76-881 Introduction to Multimedia Design

12 units, Carnegie Mellon University

This class meets the increasing demand for professional/technical writers who understand multimedia and its communicative possibilities. It provides students with the opportunity to create both an explainer video and a more persuasive animation merging text, spoken voice, music, images, and video clips. Students will learn the basic concepts and vocabulary of motion graphics, practical issues surrounding designs that change over time, and digital storytelling through hands-on projects. Inspiration is drawn from popular Vox and Ted Ed explainer videos that have come to represent the genre. Students explore writing and recording their own narration and how to best utilize elements of time, motion, and sound to enhance their visual communication skills. Adobe After Effects will be taught to complete assignments and explore multimedia possibilities. Some Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Audition will also be taught to support specific tasks. Basic experience with Photoshop or Illustrator prior to taking this class is helpful, but not required. In-class discussions and critiques are essential components of the course.

Prerequisites: 76-391 or 51-262 or 76-791

Offered: Fall 2025

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