Digital Foundations: Introduction to Media Design with the Adobe Creative Cloud - Revised Edition

Reviewed by Skipper McFarlane, Part Time Instructor, Lane Community College on 8/13/20

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

This text is a good, comprehensive introductory review of Adobe’s three main tools, Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign. It frames all three of these tools in a good mix of art history (the Bauhaus), design theory and computer operating systems. This makes the book not just about a “tool”, rather it integrates and builds on other fundamental courses students may be taking and does a good job of preparing them for more advance classes.

Content Accuracy rating: 4

Overall the text accurately reflects tools, process and history. There are some areas where further fact checking, and careful review of wording would be helpful to ensure student understands the concepts. Annual review and updating, would be beneficial as, though the text states that it focuses on core tools that do not change from version to version, this is not completely accurate. Tools do vary over time and the chapter assignments require that students be able to locate the required tools and menu items.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 4

Overall the content of the book is current. It is written in such a way that it will maintain relevance for some time with only minor edits. However, being a software focused book, it is important for the instructor to remind students that there could be steps in chapter work that reference tools or menu items that have changed. I have found it useful to remind my students that it’s not always the steps that matter but getting from point A to point B as in most adobe software, there are multiple ways to approach a given process.

Clarity rating: 5

The text is written in a clear and easily understood structure. When jargon is used, it is appropriate and explained so that students do not get lost in terminology. The instructions for each chapter assignments are clear and concise, structured as steps with visuals to add clarity. Chapter files are also provided for students to use so that they can follow along with the same files used in the text which adds clarity to the process.

Consistency rating: 5

The text is consistent in how it presents the content. Each chapter starts with an overview and introduction of what the chapter goals are. These are framed both in art history and theory which are then followed by chapter exercises to help reinforce these ideas.

Modularity rating: 4

The content is organized into chapters which do build upon each other. However due to the content in each section, it is not always possible to restructure or re-organize the content into a different sequence. This may be done to an extent within each software application, but not necessarily overall as there are references to earlier content/chapters in each section.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 4

Overall the organization is structured well, however the first chapter mixes art history, design theory, file structures and Illustrator tools. These tools seem to be a bit advance compared to where students start in the following chapter and may be better suited elsewhere in the section related to Illustrator.

Interface rating: 4

Overall the interface works well. There are not issues while viewing online, however when downloading the PDF version there are some odd breaks in content from page to page, with rather large areas of empty space that could be better utilized. Navigating through the content in terms of internal and external links work well to help students get to the desired content.

Grammatical Errors rating: 4

The text has very little grammatical issues. Just a couple of items here and there in the book but it doesn’t have an impact on readability or understanding.

Cultural Relevance rating: 3

This text utilizes examples of the Bauhaus and therefore has a decidedly Western approach to Design theory and practice. Aside from using the pronoun of “her” throughout, there is not much done to include other ethnicities and cultural ideas around art and design which could provide additional insight and approaches to the subject.

Reviewed by Angela Amaral, Adjunct Professor, Bristol Community College on 6/30/20

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

I reviewed the Online version. A comprehensive guide for the entry-level student. Student gets a thorough basic instruction on a mix of brief historical information to what they will be learning and how it relates to what they will be doing, along with color theory, Principles and elements of design while learning to use Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign. The step by step approach works well for beginners and leaves no room for getting lost. The table of contents to the left is helpful but might not be easy to find if this platform is new to a student. The ability of choosing the different formats of readability (Online, PDF, KINDLE, E-Pub, MOBI) was a great plus.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

Downloadable files came in Zip format and worked well. Content is well thought-out and presented. Video’s did accomplish what they set out to do however, when thinking of Design itself and proximity being a element, I would suggest moving the videos closer to the actual exercise. Content Information was accurate.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 3

Updating videos and exercises to correspond with 2019-2021 versions of software. These programs are highly dynamic and are constantly being upgraded. Beginner Students sometimes have a hard time following along and finding tools and such if the examples are from legacy programs due to newer features/shortcuts/change in option locations etc.

Clarity rating: 4

Well written and easy to read considering all the program terminology.

