Course Title: Digital Imaging

Part A: Course Overview

Course Title: Digital Imaging

Credit Points: 12.00

Terms

Course Code	Campus	Career	School	Learning Mode	Teaching Period(s)
VART2495	City Campus	Undergraduate	345H Media and Communication	Face-to-Face	Sem 1 2012, Sem 2 2012, Sem 2 2013, Sem 2 2014

Course Coordinator: Jennifer Lade

Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 99259674

Course Coordinator Email: jennifer.lade@rmit.edu.au

Course Coordinator Location: 14.11.02

Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities

This course is available to students of Bachelor of Design (Games) with the following prerequisite: Concept Art (VART2964).

Course Description

This elective course extends the practical and theoretical concepts in visual imaging gained in first year Imaging courses, with a specific focus on the use of imaging technology and software for video games. It will provide an introduction to intermediate skills and concepts around the design and execution of imaging for video games in the areas of texturing, environment and concept art. Intermediate software skills and concepts of visual design within a range of interactive entertainment platforms and scenarios will be practised. Emphasis will be placed on the development of practical skills and analytical understanding in relation to the use of imaging for video games.

Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development

Objectives:
Acquire practical knowledge and ability in the use of imaging for video games.
Demonstrate ability to use software tools to create imaging for video games.
Analyse and critically respond to imaging for video games in the contemporary context.

Capabilities:
Produce technical and conceptual professional level output relevant to game design, digital art, interactive entertainment, training and simulation.
Realise creative and innovative outcomes through the use of modeling, imaging and other tools in making games and interactive media content.
Develop knowledge of software to a professional standard and to be technically innovative and resourceful in approaching future versions of software in order to sustain your individual career.
Identify and articulate the requirements of a brief in order to produce appropriate structures and content to fulfill the brief.
Critically analyse and provide feedback on your own and other people outputs in relation to industry and academic standards.

Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

Demonstrate an intermediate level of visual imaging skills, both technical and conceptual.
Design and execute a series of imaging projects for specific use in a games environment to a level commensurate with contemporary cultural and technical expectations.
Analyse the conventions of visual design and be able to communicate this to other diverse practitioners. 

Overview of Learning Activities

You will study the use and execution of imaging within the context of digital games and broader interactive art and entertainment culture. The focus of studies will be the understanding, use and construction of images for use within digital games environments.  Presentations and screenings illustrating key concepts in imaging for digital games will be followed by group discussion and design activities. You will be expected to prepare for and contribute to class sessions via formal presentations and participation in discussion and technical skills exercises. To develop an intermediate level of technical and conceptual skill in imaging for digital games, you will be expected to create and analyse examples of imaging for digital games. The course includes work-integrated learning, with an emphasis on gaining real-world experience, creating relevant image assets for digital games in a studio setting.

Overview of Learning Resources

Studio classes will consist of a mixture of conceptual and practical tutorials with hands-on skill exercises within a studio environment. Online resources will also be provided to reinforce and extend these studio sessions. You will also engage in self-directed learning activities outside of class. Such activities involve iterative imaging exercises, research, reflection, planning, preparation and the development of your assignments. The lecturer will provide guidance in these self-directed learning acitivities.

Overview of Assessment

You will be assessed on your ability to effectively design and execute relevant imaging projects in the context of digital games and interactive art and entertainment. Assignments consist of in-class presentations of critical presentations, discussion, as well as ongoing creative projects.