Autodesk has launched Animation Academy 2009, the latest version of its visual communications offering for secondary schools worldwide. The six-part curriculum introduces students to 3D animation and visual effects technology while immersing them in core academic subjects such as science, math, language and arts. For the first time, Animation Academy includes Autodesk Mudbox digital sculpting software and Autodesk MotionBuilder character animation software, along with the Autodesk 3ds Max and Autodesk Maya modeling, animation and rendering software.

"Autodesk Animation Academy is easy to understand, offers measurable objectives for student evaluation, and fulfills my school district's requirements for increased academic integration. My students are reinforcing their knowledge of core subject areas, while at the same time learning valuable career skills," said 3D animation instructor Pat Gombarcik of the Arts & Communications Academy and Southeast Career Technical Academy in Nevada.

Animation Academy 2009 adheres to numerous academic standards, including those of the International Technology Education Association and the United States' STEM standards for science, technology, math and engineering. The curriculum includes comprehensive project-based lessons on astronomy, architecture, the digestive system, weather systems, forensics and an independent study.

For further information on Animation Academy 2009, visit www.autodesk.com/pr-animationacademy.