The Production and Prototyping module concerns the practice of developing a digital artefact using off-the-shelf development software and/or data sets. Students will learn to use existing mobile apps or games as exemplars and templates for the development of their own artefact – replicating functions, layouts, levels, characters, graphics, audio and mechanics.
Drawing on concepts and techniques learned in other design and programming modules, students will integrate work and knowledge into their production projects. They will learn how to produce and present functional prototypes and will also learn how to effectively use project management tools to organise, arrange and complete a collaborative group based project.
The focus of the module is the production of a fully functional artefact and it’s placement in an appropriate app store available for public download. User testing methods in the context of the module are examined and utilised, being a core part of the development process.
Introduction to software artefact design and scripting methodologies
Students will be introduced to the concept of both app and game development tools and methodologies.
Asset creation
Creating and importing assets for the artefact using a clear content development workflow and up-to-date tools.
Graphic and level design
Designing and implementing screen/level layouts using existing apps/games as exemplars. Analysing and deconstructing screens/levels in the exemplar to better understand the concepts of level design.
Mechanics and interaction scripting
Scripting complex behaviours and actions using development software, in keeping with the exemplar.
Game scripting using triggers and events
Creating scenarios using the AI system, and scripted objects. How gameplay is created with the interaction between events, triggers and game entities.
Planning and project management
Utilise off-the-shelf project management tools to plan, organise and build an artefact. The plan must consider and maximises the existing and emerging skill-set of all group members.
Testing and release
Understand the importance of testing and user feedback in the development process. Understand and deploy the digital artefact on a relevant digital platform.
Class time is split into a series of interactive “studio classroom” based lectures and practical problem solving in labs. In lectures, students present and describe their game design ideas, as well as explain the rationale behind their decisions.
Students will be expected to proactively and independently seek out resources on the internet and from the library to supplement their own learning in lectures. Students will be expected to spend time outside of the lectures learning the artefact development platform that will be used. This self-directed learning is key to students producing working designs and prototypes.
A Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) will be employed to distribute all teaching materials and to support student interaction with other students and academic staff. Where new material is not presented in lectures, such material will be made available through the VLE and students will be expected to proactively use this resource.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 100 |