Consistency rating: 4

Was pretty consistent for the most part which makes learning a new program easier and helpful. Great for online reading. Book is exclusive for Mac Users, however the blurb about “if you’re a PC user just substitute “Command” with the “Ctrl” key. The book might benefit to also substitute “Return” with “Enter” key or even throughout the book perhaps adding the PC alternative in parenthesis.

Modularity rating: 5

Each chapter is fairly short reading. File exercises are very useful and accessible within different areas of the chapters and the videos are very helpful for today’s students who’s attention span is about 10-15 minutes total at one time. The inserted note sections for added exploration of topics are a plus.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 3

It was a bit confusing at first as to how to read through the chapters but then realized the links to the pages were at the very bottom of the page within the “red footer”, Perhaps making them a bit more prominent and easily seen. Today’s student, if they don’t see or understand what they are to do within 2.5 seconds, they start to get frustrated and end up spending too much time searching than learning. It chronologically works and flows well for the most part, starting with the introduction with art history, web searches (creative commons etc.), design elements, color theory, leading to illustrator, then Photoshop, Scanning, saving for web and digital output and finally InDesign using spreads.

Interface rating: 4

Quick video reviews/summaries of steps, tips on how to use software tools to complete exercises, etc. , however it might be more effective if the video was on its actual corresponding exercise page (e.g. chapter 1, the video along with the exercise files should be at beginning of 1.3 Exercise 3, right after the example of the completed image. This will eliminate the potential of skipping over the important reading and it will also eliminate the potential to forget what they have seen on the video by the time they get to the exercise.

Grammatical Errors rating: 4

Some errors that need a good proofreading.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

Culturally sensitive.

Comments

Overall great online book for beginners. It's surprisingly quite thorough yet maintaining short chunks of readable information so not to overwhelm the reader.

Reviewed by Jennifer Dowling, Professor, Framingham State University on 6/29/20

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

The book is quite comprehensive. The interspersing of fine art with digital terms/vocabulary and software techniques (demonstrating tools with steps and technical aspects, such as shortcuts, use of mouse/keyboard) is very effective. Important technical information is provided, such as file formats, saving/exporting for different purposes and platforms, scanning, printing/outputting, etc. It also successfully offers a framework and historical perspective with theories and relevant concepts: Bauhaus, art history, famous artists, iconic works (in paint, sculpture, photo), design principles, Gestalt psychology, type styles and uses, color theory, photography, etc.

Content Accuracy rating: 4

The book is accurate and error-free, for the most part. There is a lot of information, some of which changes rapidly due to advances in technology. In terms of concepts, a couple of areas were confusing and could have been explained better with more details (i.e. Symmetry and Gestalt).

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

This book is relevant in a number of ways, but mainly with technology and tools usage in Adobe.

Clarity rating: 4

There is no ambiguity as to what each chapter contains, since there are clear labels and the order of information presented in the book is logical. Aside from some clarification in terms of several concepts, it is very clear and straightforward.

Consistency rating: 5

It has a consistent style of chapters and their contents throughout. The framework is logical and content is easy to access. The reader can jump into any chapter and feel like they are still reading the same book. There is similar amount of information in each chapter and section, with visual examples, explanations, and exercises.

Modularity rating: 5

The modular aspects in terms of sections are helpful for the reader to learn different concepts and techniques since it "chunks" information (as previously stated, it is organized well and easy to navigate).

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

The book is organized well and enjoyable to read and learn from The online text is easy to follow and labeled well (chapter headings and sub-headings (sections). It is logical in its plan, construction, and execution.

Interface rating: 5

The book's interface is easy to navigate, with the arrows on the bottom of each page to advance to the next sections or step back/rewind. Images are the right size (not too large or small) and represent the content in the text well. It has a "how-to" style with visual examples, screen grabs, screencasts, and written explanations for learners to practice with software tools and see how it is done. Links to resources and downloadable files are provided, which is very helpful.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

The spelling and grammar are very good, and there were no errors or issues with wording or typos. The book reads well and isn't overburdened with unnecessary text.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

There is no insensitivity displayed in the text, primarily due to the nature of the subject matter. It is accessible to all and has a welcoming, inclusive, and encouraging overall message.

