Computer Graphics: New Horizons in the Education of Lighting Designers and Engineers

The development of computer graphics programs (CGP) and their widespread introduction into the practice of designing indoor and outdoor lighting with the ability to visualize the projected object has led to the fact that the design engineer simultaneously performs the functions of a designer. Similarly, designers creating artistic light images that previously assumed the selection and adjustment of light on the spot are now forced to select real lighting devices using PKG, which requires professional engineering knowledge. It determines the objective basis for creating a new specialty – light designer. However, the systems of engineering and art education have almost no common methodological foundations. We propose a method of teaching based on the use of PCG in the educational process, which will be able to combine both educational systems into a single specialty. The methodology is based on the joint project created with the teacher in CGP, collective discussion, and defense of the developed projects. It allows engineers to explain the created artistic images, and designers to explain the influence of the characteristics of light fields and parameters of lighting devices on the image. The results of test sessions among students in both areas of study are discussed. The thinking features of each student group and the possibility of developing a unified approach to design are analyzed.