FD (Arts) Digital Media and Games Design

Module: 4DM043

Credits: 20

Period: 1

Type: Core

Locations: Heart of Worcestershire College

This module will allow learners to develop a game cut-scene or 3D animated sequence via creating original contact and editing it into an effective post-production sequence using industry standard software. To best carry out this process, learners will construct a detailed study examining and evaluating the function and importance of video sequences within film, television and games. This will give a broad understanding of the implementation of narrative and the correlation of types of storytelling between the different media genres.

Module: 4DM040

Credits: 20

Period: 1

Type: Core

Locations: Heart of Worcestershire College

This module will enable learners to design and make 3D environment assets and other static objects using industry standard tools. Alongside this, learners will also use other software to create materials and other asset types. Students will learn to incorporate these elements into a game engine, where objects will be suitably lit to compliment the styling of the constructed environment.

Module: 4DM041

Credits: 20

Period: 1

Type: Core

Locations: Heart of Worcestershire College

This module will introduce learners to game design balancing strategies. Students will be asked to research into theories of gameplay balancing and progression within games. Students will then be asked to design the core structure of a game with a balanced gaming experience. Students will be given the option of incorporating story progression; a logical learning curve; and emergent gameplay from student chosen core mechanics.

Module: 4DM042

Credits: 20

Period: 1

Type: Core

Locations: Heart of Worcestershire College

This module will introduce learners to creating 2D graphics for digital media products. Students will be asked to create an online presence through the construction of an online portfolio and accompanied graphic design elements. The focus of this module is to give students’ the opportunity to create visually appealing and logical graphics; and develop professional techniques that can be used in a selection digital media. Students will also need to decide on how they wish to present their course work and target methods that will allow them to focus on potential pathways into the media industry of their choosing.

Module: 4DM039

Credits: 20

Period: 1

Type: Core

Locations: Heart of Worcestershire College

This module aims to introduce you to elementary techniques and concepts in computer game interactivity. Students will be given the opportunity to use professional game engines to create interactions with the user; player character; and enemy A.I. Focus will be on functional interfaces and logical game mechanics to enhance a users’ experience.

Module: 4DM029

Credits: 20

Period: 1

Type: Core

Locations: Heart of Worcestershire College

A work-based learning module that will allow the learner, in conjunction with external consultants, to undertake live projects from an initial client proposal through to a finished pitch/presentation closely following the conditions of a real life working brief. The learners will experience working with consultants on all aspects of the project and gain knowledge of industry standard software and hardware in the creation of photomontage and 3D visualisation. Learners will also benefit from following established practices used in the work place such as working to deadlines and presentation skills.This module has links with: Introduction to Asset Creation & Interaction in Games

Module: 5DM048

Credits: 20

Period: 2

Type: Core

Locations: Heart of Worcestershire College

The module will give students the opportunity to impress and create a complex 3D model which can be used to express their most advanced achievements. Students will be asked to apply all the knowledge that they have learnt over their previous years of study and to enhance this knowledge through researched workflows and techniques.

Module: 5DM047

Credits: 20

Period: 2

Type: Core

Locations: Heart of Worcestershire College

This module will allow students to construct a 3D character that will be playable within an industry standard game engine. Accuracy and creativity will be needed to construct the character in preparation for the inclusion of a skeletal structure which will allow the inclusion of animation. Once achieved the ability to walk, run and jump will be possible.

Module: 5DM049

Credits: 20

Period: 2

Type: Core

Locations: Heart of Worcestershire College

This module will allow the learner to examine how emerging technologies can be used in a practical way in an industry outside of games. This will come in the form of a live brief. Learners will use software that they have used successfully in other modules in an alternative manner to carry out different requirements. They will further extent their knowledge by applying more advanced methods of interaction through the likes of VR and AR. Other emerging technologies may also be covered as technology continues to evolve.

Module: 5DM046

Credits: 20

Period: 2

Type: Core

Locations: Heart of Worcestershire College

This module will allow learners to draw upon knowledge learnt from modules 4DM039 Interaction in Games, 4DM041 Game Structures and 4DM040 Game Modelling. Students will be given the task of creating a visual, story driven or technical prototype depending on where the students’ interests lie. The aim is to allow students to creatively develop a concept and will be given the option of expressing their skills through experimentation of core mechanics; 3D modelling; 2D design; and/or game engine tools.

Module: 5DM035

Credits: 20

Period: 2

Type: Core

Locations: Heart of Worcestershire College

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This module will enable learners to work on a group project which will involve producing a design document covering aspects such as: Production planning, workflow, resourcing, functionality specifications, research, planning, sketching etc. The group will be divided into relevant jobs ie Team leader, artist, modeller, programmer, marketer, sound design. The module could relate to a game or interactive media project