Comments

This is a very good book! I particularly like the merging of fine art examples and concepts, with the practical art and design aspects (i.e. Mondrian's art and grid structures/systems). There is a correlation with art/design examples and their purpose and meanings, combined with the creation of designs and graphics using Adobe. While learning concepts, students are seeing examples and making it on their own, so they can better understand the process and make connections to see relevance. Students are not just asked to make a collage, but WHY. Art examples are presented, and then ways to create it on the computer with selections and masks are shown. This is a pattern used throughout the book, which is rather effective and a creative approach to teaching digital media.

Reviewed by Michelle Dreiling, Graduate Teaching Employee, University of Oregon on 5/20/20

Comprehensiveness rating: 3 see less

Subject coverage is comprehensive for an intro-level course - it would be useful to have an index in particular, as terms are defined fairly thoroughly throughout.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

Found text to be factually accurate.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

Authors emphasize Adobe CS as the tool, and skills are forefronted - refreshing and lasting relevance!

Clarity rating: 5

Love that this book starts with the metaphor of digital interfaces - this step is too often skipped and is central to foundational understandings of digital production.

Consistency rating: 5

Very helpful and makes the work approachable.

Modularity rating: 5

The text is subdivided in a useful way - could be adapted easily.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

Following the book front to back makes the most sense for a beginner, but jumping around is also supported by a clear organization structure.

Interface rating: 4

The PDF could use some fine-tuning, but overall the interface is good.

Grammatical Errors rating: 2

Small errors throughout. Would recommend especially making sure introduction materials are flawless, as it's the first impression of the book.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

Authors exercise cultural sensitivity throughout.

Comments

I appreciate that the working files are linked and video walkthroughs are provided right in the book. This makes so much sense and is such a resource, particularly for online courses.

Reviewed by Chris Ingersoll, Assistant Professor, Marshall University on 3/13/20

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

The author’s execute the idea of mixing the aesthetics of art and design history with learning the basics of Adobe Creative Cloud software. The book teaches with step-by-step images, text, video and practices. It provides good content for students needing to find copyright free images and it does a nice job of teaching the consistency of the Adobe CC interface. There is no index or glossary, but a detailed linkable table of contents is included that works well for the step-by-step teaching method employed.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

Proper credits and permissions given throughout. The writing is well done and I saw no errors or bias. I reviewed the digital pdf version and found no issues with downloading the work files or viewing the videos for the exercises (I did a random sample not every link). The videos are well done and presented the basic functions as promised in the introduction.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

Software texts are difficult to keep current. This book is usable though it covers CC 2017 and the current CC can vary up to 2020. The text does allow for updates.

Clarity rating: 5

The technical terminology is appropriate for the subject and level of the student the book is designed to help.

Consistency rating: 4

Terminology is consistent and appropriate for the learning level. It took a few chapters to understand the framework.

Modularity rating: 5

The text utilizes easy to use chunks of information broken into reading, watching and practicing. Because the book is a pdf, I was able to make notes and highlight areas of interest.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 4

The flow is a bit confusing at first. As I continued, the consistency of the chapters helped me understand to download the files first, watch the video, read the text and then do the exercises. Would it be good to explain this upfront?

Interface rating: 5

I reviewed the digital pdf version and found no issues with downloading the work files or viewing the videos for the exercises (I did a random sample and not every link). The videos are well done and present the basic functions as promised in the introduction. It is a straightforward, linear format and thus easy to follow. The links outside the content will require maintenance.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

Instructions are difficult to write and the writing is well done. I saw no issues with grammar. There are good visual examples. Some will require updating as the software updates but the CC interface rarely sees drastic changes.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

There are no issues with sensitivity.

Comments

A good basic introduction to Adobe CC that also introduces some art and design history through practice. The instructional writing is particularly well done.

