Abstract:

For over a decade I have taught college graphic design, web design, and motion graphics courses using the most recent textbooks available. I switched authors and publishers frequently, to keep the information in step with industry standards. Unfortunately, even the most current textbooks have always managed to be somewhat out of date due to the rapid changes in software versions and the length of the print publication process. Last June I told the university bookstore to put a hold on my new book orders as I explored online options for content delivery. I began the Fall 2010 semester with no textbooks, but my students were excited with the alternative: high quality, up to date, online instruction, from some of the most respected names in the graphic design industry. This paper reveals my solution, student feedback, and the pros and cons of subscribing to quality online instructional resources in lieu of traditional textbooks.

Keywords:

Online instructional resources.