animation, use of storyboards, 2-D animation techniques, and the employment market and business practices. PREREQUISITES: CAMP 125 and GD 120. Two hours lecture, four hours laboratory each week. GDES 216 Illustrator for Vector Graphics 4 semester hours An in-depth study of vector graphics creation. Students design, create, and manipulate images for integration in publication layout and design, Web output, use in other software packages, or immediate output. Topics include vector imaging tools, technical illustration, bitmap to vector conversion, typography, and output considerations. PREREQUISITE: None, but previous computer experience is necessary. Two hours lecture, four hours laboratory each week. GDES 240 Animation 2: 3-D Modeling 4 semester hours An introduction to 3-D animation. Topics include principles of 3-D animation, virtual environments, modeling, image enhancement and 3-D animation techniques. PREREQUISITE: GDES 140. Two hours lecture, four hours laboratory each week GDES 242 Animation 3: Motion Capture 4 semester hours The study of motion capture systems and character development as it applies to the production of animation, gaming, and video. Students will gain practical experience in the use of motion capture technology to collect real-time data. Following data capture, students will transfer the information to a computer system using 3-D software where it will be manipulated, enhanced, and assigned to a character. PREREQUISITE: GDES 240. Two hours lecture, three hours laboratory each week TVRA 110 Digital Video Editing 3 semester hours An introduction to the equipment and procedures used to manipulate video and audio using professional nonlinear editing software. Hands-on projects allows students to create, mix, and edit video and still and animated images and sounds into presentations suitable for visual arts, educational, and corporate use. Assessment levels: ENGL 101/101A, READ 120. Two hours lecture, three hours laboratory each week. Students are required to take the general education requirements of English foundation, health foundation, speech foundation, math foundation, behavioral and social science distribution, and natural science with lab distribution. The specific courses vary according to individual student needs and interests. Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 6
2. Describe the educational objectives and intended student learning outcomes. Educational Objectives & Student Learning Outcomes # 1 2 3 4 5 Upon completion of this program a student will be able to Apply and incorporate the elements and principles of design within digital graphic images and animation Demonstrate visual problem solving that employs appropriate technical skills and techniques. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the history of digital art and animation. Use industry standard hardware and software to produce and manipulate digital images and animation. Develop a script and prepare a storyboard for 2- dimensional and 3-dimensional animation. Course(s) in the program that support program outcomes (designator & number) ARTT 102, GDES 120, GDES 134, GDES 216, GDES 140, GDES 240, GDES 242 ARTT 100, ARTT 205, CMAP 125, GDES 120, GDES 134, GDES 216, GDES 140, GDES 240 GDES 120, GDES 140, GDES 134 CMAP 125, GDES 120, GDES 140, GDES 240, GDES 242 ARTT 100, ARTT 205, GDES 134, GDES 140, GDES 240, GDES 242 6 Analyze and critique graphic images and animation. GDES 120, GDES 140, GDES 240, GDES 242 7 Develop a portfolio representative of the material and techniques studied, suitable for employment or transfer to another institution. GDES 140, GDES 240, GDES 242 8 Demonstrate general education competencies English Foundation, Mathematics foundation, Speech foundation, Health foundation, ARTT 100, Behavioral & social sciences distribution, Natural sciences distribution with lab Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 7
3. Discuss how general education requirements will be met, if applicable. General Education Requirements Summary The following general education courses are required for students to graduate with the Digital Animation AAS degree and meet the external standards set forth in COMAR and Montgomery Colleges s (MC) internal requirements. General Education Requirements MHEC Requirements MC Requirements Credits in Program Arts/Humanities 3 ARTT 100 3 English Foundation 3 3 3 Health Foundation 1-3 3 Math Foundation 3 3 3 Speech Foundation 3 3 Behavioral & Social Sciences 3 3 3 Distribution Natural Science with Lab Distribution 4 4 4 Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 8
4. Identify any specialized accreditation or graduate certification requirements for this program and its students. N/A 5. If contracting with another institution or non-collegiate organization, provide a copy of the written contract. N/A C. Critical and compelling regional or Statewide need as identified in the State Plan: Statewide Plan Goal #1 Maintain and strengthen a system of postsecondary education institutions recognized nationally for academic excellence and effectiveness in fulfilling the educational needs of students and the economic and societal development needs of the state and the nation. The Digital Animation AAS degree provides students with knowledge and skills necessary for the expanding animation job market, thereby contributing to their professional success in this area. Additionally, students are optimally