Flash Animation: Making Immersive Online Experiences

By Sarah Clark
Animation School Directory Columnist

Flash animation is becoming increasingly prevalent on Web sites. According to Macromedia, the developer of Flash, the Flash software platform has reached 98 percent of internet-enabled desktops worldwide. Moreover, organizations are using Flash to create environments that hold the interest of internet surfers with games, instructive features, and other interactive user interfaces.

You've probably seen advertisements enticing you to participate in simple online video games, throwing a snowball at a moving target or punching out a light-footed boxer. These games were probably made with Flash animation software. Flash animation is a tool designed to help developers and designers create interactive graphics for Web sites as well as videos, DVDs, and CD-ROMs.

Becoming a Flash Wiz

Getting skilled in Flash is fairly simple. There are a variety of classes designed for people in various stages of Flash expertise. If you're completely new to Flash, you can take a course for beginners that will introduce you to the basics of creating graphics and animation and using Flash editor. The next level of Flash coursework may explore 3D effects, ActionScript (which enables you to program animated features and is often used to create online games), and exporting Quick Time movies into Flash.

Flash Courses

You can also take courses that deal exclusively with advanced animation design and production techniques that employ Flash. Learn how to develop graphics, edit them, and use them in a variety of multimedia productions, including web design.

To find classes in Flash animation, look for animation programs at art schools, community colleges, and universities. Learn about graphic design or animation programs offering instruction to bring you to the next level in your facility with Flash.

About the Author

Sarah Clark is a freelance writer based in Arlington, Virginia.