Centennial Media - Illustrator CS

It seems at times that technology has invaded our lives. There are computers in our DVDs, our microwaves, washing machines and even our mobile phones. At school we get no relief from the digital mayhem.

We think that it is rather ironic that there seems to be a reduction in training in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) despite the Department’s obsession with technology. This is particularly true now that Technology in Teaching and Learning (TILT) is no more.

However, all is not lost. Centennial Media have produced a vast array of training programs to support educators in their quest for affordable ICT training options. We looked at one of Centennial Media’s latest offerings, Training CDs for Illustrator CS Volumes 1-3. For those who unfamiliar with the program, Adobe Illustrator CS, is one of the most complex vector graphics programs on the market today. This comment is not meant to be a slight on the program as Adobe Illustrator CS is the industry standard and performs the most complex tasks efficiently. For anyone wishing to enter the graphics industry this is the program to use.

The package we reviewed contains 3 CD-ROMs with 6 hours of training and features Cari Jensen, Adobe Solutions Network-Certified Training Provider. CD-ROM 1 contains an introduction to the Illustrator environment as well as the drawing tools, lessons on basic shapes and paths and aligning. CD-ROM 2 contains lessons on working with colour, gradients, transformation, patterns and layers. CD-ROM 3 deals with using brushes, symbols, effects and filters, working with type, 3D shapes, graphs, saving and exporting, web graphics and printing.

Cari took us through simple tasks such as using the drawing tools, creating basic shapes and editing paths to more complex functions such as working with gradient meshes, effects and filters and masking. Each of these tasks was demonstrated through Quicktime movies accompanied by Cari’s step-by-step narration. The CD-ROM contains sample files so that the user can follow Cari through each lesson.

We found it was a simple process to open the sample tutorial file in Adobe Illustrator CS, start the training program, and switch between programs as we listened to Cari.

Another feature of the training package that schools will like is the licensing aspect. Buy one copy of the training program and you have a site licence. This means that the program can be installed on a network server and teachers and students within the school can access the training at their convenience.

We have to admit to a slight bias towards Centennial Media. This Australian company is at the forefront of ICT training. Also we have used these quality programs before and found that they make it possible for even the novice user to master the most complex programs. Training CDs for Illustrator CS Volumes 1-3 is just one offering from Centennial Media. For those who are interested, it may be worth investigating Centennial Media’s web site for their latest training packages.

Software supplied for review by Centennial Media. Software reviewed by Rosemary McDowall and Bill Gillespie. Rosemary teaches at Mosman HS and Bill teaches at Seaforth PS. They can be contacted at computer_corner2000@yahoo.com