positioned to transfer to quality four-year programs after earning the Digital Animation AAS degree. The degree provides enhanced opportunities for student completion for those passionate about animation and the digital arts industry. D. Quantifiable & reliable evidence and documentation of market supply & demand in the region and State: 1. Present data and analysis projecting market demand and the availability of openings in a job market to be served by the new program. Data from Montgomery College s Career Coach (sourcing from valuable data sources, like Computer Occupations) indicates very positive job growth for careers, which necessitate the specific skills taught in our Animation Degree Program. Below, two very specific job areas are highlighted: (1) Multimedia Artist and Animator as well as (2) Video Game Designer. The information below, in addition to being market specific, identifies numbers for the region (50 miles from the 20850 zip code, which is the midpoint of Montgomery College s three campuses.) Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 9
Job Area: (1) Multimedia Artist and Animator 1,638 Employed in your area 73 Estimated annual job openings 452 Approaching retirement age Full Listing: https://montgomerycollege.emsicareercoach.com/#action=loadoccupation Data&Search=animation&OccupationTags=&EdLevel=all&WageLimit=0 &CourseCategory=0&CourseLocation=0&SearchType=occupation&OccI D=27-1014.00 Job Area: (2) Video Game Designer 31,052 Employed in your area 1,026 Estimated annual job openings 6,225 Approaching retirement age Full Listing: https://montgomerycollege.emsicareercoach.com/#action=loadoccupationdat a&search=animation&occupationtags=&edlevel=all&wagelimit=0&cour secategory=0&courselocation=0&searchtype=occupation&occid=15-1199.11 Further, at the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) website, the numbers for the state of Maryland at large for employment in animation sectors is positive: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, favorable job growth for animators is expected over the next 7 years: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition, Multimedia Artists and Animators, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/arts-and-design/multimedia-artists-andanimators.htm http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes271014.htm Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 10
2. Discuss and provide evidence of market surveys that clearly provide quantifiable and reliable data on the educational and training needs and the anticipated number of vacancies expected over the next 5 years. Animation careers are expected to raise nearly ten percent by 2024 in the DCmetropolitan area according to the O*NET Occupation Report. Montgomery County, MD Top Compatible Occupations O*NET Occupation Median Hourly Earnings 2013 Jobs 2013-2023 Change 2013-2023 Estimated Annual Openings Compat. Index Video Game Designers (15-1199.11) $51.98 2,855 67 57 91 Please Note the Data Sources and Calculations for the above chart information. State Data Sources This report uses state data from the following agencies: Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation, Office of Labor Market Analysis and Information Educational Attainment Data EMSI's educational attainment numbers are based on Census 1990, Census 2000, the Current Population Survey, and EMSI's demographic data. By combining these sources, EMSI interpolates for missing years and projects data at the county level. Educational attainment data cover only the population aged 25 years or more and indicate the highest level achieved. Competency Data The competency data in this report is taken directly from the O*NET database. 3. Data showing the current and projected supply of prospective graduates. The below table shows the graduation rates for the previously offered gaming track awarded through the Computer Applications Department at Montgomery College. The Digital Animation AAS degree both replaces and improves upon this track with more focus, a broader scope and a market-demanded design-centric approach to the curriculum. Therefore, we project an increase in graduation rates. Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 11
Past Graduation Rates Computer Gaming and Simulation AA Degree Art and Animation Track Projected Graduation Rates Digital Animation AAS AY 2010 AY 2011 AY 2012 9 8 5 AY 2016 AY 2017 AY 2018 9 11 13 E. Reasonableness of program duplication: 1. Identify similar programs in the State and/or same geographical area. Discuss similarities and differences between the proposed program and others in the same degree to be awarded. Each of the programs listed below (see Examples 1-4) offer similarities and differences with that of MC s Digital Animation AAS degree. Each focuses on or includes animation/motion for the screen. However, with MC s degree, there is more of a specialization on 3D animation techniques and the artistry of graphics involved in the animation process, than the programs below offer. Additionally, MC offers Motion Capture, a sought-after skill, which none of the programs below offer. Our program would be both iterative and distinct from other programs in the state. Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 12
