OVERVIEW

This course introduces the fundamental principles and techniques for developing computer graphics and data visualization applications. The course has a theoretical-practical focus and is aimed at providing basic knowledge and acquiring the ability to use libraries and software tools to develop simple interactive applications. The course also provides the basis for addressing (in subsequent classes) related topics of greater complexity, such as geometric modeling and virtual reality

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Acquire basic knowledge of event-driven programming. Understand how 2D and 3D computer graphics systems work. Acquire the basic tools for creating interactive 2D and 3D computer graphics programs. 

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course aims to:

• Provide both theoretical and practical knowledge to develop interactive applications that include 2D graphics output and/or data visualization;
• Provide theoretical knowledge underlying 3D graphics and dedicated hardware (GPU).
• Introduce the use of tools for developing 3D graphics applications.

At the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Understand the fundamental principles of Event-Driven Programming (EDP).
• Understand the fundamental principles of 2D and 3D computer graphics.
• Develop simple interactive 2D and 3D graphics applications.

PREREQUISITES

Imperative and object-oriented programming (C++ or similar languages)

Linear algebra (vectors and matrix calculus)

TEACHING METHODS

Lectures (approximately half of the course)

Guided lab sessions (the other half): the exercises will preferably take place in the classroom using the students' personal computers.

Students who hold valid certificates relating to Specific Learning Difficulties (SLD), disabilities or other educational needs are invited to contact the lecturer and the school’s disability liaison officer at the start of the course to agree on any teaching arrangements which, whilst respecting the course objectives, take into account individual learning styles. 

The contact details for the university’s disability liaison officer are available at the following link: https://unige.it/commissioni/comitatoperlinclusionedeglistudenticondisabilita. 

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

• General Computer Graphics and Its Applications
• The Event-Driven Programming (EDP) Paradigm
• Interactive 2D Graphics: Examples of Applications with an EDP Library
• 3D Graphics: Ray Tracing and Rasterization Paradigms
• 3D Graphics: In-Depth Analysis of GPUs and the Rasterization Paradigm
• Examples of Interactive 3D Graphics Applications
• Throughout the course: standard techniques and tools for developing structured C++ applications

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Textbooks are not strictly necessary. Most of the material will be provided by the instructor or available online. It is essential to attend lectures and labs and take notes, which are the main study material.

For further information:

• Steve Marschner, Peter Shirley, Fundamentals of Computer Graphics, Fourth Edition, CRC Press

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

According to the calendar approved by the Degree Program Board:https://easyacademy.unige.it/portalestudenti/index.php?view=easycourse&_lang=it&include=corso

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

Final project and oral exam:

• The project involves the development of an interactive 2D or 3D graphics application on a topic chosen by the student and approved by the instructors.
• The oral exam consists of a discussion of the project and questions related to the topics covered in class.

Guidelines for students with certified Specific Learning Disorders, disabilities, or other special educational needs are available at https://corsi.unige.it/en/corsi/8759/studenti-disabilita-dsa

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The final project is designed to assess the student's practical skills in relation to the libraries and software systems covered in the guided exercises.

The oral exam is designed to assess the student's knowledge of the topics covered in the lectures, as well as the skills acquired independently during the project development.

FURTHER INFORMATION

For further information, please refer to the course’s AulaWeb module or contact the instructor.

Students with valid certifications for Specific Learning Disorders (SLD) may request accommodations for exams at least 7 days prior to the exam date by filling out the “accommodation request form” (available via online services at https://modulionline.unige.it/richiesta-adattamenti# no-back), which will be automatically forwarded by the system to the instructor in charge of the course and to the faculty liaison for students with disabilities and SLDs in their School/Department. 

The student will receive a copy of their request.