Approaches to Visual Communications Subject Content in the Training of Graphic Designers

The purpose of the paper lies in outlining new approaches to the content ofthe Graphic Communications subject. The research methodology comprises general scientific and special methods. General scientific methods include the methods of objectivity, functionality, comparative analysis, descriptive method, the methods of generalisation and systematisation. Specific methods used, namely a group of pedagogical methods, are organisation of educational process, task-based learning, lecturing, research methods, and creative method. Scientific novelty of the research. The paper presents the author’s interpretation of the thematic content of Visual Communications subject in the process of training graphic designers. In particular, the researcher suggests adding both classical and effectual topics since they reveal the essence of the subject, as well as give the description of the topics that many syllabi developers use. The range of topics has been broadened due to the legal aspect of functioning of information and publishing. Besides, the paper explains the subject terminology, studies the main principles of the graphic designer developing a project, presents a student’s creative realisation of their own project on the chosen aspect of visual communications. Conclusions. The author has revealed that only a part of domestic university syllabi on graphic design include Visual Communications subject, which is called in a variety of ways. He has outlined the key trends of themes in the syllabi, suggested the pedagogical approach of theoretical and practical mastering of the subject content, as well as broadened the range of themes and altered the thematic structure of the subject. The suggested thematic structure includes legal aspect of a graphic designer’s activity. 
Key words: design, graphic designer training, visual communications.