Example 1 Prince George s Community College (PGCC) offers certificate programs in: Animation /Hypermedia Certificate http://www.pgcc.edu/programs_and_courses/program_detail.aspx?programid=6 442462309 Animation and Screen-Based Design Certificate http://www.pgcc.edu/programs_and_courses/program_detail.aspx?programid=6 442465116 Example 2 Howard Community College (PGCC) offers an Associate s in Gaming and Simulation: http://www.howardcc.edu/academics/program_information/catalog/web/program s/artshumanities/gamingsimulationdesign.html Example 3 Community College of Baltimore County offers an Associate s Interactive Media: http://www.ccbcmd.edu/sait/adim/index.html Example 4 The University of Baltimore offers a Bachelor of Science in Simulation and Digital Entertainment: Bachelor of Science in Simulation and Digital Entertainment Information from: http://iat.ubalt.edu/sde/ 2. Provide justification for the proposed program. Digital animation is one of the most vital career fields in the entertainment industry with talented artists working on everything from animated films and television to video games and motion graphics, and most recently, law enforcement. Most animation positions require at least an associate's degree in animation or graphic design. Digital animation is not new, but the field is developing at a rapid pace. Montgomery College has the resources needed to provide students with the skills necessary for entry-level positions, or for transfer to four-year institutions. Graduates will help meet the current demand for entry-level animators by providing the degree they need. Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 13
F. Relevance to Historically Black Institutions (HBIs) 1. Discuss the program s potential impact on the implementation or maintenance of high-demand programs at HBI s. There will be no impact at the HBIs. 2. Discuss the program s potential impact on the uniqueness and institutional identities and missions of HBIs. There will be no impact at the HBIs. G. If proposing a distance education program, please provide evidence of the Principles of Good Practice (as outlined in COMAR 13B.02.03.22C). N/A H. Adequacy of faculty resources (as outlined in COMAR 13B.02.03.11). Name Mike Cantwell Jeff Golden Katie Hubley Patricia Johannsen Eric Swanson Martha Vaughan Terminal Degree Title and Field Academic title/rank Appointment/Status full-time, etc. M.F.A. Professor Full-time M.F.A. New Media Art M.A. Publications Design Assistant Professor Assistant Professor Full-time M.F.A. Professor Full-time B.F.A. Professor Part-time M.A Illustration Professor Courses GDES 120 GDES 140 GDES 120 GDES 140 Full-time TVRA 110 Full-time GDES 216 GDES 136 GDES 240 GDES 242 GDES 134 GDES 136 I. Adequacy of library resources (as outlined in COMAR 13B.02.03.12). The various library resources are adequate as the College is currently offering these courses. Further, Montgomery College does offer Inter-Library Loan, where the College can borrow books and journal articles from other colleges across the country on behalf of our students and faculty. Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 14
(Please note: The president s cover letter for this proposal includes the appropriate supportive statement.) J. Adequacy of physical facilities, infrastructure and instructional equipment (as outlined in COMAR 13B.02.03.13) Current facilities and equipment are adequate as these courses are currently being offered and the program is being implemented with existing institutional resources. (Please note: The president s cover letter for this proposal includes the appropriate supportive statement.) K. Adequacy of financial resources with documentation (as outlined in COMAR 13B.02.03.14) 1. Complete Table 1: Resources (pdf) and Table 2: Expenditure(pdf). Finance data(pdf) for the first five years of program implementation are to be entered. Figures should be presented for five years and then totaled by category for each year. 2. Provide a narrative rational for each of the resource category. If resources have been or will be reallocated to support the proposed program, briefly discuss the sources of those funds. Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 15
FINANCE DATA Finance data for the first five years of program implementation should be entered in Table 1 Resources and Table 2 Expenditures. Figures should be presented for five years and then totaled by category for each year. As an attachment, narrative explanation should accompany each table. Below is the format for both tables as well as directions for entering the data and writing the accompanying narrative. TABLE l: Resources 1. Reallocated Funds N/A 2. Tuition and Fee Revenue Please see Table 1. The Digital Animation AAS degree is replacing a similar track program previously offered in the Computer Science and Gaming AA degree. The enrollment projections are based on the number of students who took classes as part of that similar, previously-offered track. 3. Grants and Contracts No grants or external funding is needed to implement this program. 4. Other Sources No additional funds are needed to implement this program. 5. Total Year Please see Table 1. Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 16
