New Media Communications
The New Media Communications Program run by Saskatchewan Polytechnic is an exceptional program. Within the first year of the two year program, a student can very easily learn a whole new world of things. It is only hosted in Regina and Prince Albert, but you can choose to take it in-class or online. This makes things a lot easier for people who like to work on their own or benefit from a teacher’s guidance.
Content
The courses you take delve into nearly everything. From graphics, to web, to video, to animation, there really isn’t anything they don’t at least touch on. The primary focus is definitely web and graphic design. Audio, video, and animation are all small sections in comparison, and knowing this before joining would have been useful for some of the students that had enrolled this year. There is also virtually nothing on video-game design, save for a small Flash unit that may not be around much longer. You learn very intensely how to use coding languages, and there are definitely times where you wish you just had more time. Personally, I think this course is amazing for anyone who wants to learn the basics of what you need to know to become a graphic or web designer.
Teachers
Not only did I meet a lot of people with the same interests as me, but I also found that being around teachers who know what it’s like to be in the real world was extremely beneficial. They are able to put things into perspective and base assignments on their own experiences. In every course, there are ways for them to draw back to real-world applications. Having them there for you to pick their brains is incredibly useful and one of the biggest things to take advantage of.
Work-Placement
To finish off your semester, you are placed or chosen for a work-placement. This, again, really instills the real-world applications of this program. I did mine at OmniOnline, where I learned a remarkable amount within my 90 hours there. Not only did I learn some tips and tricks in regards to making a website, but I also learned how to speak to clientele and what to ask about, when making a website to fit their needs. The entire time I was there, I was given a place to work and the comfort to ask them questions. I think I speak for my entire class when I say that this program would not be complete without the addition of this work-placement. It just ties everything together and gives you that last little boost in production for your portfolio.