Students who are concerned about not meeting the prerequisites for this course are encouraged to contact the course coordinator before registering
Overview
Computer Graphics is a 3-credit senior-level course that introduces the concepts and implementation of computer graphics. As one of the important subject areas of the study of computer science and information systems, this course will focus on the theoretical aspects and implementation of computer graphics using OpenGL.
Outline
Unit 1: Preparation
Unit 2: Introduction to Computer Graphics and OpenGL
Unit 3: Basic Programming Techniques using OpenGL
Unit 4: 2D Graphics
Unit 5: Colour Systems and Shading
Unit 6: 3D Graphics I – Transformation and Viewing
Unit 7: 3D Graphics II – Objects Modeling and Visible Surface Detection
Unit 8: Lighting
Unit 9: Surface Rendering
Unit 10: Basic Ray Tracing Algorithms
Unit 11: Applying Ray Tracing Techniques
Unit 12: Additional Topics
Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to
explain the core concepts of computer graphics, including viewing, projection, perspective, modelling and transformation in two and three dimensions.
apply the concepts of colour models, lighting and shading models, textures, ray tracing, hidden surface elimination, anti-aliasing, and rendering.
interpret the mathematical foundation of the concepts of computer graphics.
describe the fundamentals of animation, parametric curves and surfaces, and spotlighting.
identify a typical graphics pipeline and apply graphics programming techniques to design and create computer graphics.
create effective OpenGL programs to solve graphics programming issues, including 3D transformation, objects modelling, colour modelling, lighting, textures, and ray tracing.
Evaluation
To receive credit for COMP 390, you must achieve a course composite grade of at least D (50 percent), an average grade of at least 50 percent on the assignments, at least 50 percent on the project, and a grade of at least 50 percent on the final examination. The weighting of the composite grade is as follows:
Activity
Weight
Assignment 1
10%
Assignment 2
10%
Assignment 3
10%
Assignment 4
10%
Programming Project
30%
Final Exam
30%
Total
100%
The final examination for this course must be requested in advance and written under the supervision of an AU-approved exam invigilator. Invigilators include either ProctorU or an approved in-person invigilation centre that can accommodate online exams. Students are responsible for payment of any invigilation fees. Information on exam request deadlines, invigilators, and other exam-related questions, can be found at the Exams and grades section of the Calendar.
To learn more about assignments and examinations, please refer to Athabasca University’s online Calendar.
Materials
Hearn, Donald, Baker, M. Pauline, & Carithers, Warren R. (2011). Computer Graphics with OpenGL® (4th ed.). Boston, MA: Prentice Hall. (eText)
Athabasca University reserves the right to amend course outlines occasionally and without notice. Courses offered by other delivery methods may vary from their individualized study counterparts.