spectrum infotech

program overview

information technology...
something for everyone
Courses in Spectrum's Info Tech Program go from beginner to advanced, from grade 9 to grade 12, and cover a large range of topics...

digital media

Learn how to create awesome graphics and special effects for print, the web, or computer game objects using the latest software. Having access to spectrum's IT computer lab, students will create and manipulate digital graphics using Adobe Photoshop CS2 for images, Adobe Illustrator CS2 for vector based graphics and art work, and Rhino 3D for creating and rendering models in 3D.

web site design

Even absolute beginners will create a complete working web site hosted on Spectrum's IT web server. Students will learn the fundamentals of HTML coding skills by hand. Later, with the aid of programs like Macromedia Dreamweaver, students will learn sophisticated web design technology to create dynamic web sites using javascript, PHP, and ASP. Advanced topics include web design using Macromedia Flash and Actionscript.

digital animation

Create 2D and 3D Animations using industry standard software. Learn to use Macromedia Flash MX to develop 2D animations, and Rhino (a 3D modeling program) to develop 3D character models and scenes. Students will explore the history of animation and traditional animation techniques such as stop motion, pixilation and claymation. At advanced levels, students are invited to explore 3D Studio Max to develop 3D computer animations. Students may use up to one term to complete a full animation for their portfolios. Students who choose animation should have a love for drawing and story telling.

programming and game development

In their first course students design and create fun and exciting games that run on Windows, and they are introduced to object-oriented programming at the same time. Students interested in further programming opportunities can study using Visual Basic, Java, ASP and Flash Actionscript for Windows, Web, and game programming.

digital imaging

Students learn about the digital camera, study various aspects of commercial photography and learn how to set up a digital workspace. They will also study colour as it applies to digital images, examine digital darkroom, the basics of Paint Shop Pro as well as outputting digital images and researching career options. Later topics include advanced digital imaging, advanced photography, Photoshop, animation, marketing and careers in the industry. Scientific digital imaging may be taken as an enrichment program for students who are seeking advanced training.

systems and networking

Take apart a computer and then put it back together. This is the first challenge for beginners choosing this topic area. Beyond this is an in-depth exposure to computer hardware and operating systems. Students learn the functionality of hardware and software components as well as suggested best practices in maintenance, and safety issues. Through hands-on activities and labs, students learn how to assemble and configure a computer, install operating systems and software, and troubleshoot hardware and software problems. Students will also set up and administer a small computer network.

digital audio and music

Students are introduced to the basics of digital audio and music using Audacity and M-Audio Session software. Students develop the skills necessary to create and use audio and music compositions in their animations, web sites, programming and game projects.