Course curriculum

  • 1

    Session 1: Exploring TouchDesigner’s Interface and Workflow

    • Identify and navigate the key components of the TouchDesigner interface.

    • Understand the purpose and use of operator families (TOPs, CHOPs, SOPs, DATs, COMPs).

    • Establish efficient workflow habits including project organization and preview methods.

    • Exercise: Create a basic network using at least one node from each operator family
  • 2

    Session 2: Mastering Texture Operators (TOPs) for Creative Image Processing

    • Apply compositing, blending, and transformation techniques using TOPs.

    • Manipulate real-time video or static images through layered processing.

    • Understand resolution and performance trade-offs in image processing.

    • Exercise: Build a dynamic visual using a live video feed
  • 3

    Session 3: Advanced Signal Processing with Channel Operators (CHOPs)

    • Use CHOPs to process and control signals in real time.

    • Create audio-reactive systems that affect visuals or parameters dynamically.

    • Combine multiple CHOPs for complex behavior using math and logic operations.

    • Exercise: Create an audio-reactive system
  • 4

    Session 4: Constructing and Rendering 3D Geometry with Surface Operators (SOPs)

    • Build and manipulate 3D geometry using SOPs and CHOPs together.

    • Apply materials, lights, and cameras to create a compelling scene.

    • Render 3D content with an understanding of performance optimization.

    • Exercise: Design a 3D scene using at least 3 SOPs
  • 5

    Session 5: Designing Interactive User Interfaces with Component Operators (COMPs)

    • Develop interactive UI elements like sliders, buttons, and toggles using COMPs.

    • Route UI outputs to control parameters in the visual scene.

    • Organize components into reusable UI modules.

    • Exercise: Create a UI with sliders and buttons to control parameters
  • 6

    Session 6: Integrating Scripting for Dynamic Content Creation

    • Use Python scripting to manipulate operators and automate actions.

    • Create interactive scripts that react to user inputs or triggers.

    • Understand how to debug and test Python scripts within DATs.

    • Exercise: Write a Python script that changes the color or texture of a 3D object
  • 7

    Session 7: Incorporating External Devices for Enhanced Interactivity

    • Connect and configure MIDI, OSC, or sensor devices with TouchDesigner.

    • Map external device inputs to CHOP channels for real-time control.

    • Create adaptive experiences that respond to human interaction or motion.

    • Exercise: Connect a MIDI controller or simulate input using a LFO CHOP
  • 8

    Session 8: Final Project Presentation and Optimization Strategies

    • Present an interactive visual project incorporating techniques from previous sessions.

    • Apply optimization strategies for smooth real-time playback.

    • Receive and apply peer and instructor feedback to refine the project.

    • Exercise: Present your final project (3–5 minutes)