Course Title: Graphics of Communication

Course Code: MCM202

Department: Mass Communication
Lecturer: Mr. Idowu Peter

Course Description:
This course explores the fundamental principles and techniques of graphic
communication in mass media. It covers visual storytelling, design principles,
graphic tools, and applications in media production. Emphasis will be on creating
impactful visuals for various platforms, integrating design into communication
strategies, and understanding graphics as a tool for effective mass communication.

Course Objectives:
By the end of this course, students will:
1. Understand the role of graphics in mass communication.
2. Learn basic design principles and their applications.
3. Gain proficiency in using graphic design software.
4. Create and evaluate effective visual content for media.
5. Understand how to integrate graphics into communication strategies.

Course Outline:
Module 1: Introduction to Graphics in Communication
- Definition and importance of graphics in mass communication.
- Historical development of graphic communication.
- Types of visual communication: infographics, illustrations, etc.
- Overview of current trends in graphic design.

Module 2: Design Principles and Elements

- Principles: Balance, contrast, emphasis, unity, and proportion.
- Elements: Line, shape, color, texture, and typography.
- Understanding color theory and psychology in communication design.
- Typography basics: fonts, legibility, and readability.
Module 3: Graphic Tools and Software
- Overview of graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Canva).
- Hands-on introduction to graphic design tools.
- Tips and techniques for efficient use of graphic software.

Module 4: Visual Storytelling and Communication

- Basics of storytelling through visuals.
- Creating engaging infographics and layouts.
- Combining text and images for maximum impact.
- Case studies: Effective visual storytelling in media.

Module 5: Graphics for Digital and Print Media

- Design considerations for digital media (web, social media, apps).
- Graphics for print media: posters, flyers, magazines, and newspapers.
- Differences between designing for print and digital platforms.
- Best practices for ensuring quality and consistency.

Module 6: Ethics and Copyright in Graphic Design

- Understanding intellectual property and copyright laws.
- Ethical considerations in graphics creation and usage.
- Avoiding plagiarism in graphic design.

Module 7: Project and Presentation

- Individual or group projects: Designing a graphics communication campaign.
- Presentation of projects with feedback from peers and instructor.
- Final evaluation and discussion.
Module 1: Introduction to Graphics in Communication

1. Definition and Importance of Graphics in Mass Communication

Graphics are texts, drawings, designs, illustrations or images that are deliberately
created via a medium by hand or some other means in a manner that makes visual,
cultural, aesthetic or commercial meaning.
The creator of a graphic may draw inspiration from himself, some other beings or
from his or her environment. Please note, graphics, within the context of this course,
are not meaningless drawings. They are deliberate creations. They are not accidental
or acts of serendipity.

Communication is the transmission of a message from one point to another that

produces some effect. According to Harold Lasswell (1948), a useful and convenient
way of describing communication is to make it answer these pertinent questions:
Who says what? In what channel? To whom? With what effect? Berelson and Steiner
(1964)
define communication as ‘the transmission of information, ideas, skills and emotions
e.t.c by the use of symbols-words, pictures, groups e.t.c. It is the act or process of
transmission that is usually called 'communication’.
Hovland, Janis and Kelley (1953) define communication as ‘the process by which an
individual (the communicator) transmits stimuli (especially verbal) to modify the
behavior of other individuals (the audience).
From these definitions, one thing is clear. Communication is from one party to
another and it is effected when the person receiving the communication has made
meaning out of what he has communicated and responded accordingly. Where there
is no response, then communication is one-way. But when there is response,
communication
has been done.

Graphic Communication is simply the process of producing graphics to communicate

to an audience. Whether what you are communicating is through a composed text,
drawing, photograph, illustration or slides, you are either communicating an idea,
passing an instruction, sending a message in a way that is culturally meaningful to
your audience. The term “culturally meaningful” means that what you are
communicating
must be doing one, two, three or four of the following:
• Persuading
• Informing
• Educating
• Entertaining

Graphics in mass communication refer to visual elements—such as images,

illustrations, typography, and layouts—used to enhance communication and
effectively convey messages . In the modern world of media, people process visual
information much faster than text, making graphics a crucial communication tool for
engagement and clarity.

Why Graphics Matter in Mass Communication:

- Enhancing Message Delivery:Graphics ensure information is understood quickly
and effectively.
- Grabbing Audience Attention: Eye-catching designs capture interest, making
content more engaging.
- Simplifying Complex Information: Diagrams, illustrations, and infographics help in
breaking down difficult concepts.
- Strengthening Brand Identity: Consistent use of colors, fonts, and imagery helps
establish strong branding.
- Boosting Engagement: Visually appealing content increases interaction, especially
in digital media.

