2026-09-05 - DDM - Course Intro + Hardware for Digital Media
Quick recap
The meeting was an introductory session for the Digital Design Media (DDM) computing module at CSA, led by Brian Williams. Brian introduced himself, his background in architecture and technology, and provided an overview of the computing journey through six modules, including DDM, 3D modeling, BIM, and advanced computing. He explained the structure of the DDM course, which covers software like Photoshop, Illustrator, SketchUp, and InDesign, and emphasized the importance of understanding computer hardware, particularly the GPU, for graphics work. Brian also discussed the online nature of the course, the use of the computing website for resources and grades, and the importance of having a capable personal computer. He addressed common challenges such as technical issues and internet problems, and introduced Mr. Neville Campbell as a resource for technical support. The session included interactive elements with students and covered the grading structure, which includes class participation, exercises, and assignments.
Next steps
Amber
Attempt to obtain the Adobe Photoshop license through the university's student email and lab techs. If unsuccessful, explore alternative options with Brian.
Jada
Submit the independent study form to Brian, preferably scanned properly.
kai
Resolve the module registration issue with Ms. Baker to ensure grades can be progressed.
Collaboration
All students: Register for the class on the computing website by clicking the "Register for Class" button and selecting the correct semester.
All students: Install Photoshop and have it ready for the next class.
All students: Find a laptop (preferably new) within a $1500 US budget for Brian, submit the link via the class website for Class Activity 1.
All students: Ensure to have a Google account for submitting work via Google Forms.
All students: Come to class with a profile picture set for Zoom.
All students: Utilize the CSA lab (4C10) for computer access if needed.
All students: Contact Mr. Neville Campbell for technical assistance with computers or software, mentioning they are CSA students.
Summary
Online Computing Course Introduction
Brian Williams introduced himself as a lecturer and trained architect who specializes in technology and graphics, currently teaching computing at Utech. He explained that the course will be delivered fully online using Miro as their digital whiteboard and a dedicated computing website that students will need to become familiar with over the next three years. Brian shared his background, including his experience with online teaching and his work creating 3D visuals, and mentioned that some students might recognize him from his previous YouTube tutorials.
DDM Computing Modules Overview
Brian presented an overview of the computing modules in the DDM (Digital Design Media) program, explaining the progression from first year to second year courses. The discussion covered when students should start using computers in their architectural studies, with opinions ranging from first year to second semester of first year. Brian outlined the six computing modules students will take throughout their program, including Introduction to Digital Design Media, Digital Documentation for Architects (formerly 2D CAD), 3D Modeling, and Building Information Modeling, emphasizing how the curriculum has evolved to include more advanced software like Revit and Lumion.
Computing Course Structure Overview
Brian outlined the computing journey across six steps, emphasizing the focus on applying previously learned software skills and developing a unique architectural style in advanced computing modules. He detailed the online structure of the courses, highlighting the use of a dedicated website for organizing modules, assignments, and class recordings, and explained how students can track their progress and grades in real-time. Brian also stressed the importance of digital submission through forms and encouraged students to register for classes online for efficient grade management.
Computing Class Registration Process
Brian explained the process for registering and participating in the computing class, emphasizing the use of digital forms via the website and the requirement for a Google account. He discussed class participation as a key factor in grading and outlined methods for communication, including the use of WhatsApp and email. Brian addressed common technical issues students face, such as software and hardware problems, and provided recommendations for seeking help, including contacting lab techs and Mr. Neville Campbell for technical support.
Digital Design Media Course Overview
Brian introduced the computing module and Digital Design Media (DDM) course to students, explaining that the 4-hour class typically involves about 1 hour of lecture and 2-3 hours of practical work. He emphasized the importance of having a second monitor for better screen visibility during software use and mentioned that students can contact Mr. Campbell for help finding used monitors. Brian then provided examples of digital media work including architectural renderings, floor plans, and marketing materials to demonstrate the practical applications of the skills students will learn.
Digital Design Media Course Overview
Brian introduced the Digital Design Media (DDM) course, explaining that it combines floor plans, photography, and text while emphasizing the importance of presentations in architecture. He outlined the course structure, which includes four units covering different tools and techniques, and detailed the grading components: 10% class participation, 10% class exercises, and two assignments. The course will cover software including Photoshop, Illustrator, SketchUp, and InDesign, with exercises conducted in class and assignments completed outside class time.
DDM Course Introduction Meeting
Brian introduced the DDM course, explaining that students will learn about creating presentation boards using design software like Photoshop and InDesign. He emphasized that the course structure makes it difficult to fail, as exercises are based on in-class work, and students will progress through assignments and a final portfolio project. Brian addressed questions about class timing, clarifying that while classes typically end before 9 PM, some sessions might run longer due to new material, and he stressed the importance of attending all classes to maintain the schedule.
