HomeMy WebLinkAboutART-105Bergen Community College
Division of Humanities
Department of Visual Art
Course Syllabus
Course Designation, Number, and Title:
ART-105 History of Animation
Basic Information About Course and Instructor:
Semester and year: ___________
Section Number: ___________
Meeting Times: ___________
Location: ___________
Instructor: ___________
Office Location: ___________
Phone: ___________
Departmental Secretary (optional): ___________
Office Hours: ___________
Email Address: ___________
Course Description:
Official Catalog Course Description:
This course focuses on the history and development of animation as an art form. It is designed
to heighten students’ awareness of significant innovations and expressions in the art of
animation. Students will explore early cinematic practices, the evolution of animation studios,
sociological trends such as censorship, Japanese animation, avant-garde influences, puppet
animation, and digital animation.
Credits: 3 (3 lecture)
Pre-requisites: None
Co-requisites: None
Student Learning Outcomes:
As a result of meeting the requirements in this course, students will be able to:
1. Understand major figures, technological innovations, and aesthetic developments in the
history of animation.
2. Describe the materials and techniques used in various styles of animation.
3. Analyze how political, social, and economic factors influence animation production.
4. Differentiate between commercial and non-commercial animated works.
Means of Assessment:
● Exams on readings, lectures, and discussions
● Participation in class discussions
● Written assignments analyzing animation history
Course Content:
This course explores the evolution of animation, from early experimental films to contemporary
animated productions. Topics covered include:
● The origins of animation and silent-era techniques
● Major animation studios: Disney, Warner Bros., MGM, and UPA
● Avant-garde and experimental animation
● European puppet animation
● Japanese anime and its global influence
Each class session consists of lectures, screenings, and discussions.
Special Features of the Course:
Students will view and analyze a variety of animated works, participate in discussions, and
complete written assignments evaluating animation history and techniques.
Course Texts and/or Other Study Materials:
Required Text:
● CARTOONS: 100 Years of Cinema Animation by Giannalberto Bendazzi
○ Publisher: Indiana University Press (1994)
○ ISBN-10: ___________
○ ISBN-13: ___________
Research, Writing, and/or Examination Requirement(s):
● Exams (80%): Four exams covering readings, lectures, and discussions.
● Class participation (20%): Assessed based on engagement in discussions and respect
for course materials.
● Students are required to take notes and adhere to classroom etiquette.
Grading Policy:
A student’s final grade will be determined as follows:
● Exams: 80%
● Class Participation: 20%
Late work and make-up exams will be allowed at the instructor ’s discretion.
Attendance Policy:
● Students are permitted three excused absences for serious personal or health matters.
● Four or more absences will result in automatic course failure.
● Two latenesses are excused; additional latenesses will result in a half-grade penalty.
● Leaving class early may also affect grades.
Other College, Divisional, and/or Departmental Policy Statements:
Refer to official BCC policies on plagiarism, academic integrity, disability accommodations, and
student support services.
Student and Faculty Support Services:
Students may seek assistance from resources such as:
● The Tutoring Center (Room L-125)
● The Writing Center (Room L-125)
● The Online Writing Lab (OWL)
● The Office of Specialized Services (Room S-131)
● The Sidney Silverman Library (Room L-226)
Course Outline and Calendar:
Week 1-2 – The Silent Era and Early Animation
Week 3-4 – Walt Disney and Early Studio Animations
Week 5-7 – Warner Bros., MGM, and Fleischer Studios
Week 8-10 – Avant-Garde and Experimental Animation
Week 11 – European Puppet Animation
Week 12-13 – Japanese Anime
Week 14 – Final Exam
Note: This schedule is subject to change depending on class progress.