This class covers the same content as the live format class, but you will access the lessons, complete the assignments, and contribute to classroom discussions on your own schedule during the week.  Update:  I have changed the format of this class to have 2 lessons per week so that students who cannot access the free educational version license can do the class using the free 30-day trial of the commercial version.  I will post 2 lessons per week, but you still have 6 weeks to complete it, being mindful of the 30-day trial limitations if you do not obtain the educational license.

We will learn the basics of the Autodesk Maya interface, investigate the history of animation, figure out how physics and animation go together, and analyze and discuss “animated shorts”.  We will learn how to create a basic 3D object, cover the two classic animation exercises of a bouncing ball and a walk cycle, learn how to expand to jumping, running, etc. and animate a complete solar system. We will also cover animation styles, news, and careers.

Lesson 1 - Introduction, basic shape creation 
Lesson 2 - Model a Greek-style temple building
Lesson 3 - Bouncing Ball
Lesson 4 - Walk Cycle
Lesson 5 - Expand Walk Cycle (Jump, etc.)
Lesson 6 - Solar System

Each week there will be video and PDF instructions for the project, assigned short videos, articles to watch/read and discussion questions to answer. (See note above about the new schedule for lessons.  I am not strict on when you turn in assignments, but if you're on the trial version, you have 30-days until your software stops working).

Students will have short research assignments on animation styles, news, and careers and on analyzing animated short films, game/movie trailers, etc. 

Students will share their findings with the class weekly and all students are required to dialogue with each other in response to these submissions and/or a discussion prompt. Students will submit their finished Maya files to be graded, and will be able to make improvements and resubmit throughout the course.  

Please note, effective June 2020: Unfortunately, Maya has changed the procedure for students obtaining the free educational version of the software, and they have decided that students from non-accredited institutions or homeschooled students are not eligible for an educational license.  However, there is a workaround:  if you belong to a homeschool association, such as HSLDA, your proof of membership can be submitted for approval for an educational license. 

First, try registering through the school district you would normally attend, as students in certain school districts are still able to register using their school information. If this does not work, then you may have to download the trial version for 30 days.

Come learn how the pros create those video games and movie special effects!