Introduction to Interior Design (Self-Paced)

Interior design projects may encompass entirely new construction as well as comprehensive renovation, modernization, or refurbishment of existing facilities, spaces, or rooms. This course is designed specifically for individuals who are exploring or considering a professional career in interior design. It delivers a comprehensive introduction to the interior design profession, an overview of the educational pathways available, and a detailed examination of the requisite professional skills needed for success.

The course emphasizes residential interior design, which represents a major branch of the field and typically encompasses specialized areas such as kitchen design, bathroom design, home office spaces, and custom furniture creation. Through engaging class discussions and carefully selected residential design projects, students explore a comprehensive range of essential design topics, including the fundamental principles and elements of design, the strategic use and application of color in interiors, space planning standards and best practices, and the process of assembling and coordinating furniture, materials, surfaces, textures, and color schemes into cohesive designs. Key residential design resources, including manufacturers, showrooms, and suppliers, are thoroughly explored and discussed. Students will receive detailed information regarding the purchase of required drawing materials and supplies at the beginning of the course.

Online learning students will participate in active discussions with their fellow students and the course instructor throughout the duration of the program. Online learning students will need access to a computer equipped with audio capability, such as speakers or headphones, a scanner, and a digital camera for coursework. Student projects are assembled in either PowerPoint format for Windows operating systems or Keynote format for Mac operating systems.

How do the Live Via Zoom online courses work?

• Structure: Students interact live with their instructor and fellow classmates during their scheduled sessions via Zoom. Some courses include assignments for students to complete between sessions, which may have due dates that require course participation during the week. In some courses, projects and visual presentations may be required as part of the assessment.
• Schedule: Please check the course description for exact course dates and times. Students must log into the Zoom meeting to attend their scheduled session, but do not need a Zoom account to participate. Instructors often record course meetings; if you know you are going to miss a session, please let your instructor know ahead of time.
• Time commitment: The time that you spend working on your online course will vary based on the number of assignments and your personal learning pace.

How do the asynchronous self-paced online courses work?

• Structure: There are video lectures and learning tutorials to watch each week, and one required weekly assignment to complete and post to the course platform. Additionally, students interact with each other in the discussion forums where they respond to discussion questions and provide feedback on each other's work. Students have some flexibility on a weekly basis in terms of completing their studies, though they should expect due dates for assignments that require ongoing participation in the online course throughout the week.
• Schedule: Courses are structured to run on a weekly basis. Check the course description for exact course dates and total duration. Students typically have several due dates per week where they participate in a discussion forum and submit an assignment.
• Time commitment: The time that you spend working on your online course will vary, based on completion of approximately six assignments distributed throughout the course period.
• Relationship building: There are many ways in which students interact with their instructor and peers throughout the course. Students discuss topics in the discussion board, where their instructor and peers provide insight, guidance, and constructive feedback. Students and the instructor can also communicate through private assignment correspondence within the course site. The instructor also provides screen-capture video feedback on some assignments to enhance student learning.

How do the self-paced online courses work?

• Structure: Typically, there is a lecture each week with required assignments to complete and post to the course platform. Additionally, students interact with each other in the discussion forums where they respond to discussion questions and engage with their peers. Students have flexibility in terms of completing their studies. Students should expect due dates for assignments that require participation in the online course throughout the week.
• Schedule: Courses are often set up to run on a weekly basis. Check the course description for exact course dates and duration. Students typically have several due dates a week where they participate in a discussion forum, submit an assignment, or take a quiz.
• Time commitment: The time that you spend working on your online course will vary based on the number of assignments you must complete.
• Relationship building: There are many ways in which students interact with their instructor and peers throughout the program. Students discuss topics in the discussion board, where their instructor and peers provide insight, guidance, and constructive feedback. Students and the instructor also communicate through private assignment correspondence within the course site or via email. Sometimes instructors arrange for a class chat, either using a conference call or an instant message system for real-time interaction.

Important Notes:

• Students for Self-Paced classes will work at their own time availability and schedule.
• Date Posted indicates the start and end date of course access. Students will have access to this Online Learning at any time within the specified period.