MART 490 (Honors): Serious Games and Digital Ecologies
NOTE: This special topics honors course was offered in Spring 2009. This page is kept here as a reference, but does not refer to a class currently scheduled.
  • What are the prerequisites for "Serious Games and Digital Ecology"?
    Sincere, deep interest in video gaming is the only prerequisite. Prior programming and digital media aptitude is not necessary, skills will be acquired as needed. Also, students considering this course should not be afraid of computers.
  • What's the deal?
    The myth is that "Serious Games" are merely games for learning or training purposes, but this label ignores the larger possibilities of the fastest growing sub-field of electronic entertainment. If we think about so-called serious games broadly as highly stylized simulations that use digital media for a specific targeted purpose, we can imagine an expanded field of game-based experiences... for change, for good, for persuasion, and beyond.
    In this class, we will begin to taxonomize the field, find its boundaries (however fuzzy), become a part of the international community of game theorists and developers, and most importantly... make something.
  • Mmmm...kay. But what will we DO?
    In this class, we will design and build "serious games" (broadly writ) to explore different ways to interface with, probe, alter, feel, and perhaps *know* one's environment. (In this context, "environment" is as all-encompassing a concept as "serious" or "game.")
  • The class is full. Will you override me into the class?
    Maybe. But we don't want to break fire codes.So...
    1.) Contact me and let me know if you can't get in.
    2.) Watch VIP and show up the first day or two.
  • I'm not a MART major or minor. Can I take it anyway?
    Absolutely!
  • I don't know how to [$skill], can I take the course? (where $skill = use photoshop, program, use a camera, walk and chew gum at the same time...)
    Anything you'll need, you'll be able to pick up. Anything you have, you'll be able to use. This is the way of the world.
  • Any other unsolicited advice?
    Always!
    If you think you have a laptop, bring it.
    If you have a smartphone, bring it.
    If you have a DS, bring it.
    If you use a Mac, install the Xcode Developer tools (they came with your operating system).
    Please feel free to email me at the address below should you have more questions!