TABLE 1: RESOURCES Resource Categories Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 1. Reallocated 0 0 0 0 0 Funds 2. Tuition/Fee Revenue (c+g below) 74,688 92,140 117,550 136,325 172,536 a. Number of F/T students 12 14 17 19 24 b. Annual Tuition/ 3,560 3,575 3,590 3,605 3,620 Fee Rate c. Total F/T Revenue (a x b) d. Number of P/T Students 42,720 50,050 61,030 68,495 86,880 18 23 30 35 43 e. Credit Hr. Rate 6 6 6 6 6 f. Annual Credit Hrs. tuition fee per hour g. Total P/T Revenue (d x e x f) 3. Grants, Contracts & Other External Sources 296 305 314 323 332 31,968 42,090 56,520 67,830 85,656 0 0 0 0 0 4. Other Sources 0 0 0 0 0 TOTAL 74,688 92,140 117,550 136,325 172,536 (Add 1 4) Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 17
TABLE 2: EXPENDITURES 1. Faculty (# FTE, Salary, and Benefits): Faculty Time Dedicated to Program Name Appointment/Status % of Time full-time, etc. to Program Mike Cantwell Full-time 20 Jeff Golden Full-time 20 Katie Hubley Full-time 20 Patricia Johannsen Full-time 20 Eric Swanson Part-time 10 Martha Vaughan Full-time 10 Benefits are budgeted at 25% of salaries for full-time faculty 2. Administrative Staff (# FTE, Salary, and Benefits): 0.1 FTE Administrative Staff is dedicated to program Benefits are budgeted at 30% 3. Support Staff (# FTE, Salary, and Benefits): 0.1 FTE Support Staff is dedicated to program. Benefits are budgeted at 30% 4. Equipment: No additional equipment is needed for the implementation of the program. 5. Library: Enter the anticipated expenditures for library materials directly attributable to the new program each year. There are no additional library resources required for this program. 6. New and/or Renovated Space: No additional facilities space is required. 7. Other Expenses: There are no additional expenses. Promotional materials are being funded by a grant. Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 18
8. Total Year: Please see Table 2. Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 19
TABLE 2 EXPENDITURES Please note: The Digital Animation AAS degree is replacing a similar track program previously offered in the Computer Science and Gaming AA degree. The courses are currently being taught. Expenditure Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Category 1. Faculty 99,413 102,395 105,467 108,631 111,809 (b + c below) a. # FTE 1 1 1 1 1 b. Total Salary 79,530 81,916 84,373 86,904 89,511 c. Total Benefits 19,883 20,479 21,094 21,727 22,379 2. Admin. Staff 13,000 13,390 13,792 14,205 14,631 (b + c below) a. # FTE 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 b. Total Salary 10,000 10,300 10,609 10,927 11,255 c. Total Benefits 3,000 3,090 3,183 3,278 3,376 3. Support Staff 3,900 4,017 4,138 4,262 4,390 (b + c below) a. # FTE 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 b. Total Salary 3,000 3,090 3,13 3,278 3,376 c. Total Benefits 900 927 955 984 1,014 4. Equipment 0 0 0 0 0 5. Library 0 0 0 0 0 6. New or Renovated Space 0 0 0 0 0 7. Other Expenses 0 0 0 0 0 8. TOTAL 116,313 119,802 123,397 127,098 130,911 (Add 1 7) Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 20
L. Adequacy of provisions for evaluation of program (as outlined in COMAR 13B.02.03.15). Montgomery College (MC) assesses and reviews programs are on a regular cycle. The program assessment process is facilitated by Montgomery College s Collegewide Assessment Team (CAT) and follows a cyclical 5-year schedule involving assessment planning, data collection, results review, program action plan development and implementation, re-assessment and data collection. The cyclic loop is closed by using the assessments results to improve teaching and learning experiences. All courses and programs at Montgomery College have clearly stated learning outcomes. The program learning outcomes are aligned with and are supported by the student learning outcomes of the individual courses that form a degree s curriculum. Program assessment tools vary. For the Digital Animation AAS degree, the assessment protocol is detailed below. Two main assessment tools for the Animation Degree are final projects from the following two courses. 1. GDES 240 Animation 2: 3-D Modeling Final Project o Students will create at least two complex models that interact with each other or other objects in a specific environment. Simpler models should be created as objects to enhance the scene (such as a table, books, rocks, etc.). The subject matter will be proposed by students with sketches to the instructor prior to beginning on the modeling. The final output may be either an animation or a series of still images with 1440 frame minimum. 2. GDES 242 Animation 3: Motion Capture o Two characters interacting in a defined environment but this time the majority of the animation won t be keyframed animation but will utilize a motion capture performance. In order to do that, they will need to be able to create a complex character and rig it for animation and have their performance translate to the rigged character using motion capture, along with being able to create environments and miscellaneous assets. These two projects assess all of outcomes in the program, which are listed below. # Upon completion of this program a student will be able to: Apply and incorporate the elements and principles of design within 1 a digital graphic images and animation Demonstrate visual problem solving that employs appropriate 2 technical skills and techniques. 3 Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the history of digital art and Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 21