Real-world Application Example:

- Social Media Marketing: Brands use high-quality graphics for advertisements and
promotions to engage audiences.
- News Media: Newspapers and online platforms use infographics to summarize
statistics or research.
- Television Broadcasting: On-screen visuals enhance storytelling in documentaries
and news reports.
2. Historical Development of Graphic Communication
Graphic communication has evolved significantly from ancient symbolic
representations to today’s digitally crafted visuals.

Key Historical Milestones:

- Prehistoric Era: Cave paintings were early forms of visual communication (e.g.,
Lascaux Cave Paintings in France).
- Ancient Civilizations: Egyptians used hieroglyphics to communicate through
pictorial writing.
- Medieval Manuscripts: Illuminated manuscripts featured artistic typography and
illustrations.
- 15th Century - Printing Press: Johannes Gutenberg’s invention revolutionized
printed communication.
- 19th Century - Lithography: The printing method allowed mass reproduction of
images for newspapers and advertisements.
- 20th Century - Computer Age: The introduction of graphic design software like
Photoshop and CorelDRAW changed the way graphics were produced.
- 21st Century - Digital Revolution: The rise of social media and AI-powered design
tools reshaped communication visuals.

Real-world Application Example:

- Typography Evolution: Fonts originally hand-drawn in manuscripts have evolved
into digital typefaces like Arial and Times New Roman.

3. Types of Visual Communication

There are various forms of graphic communication used across industries.

Major Types of Visual Communication:

1. Infographics: Graphical representations of data and information (e.g., COVID-19
statistics charts).
2. Illustrations: Drawings used to support content (e.g., book illustrations, editorial
cartoons).
3. Typography: The arrangement and style of text to enhance readability (e.g.,
magazine headlines).
4. Photography: The use of images to strengthen communication (e.g., journalistic
photos).
5. Advertising Graphics: Visual elements used in branding and marketing (e.g.,
billboard designs).

Real-world Application Example:

- Government Public Awareness Campaigns: Infographics are used to educate
citizens on issues like public health and safety.

4. Overview of Current Trends in Graphic Design

Graphic design continuously evolves with advancements in technology and
changing aesthetic preferences .

Major Trends Today:

- Minimalist Design: Clean and simple designs that remove unnecessary elements.
- Bold Typography: Using expressive fonts for impactful messaging.
- 3D & Immersive Graphics: Graphics with depth for a more engaging visual
experience.
- Augmented Reality (AR) in Design: Interactive digital graphics for brands and
media.
- Data Visualization: Complex data simplified through intuitive graphics.

Real-world Application Example:

- Social Media Branding: Companies design logos with minimalist concepts to
appeal to modern audiences.
Module 2: Design Principles and Elements

1. Principles of Graphic Design

Graphic designers follow universal design principles to create visually appealing
compositions.

Core Principles:
- Balance: The equal distribution of elements to achieve stability in a design.
- Contrast: Using differences in color, shape, or texture to highlight key features.
- Emphasis: Making certain elements stand out to draw viewers' attention.
- Unity: Ensuring all design components work together harmoniously.
- Proportion: Keeping size relationships between objects visually pleasing.

Real-world Application Example:

- Magazine Layouts: Editors use balance and emphasis to structure attractive cover
designs.

2. Elements of Graphic Design

Graphics rely on key visual elements to communicate messages effectively.

Fundamental Design Elements:

- Lines: Direct visual flow and separation in graphics.
- Shapes: Used to form structure and representation (e.g., icons, buttons).
- Color: Affects mood and engagement in communication.
- Texture: Provides depth and dimension in visual compositions.
- Typography: The choice and arrangement of fonts for readability.

Real-world Application Example:

- Product Packaging: Branding elements like typography and colors establish a
company’s identity.

3. Understanding Color Theory in Communication Design

Color influences perception , emotion , and brand identity .
 Key Concepts in Color Theory:
- Primary Colors: Red, blue, yellow (cannot be created by mixing).
- Secondary Colors: Green, orange, purple (formed by mixing primary colors).
- Tertiary Colors: Combinations of primary and secondary colors.
- Color Psychology:
- Red: Energetic and urgent (used in sales promotions).
- Blue: Trust and calmness (used in corporate branding).
- Yellow: Cheerful and attention-grabbing (used in warning signs).

Real-world Application Example:

- Brand Logos: Coca-Cola’s red symbolizes excitement; Facebook’s blue symbolizes
trust.

4. Typography Basics
Typography plays a huge role in how messages are perceived.

Typography Essentials:
- Font Families: Serif (formal), sans-serif (modern), script (handwritten).
- Hierarchy: Differentiating text sizes and styles for readability.
- Alignment: Left, right, centered, or justified formatting affects presentation.
- Spacing & Readability: Ensuring text is clear and properly positioned.

Real-world Application Example:

- Movie Posters: Typography is carefully chosen to match the film’s theme.