Reviewed by Stephanie Paine, Assistant Professor, Department of Visual Arts , University of Louisiana at Lafayette on 10/19/19

Comprehensiveness rating: 4 see less

The text covers a wide-range of topics useful for the introductory-level student; yet the organizational structure of the chapters provides a quick review for intermediate and advanced students. It includes a breadth of vocabulary relevant to basic design principals, file and workflow management, and contemporary digital imaging techniques. The lessons utilized many of the most needed tools in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator while integrating the elements of art and principals of design.

Content Accuracy rating: 4

The vocabulary was accurate and relevant to the exercises. Each lesson’s instructions were detailed and the workflow was logical.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 4

The title of this book indicates that it is most useful for an introductory-level student. As digital imaging becomes more complex, intermediate and advanced students would need a detailed methodology. However, the chapters cover dependable digital techniques and tools.

Clarity rating: 3

Throughout each lesson, the text integrates key vocabulary words and their definitions. A visual emphasis for these words, such as bolding or including an index, would be helpful in reinforcing the elements and principals of design alongside digital processes. The lesson instructions are clear and succinct.

Consistency rating: 4

Each chapter offers a brief overview of major art and design movements as it relates to the lesson plan. The text has concise explanations on the methodology of digital imaging, and includes screen shots to supplement instructions. Videos are included in several chapters, but not throughout the entire text.

Modularity rating: 5

The content of each chapter is clearly outlined. The topics and lesson plans are easily manageable to learn on a daily-basis and organized in a manner supportive of self-study.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 4

The chapters are structured to introduce a significant art and design movement as a foundation to learning a digital imaging technique. Lessons build upon the previous chapter’s topics, but each are separate enough for all levels of experience to browse the chapters as a quick reference or review.

Interface rating: 3

Reading the layout of the EPUB version in Apple Books can be stymied at times. Most of the text is left aligned, but sometimes it is justified, causing large gaps between words. Additionally, some headers appear at the bottom of the previous page as a disconnected, lone phrase. The online and PDF versions are cohesive, but the traditional lateral format is replaced by a vertical, downward structure that narrows the reader’s angle of view.

Grammatical Errors rating: 4

No significant grammatical errors were noted.

Cultural Relevance rating: 4

Given the wide breadth of topics, the text was inclusive.

Comments

This text is written by artist-educators and fills the gap of a much-needed perspective in teaching software within the context of art and design. There is a strong emphasis on establishing proper workflow and file management. The authors were mindful to include historical and contemporary references in the arts, and were inclusive to some photographic methods. Consistent use of the elements and principals of design are a plus.

Reviewed by Moe Folk, Professor, Kuztown University on 5/14/19

Comprehensiveness rating: 3 see less

While the book covers a great deal and includes some good post-chapter key words, it should include an index with important design words and also sections based on particular applications (e.g., Photoshop, then some of the main things someone might do with it). Also, if the title remains media design, it seems like that would warrant more moving images, which it doesn't cover in as great as detail. I would recommend removing the word from the title.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

Very clear throughout.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 4

It's always hard to pick relevant design example,s but they chose timeless bauhaus ones and also show a penchant for good current designs that will age well.

Clarity rating: 5

Very well written and accessible, especially considering all the jargon associated with learning software.

Consistency rating: 4

Some places use bold for steps to follow while others don't. I'd recommend using the bold format.

Modularity rating: 5

Very well done. And the associated exercise files help as well.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

It takes a beginner logically through the process, from finding material and editing/designing it to exporting it for users.

Interface rating: 4

Some of the images could be clearer (e.g., p. 16 and p. 49).

Grammatical Errors rating: 4

Very solid for the most part. Unless within double quotation marks, single quotation marks should not be used (ala p. 21). Some inconsistencies also exist in putting the period inside ending double quotation marks (it should be inside).

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

They do an excellent job broadening the representative scope from the base of Bauhaus images

Comments

While it says up front it will use Mac commands and provides a "translation" for PC users, the book nonetheless uses features exclusive to the Mac (such as the finder feature, folder naming, etc.) that do not necessarily translate as easy for PC users not familiar with Mac functionality, so some extra help might be needed if used in a class with a dedicated PC lab. The book is very helpful and provides a very accessible way for students to practice and master a wide variety of design within various Creative Cloud elements.