animation. Use industry standard hardware and software to produce and 4 manipulate digital images and animation. Develop a script and prepare a storyboard for 2-dimensional and3-5 dimensional animation. 6 Analyze and critique graphic images and animation. Develop a portfolio representative of the material and techniques 7 studied, suitable for employment or transfer to another institution. 8 Demonstrate general education competencies. In addition to program assessment, MC s programs are reviewed as part of our Academic Area Review Process, a part of our comprehensive Collegewide Area Review. All academic areas along with their related degrees, certificates, letter of recognition, and courses are reviewed according to a five-year cycle. The review process includes an opportunity to examine and evaluate academic areas using multiple measures by reviewing student learning, student persistence and completion, instruction, course content and goals, sequence of courses, support services, resources, and facilities. Yearly status updates of the individual unit recommendations are required. Augmenting program assessment and review is the assessment of student learning outcomes for our general education courses. This assessment process is guided by the following key principles: faulty driven, course embedded, meaningful assessment, sustainable, and consistent, reliable results. Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 22
The general education course assessment plan process ( cyclic plan) is designed to ensure that students are given repeated and appropriate opportunities to practice and master Montgomery College s General Education competencies and areas of proficiency and that student performance data is used to improve instruction general education courses. The competencies include technological competency, critical analysis and reasoning, written and oral communication, information literacy, scientific and quantitative reasoning, areas and aesthetic awareness, personal, social and civic responsibilities. The process involves a 6-year cycle including data collection, data review, implementation of an n action plan, additional data collection, review data and update action plan, review again and update course assessment plan. The General Education Course Review provides useful information for ongoing data analysis and process improvement In addition to program and courses, MC s faculty undergoes an extensive and comprehensive evaluation process. This process includes student evaluations, a selfevaluation, a peer review, and classroom observations, (for evidence of planning, quality and variation of implementation of instruction, classroom management and climate, and mastery of subject matter) a department chair review, and a dean summary evaluation. The evaluation schedule varies from 1 year to every 5 years depending on faculty appointment type. Evaluations determine whether faculty members are demonstrating high quality performance in the teaching assignment, availability to students, and professional growth in their teaching area, meeting special objectives from preceding evaluations and demonstrating substantial progress in service to their campus, College, and / or community. The purpose of performance reviews are to promote the highest teaching techniques, knowledge of subject matter encourage the highest quality performance by faculty, encourage professional growth and development of faculty, assess strengths and weaknesses in faculty performance, and assess service to the College community. M. Consistency with the State s minority student achievement goals (as outlined in COMAR 13B.02.03.05 and in the State Plan for Postsecondary Education). Discuss how the proposed program addresses minority student access & success, and the institution s cultural diversity goals and initiatives. Promotional materials directed toward diverse, multi-ethnic students, and female students are currently under development, thanks to a Perkins grant awarded for this purpose to the Communication Arts Technologies (CAT) Department, through which the Digital Animation degree is offered. These materials are intended to increase multi-ethnic and female students interest in CAT s programs, including animation; and to inspire and Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 23
cultivate awareness of diversity in the arts at MC, in our local community as well as the animation industry at large. Additionally, providing students with guest lecture presentations by and introduction to multi-race and female artists are envisioned. It is hoped that this exposure provides students inspiration for their own work, from pioneering, diverse professionals actively working in the industry. Providing critical, sought-after digital animation skills will engender students success and contentment, leading to high rates of retention within, and graduation from the program. In summary, the animation program is committed to serving Montgomery College s diverse student body by: (1) Reaching out and encouraging participation through new, engaging promotional materials, (2) providing opportunities for inspiration, and (3) providing solid, skills-based curriculum designed for student success, retention and completion. N. Relationship to low productivity programs identified by the Commission: If the proposed program is directly related to an identified low productivity program, discuss how the fiscal resources (including faculty, administration, library resources and general operating expenses) may be redistributed to this program. N/A Montgomery College Digital Animation Associate in Applied Science_v2 Page 24