Computer Components for Digital Design
Brian discussed the importance of understanding computer components for digital design media, emphasizing that knowledge of these tools is crucial for students' success in the course. He explained key components like the CPU (central processing unit), RAM (memory), storage, and GPU (graphics processing unit), comparing them to roles in an office setting. When asked which component is most important for DDM, Brian identified the GPU as the most relevant component for graphics-related work in digital design media.
GPU Setup Recommendations for Students
Brian explained the differences between integrated and discrete GPU setups using analogies of an artist and accountant working separately versus sharing space. He emphasized the importance of choosing computers with discrete GPUs rather than integrated ones, particularly for DDM and architecture studies, and highlighted that NVIDIA is the market leader in GPU brands. Brian warned students to be cautious about marketing language when purchasing computers and advised looking for specific terms like "discrete" rather than "integrated" when making purchases.
GPU Specifications for Laptop Buyers
Brian provided guidance on understanding GPU specifications for laptop purchases, explaining that the most important numbers to look for are the generation (first number) and horsepower (last two digits) on Nvidia cards, while Radeon counts differently with the first number representing year and last three digits representing power. He advised avoiding integrated graphics and recommended minimum 50 series for Radeon and 60 series for Nvidia for digital media work. The discussion also touched on CPU basics, explaining that more cores (like accountants) allow for more number crunching, though this is less relevant for digital media work compared to graphics performance.
CPU Efficiency and Performance Discussion
Brian discussed CPU efficiency and explained that more cores don't necessarily mean faster performance, using the analogy of three people reading a book versus painting a wall. He explained the concept of hyperthreading, which effectively doubles the number of processing cores without increasing the core count, and demonstrated how to view CPU information in Windows task manager. Brian also compared different CPU manufacturers, describing AMD as a "sports car" (faster but more expensive), Intel as "Toyota" (more recognized and established), Snapdragon as the "new Chinese electric car" (energy-efficient but with software compatibility issues), and Apple as "Tesla" (sleek, expensive, and simple to use).
Laptop CPU Options and Recommendations
Brian discussed CPU options for laptops, explaining the differences between AMD and Intel processors. He recommended AMD as a more affordable option that is often faster than Intel, despite Intel's established reputation. Brian demonstrated how to read CPU model numbers and explained their significance, using Jada's Ryzen 9 4985H as an example to show that while it has high-tier branding, the specific generation and horsepower numbers matter for performance. The discussion included guidance on how to check CPU information in Windows task manager and the importance of understanding these details, especially when working with budget constraints.
CPU Generations and Naming Conventions
Brian led a discussion on understanding CPU generations and naming conventions, particularly focusing on Intel processors. He explained that newer generations (like i14) are better than older ones (like i7), even if they have similar horsepower, due to improved efficiency and features. Brian noted that Intel's recent change to "Core" and "Core Ultra" naming makes it more confusing for consumers, but recommended looking for i7 and above processors for good performance, while avoiding lower-tier options like Celeron and Pentium. The discussion included questions from participants about specific processors they have, with Brian advising that existing computers with i5 and above processors don't need immediate upgrades.
Computer Hardware Education Session
Brian conducted a computer hardware education session covering CPUs, RAM, and storage. He explained how to interpret computer specifications, particularly for AMD Ryzen processors, and discussed RAM pricing challenges due to AI companies purchasing large quantities. The session included practical examples of different storage types (HDD, SSD, and PCIe SSD/NVME) and their performance implications for tasks like running Photoshop. Brian assigned students a homework exercise to research and present computer purchase recommendations using virtual money, with a focus on understanding real performance differences between different hardware specifications.
Digital Design Module Class Overview
Brian conducted the first class of a digital design module, explaining computer specifications and requirements for different software programs. He clarified that Photoshop requires fast hard drives and processing power rather than high RAM, while web-based applications like Google Slides and Canva don't need significant local resources since processing happens remotely. As a class activity, students were tasked with finding a laptop within a $1500 budget that offers the best performance value, with the top three submissions to be reviewed for benchmarking purposes. Brian also announced that UTECH now provides student licenses for Adobe software through student email accounts, allowing free access to the latest versions including AI features, though students must coordinate with lab technicians to obtain and activate these licenses.
Attendees: Brian Williams (Organizer), Jevaughn Reddie (External), Jevaughn Reddie (External), Sheresa Steele (External), Danielle Williams (External), Danielle Williams (External), Caitlin Falconer (External), Danielle Williams (External), Danielle Williams (External), Danielle Williams (External), Joshua Willis (External), Jada Stewart (External), rose (External), Jada Stewart (External), Jevaughn Reddie (External), Danielle Williams (External), Ashley Mc Pherson (External), nicholas ximinnies (External), nicholas ximinnies (External), Danielle Williams (External), and 58 others.