Issue Date: 4/27/09
Class creates outside the box
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"In almost any industry you have to create some sort of packaging, not just layout. You're going to have to sell it and know how to set it up and use it," Palomar graphics teacher Patty Tait said. "It is really important to teach them how to sell and design to sell it."
Although the economy is faltering, there is one industry that continues to grow: graphic communications. This fall Palomar will offer a course giving students an experience no other community college in the area offers, GCIP 255: Electronic Packaging and Design.
What makes Palomar's graphics communication department stand out is a combination of technology and curriculum. "The industry standards are evolving with the trends and technology, with this new course we were then able to bring a curriculum that is up to date for the trends in the industry," graphic communications department chair Lillian Payn said.
Tait and Payn developed the course curriculum. Tait, with over 10 years of teaching experience, will teach the class. She draws from her industry experience and combines it with hands-on learning and rich resources. This gives students a new perspective on the industry and practice that is hard to get outside an actual job, experts said.
Payn said the department is "showcasing" its state-of-the art technology to other colleges in the area. In the last year Palomar received a new Vocational Training and Education Grant. The grant was used to purchase a vinyl cutter so students could see their designs come to life.
Phillip Gann, a student and print operator with the graphics program for over three years, has worked on packaging projects in other classes but said he is excited that packaging will have its own class.
The class will help students capitalize on a growing industry. The State of California Employment Development Department projects a 10 percent growth rate in graphic design jobs in the San Diego County area between 2006 and 2016.
Part of the reason for growth is the industry clusters in San Diego, especially the travel and entertainment, communication and new media industries. Also more companies are marketing on the web, and when business is slow many companies find it a good time to work on their re-branding and marketing campaigns.
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