Fundamentals of Computer Graphics

None.

• The theoretical classes will be predominantly lecture-based, although they will also incorporate active learning techniques.
• The practical classes will be taught through guided and independent resolution of practical examples related to the topics covered.

Objectives

Provide comprehensive training in Computer Graphics, offering fundamental knowledge in modelling, lighting, material application, texturing, animation, rendering, and video editing, using the specialised graphics software Blender.

Skills

Knowledge and understanding:

• Recognise the general concepts of Computer Graphics.
• Understand basic geometric transformations, the visualisation process, different modelling techniques, the fundamentals of lighting, the basic principles of shading, and the animation mechanisms.

Knowledge application:

• Develop graphic animations using the modelling, lighting, shading, and animation tools available in Blender.

Conducting judgment:

• Analyse a graphic problem, evaluate different resolution options, considering both technical and aesthetic aspects.

Decision-making:

• Choose the most suitable approach, selecting the most appropriate tools and techniques for implementation, among the possible alternatives to solve the graphic problem.

Communication:

• Present and explain clearly the work developed, justifying the technical and creative choices, and being able to respond to questions about the process and decisions made.

Theoretical Component

• Introduction to Computer Graphics
• Meshes, curves and surfaces
• Modelling techniques
• Visualization
• Lighting
• Shading
• Colours
• Discreet techniques
• Composition

Practical Component

• Modelling
• Lighting
• Shading
• Animation
• Rendering

The final grade for the course unit is divided into two components:

• Theoretical Component (50% of the final grade – 10 points):
  • No minimum required grade.
  • No consultation allowed during execution.
  • The assessment may be carried out in the following ways:
    • A written test during the semester (to take place in the 9th week of the semester), with a weight of 5 points, complemented by a final exam in the normal exam period, also with a weight of 5 points. Each assessment will cover different parts of the syllabus.
    • A single exam, with a weight of 10 points, being held during the exam periods to which the student is entitled, covering the entire syllabus. The grade obtained will fully replace the assessment of the theoretical component, including for those who have already taken the tests or the exam.
• Practical Work (50% of the final grade – 10 values):
• No minimum required grade.
• Includes a mandatory defence, lasting approximately 40 minutes. Failure to attend the defence will result in a grade of zero (0) for the work.
• Submission deadlines are as follows:
  • First week of the normal exam period – The grade will be recorded in the regular exam period or in the recover exam period.
  • First week of the special exam period, only for students who meet the requirements for the special exam period in accordance with the current academic regulations – The grade will be recorded in the special exam period.
• Once defended, the grade for the practical work may be used in all subsequent exam periods.
• To verify the possibility of reusing the practical work grade obtained in previous academic years, students must send an email to the course unit coordinator (ncmartin@isec.pt).

Additionally, the following bonuses will be considered:

• If the student attends the organised lecture(s), 1 value will be added at most to the final grade.
• If the student completes the tasks proposed during practical classes, up to 1 value will be added to the final grade.

NAO