Abstract

Technological changes have led to numerous advances in educational systems globally, particularly in relation to teaching and learning. For example, the use of Photoshop and Illustrator to enhance learning among visual communication design students yields better outcomes than traditional methods. This study attempted to use Illustrator and Photoshop design for teaching through an eighteen-week college design course integrated with digital learning. The study was conducted among ten students in a vocational technical college in Taiwan. Eventually, students were required to design posters by using the two computer graphics. The teacher conducted an assessment of their posters based on color, composition, and visuals. The rest of the students also voted on the quality of these final products. The findings suggest that Illustrator and Photoshop enhanced students’ creativity and attainment of learning objectives. However, some students faced challenges in creating quality products. Overall, no significant difference is observed between boys’ and girls’ posters. Generally, students’ creativity is enhanced and their design skills are improved when software such as Illustrator and Photoshop are used. It was also noted that future design classes are not necessarily required to follow the Illustrator-first-and-Photoshop-later sequence, leading to decreased software learning time and increased interaction time between teachers and students.