September 7th, 2001 #135 Inventing the future? I didn't quite know what I was getting myself into when I accepted the invitation to teach Introduction to Computer Graphics at James Madison University. Gosh, it's been more than ten years since I was in a full semester classroom setting. (The last time was teaching "Publication Design" at JMU.) Although I really enjoyed that experience, I've been comfortable with one-day, stand-up seminars and I didn't know how I would do with it. ___ But I recognized this unique opportunity and realized that no matter how full my schedule is I should go for it. First, it would put me back in touch with the academic community and get an important shot-in-the-arm of 'wassup' with the college crowd. Secondly, it would force me to hone my knowledge and skills, and make sure that I'm operating at my peak capabilities. Most importantly, it's an opportunity to take part in a tiny piece of the future. ___ With opportunity comes challenge. Picture if you will, the thought of teaching Photoshop, Illustrator, and Quark Xpress in one semester. That alone should scare you. Add to that the fact that our group is a mixture of skills ranging from Photoshop gurus, to complete neophytes in the same class. (Some are still learning click-and-drag and other basic techniques.) We have several seniors who need the class to graduate and the rest are sophomores on the graphic design track. Bring them into a cramped computer lab that by 4 PM has achieved about 90 degrees, and add a very poor projector in a dark room, and you've got a sure recipe for disaster. ___ GRPH #243: Introduction to Computer Graphics, now in its fourth session, is moving along splindidly. I'm quickly learning that many of the preconceptions about the college crowd are all wrong. These young folks are eager to learn -- they want to know everything. It's like a fresh, new page to paint on. Each session, I arrive a minute or so before class, and believe it or not, they're all sitting in their places -- some having already downloaded today's exercise files and are busy reading the syllabus. There are no slackers here -- only potential. ___ I'm reminded of the words of Allen Kay, visionary from the famed Xerox PARC, when he said: "How do you predict the future? You invent it." and I ask myself if these twenty-four students represent a real glimpse into the future of design. Some might continue in the graphic arts disciplines. Some might move on into other areas of the business or corporate world. Some may forsake the graphic arts all together. Who knows? Only time will tell. ___ Yet sitting here preparing to leave for today's class, there's one thing I'm sure of: there is real talent in that room -- perhaps even greatness. And, this single thought reinforces my commitment to hold up my end of the bargain -- to do my downright best to arm them with the tools and skills they'll need to take their places in the graphic arts community of tomorrow. Forget the work involved. How could I possibly pass up a chance to help invent the future. ...on location in the Harrison Lab #4, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA Good day. Fred Showker is a designer, consultant, writer and speaker. He has published 60-Second Window and DT&G Magazine online since 1990, and is director of The Graphic Design Network which includes The Design & Publishing Center at www.Graphic-Design.com. (1994) He was a co-founder of both The User Group Forum on America Online (1987), The User Group Network at www.User-Groups.net, (1994) and the Designers' Bookshelf (1996) He originally founded Showker Graphic Arts & Design in 1972, has been an avid computer activist and supporter since 1984. 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