Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - IAT 343 D100

Animation (4)

Class Number: 6363

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Mon, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Surrey

  • Instructor:

    Sessional

  • Prerequisites:

    Minimum of 24 units, including MATH 130 or MACM 101 or MATH 150 or MATH 151 or MATH 154 or MATH 157, with a minimum grade of C-.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to techniques for 3D computer animation such as keyframing, performance animation, procedural methods, motion capture, and simulation. The course also includes an overview of story-boarding, scene composition, lighting and sound track generation. The course will explore current research topics in computer animation such as facial animation, behavioral animation, artificial life and interactive systems.

COURSE DETAILS:

An introduction to techniques for 3D computer animation such as 3D modeling, 3D rendering, keyframing, performance animation, procedural methods, motion capture and simulation. The course also includes an overview of storyboarding, scene composition, cinematography and visual effects. The course will explore current research topics in computer graphics and animation such as Physically Based Rendering, programmable shaders, facial animation, behavioral animation and their use in artificial life and interactive systems.  Creative concepts and analysis in Animation as media art will be developed through course readings, screenings, discussion and activities. If tutorials and Labs are held online (the course is planned for in person so far) a newer computer with 16 GB+ RAM with a good CPU is required, tablet computers or older laptops won't meet the requirements. The course uses Autodesk Maya - so please check if that will work on your computer. Labs will cover modeling, texturing, rendering, rigging and animation. The course has a perpetual Discord server for support and discussions.

Course outcomes include a portfolio of creative project work and a short animation production.

Grading

  • Final Team Project 40%
  • 3 Quizzes 15%
  • 3 Individual 3D CGI assignments 30%
  • Class and Lab Participation/Reviews 15%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Students may wish to download the educational version of Maya, along with supplemental tools.

RECOMMENDED READING:

“The Art of 3-D Computer Animation and Effects” (2009) by Isaac Victor Kerlow; 4th Edition; Wiley ISBN: 9780470084908

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.