This module introduces you to the 3D virtual environments that games, interactive stories, simulations and other forms of immersive interactive media are set within. In lectures, you’ll learn about how 3D virtual environments work from a technical perspective — studying topics including representing indoor and outdoor scenes, cameras, lighting, collision detection, 3D audio and even some basic AI. You’ll also learn learn how to design your environments so that they guide the user and present a narrative, and have a chance to build on your 3D modelling skills to incorporate animation. In practical classes you’ll put this knowledge into action by creating your own fully functioning interactive environments in the Unity game engine.
Module will run
Occurrence
Teaching cycle
A
Spring Term 2020-21
Module aims
To provide a realistic forum in which students can explore the aesthetic and
practical application of visual and audio media production systems, to fulfill creative objectives.
To further develop and apply the theoretical and practical principles behind media
production technologies introduced in Year 1.
To introduce students to the theoretical and practical principles behind the design and development of interactive media environments.
Module learning outcomes
Subject content
Demonstrate knowledge of aesthetic and practical applications of visual and audio media production systems for interactive media environments.
Demonstrate how scientific image, sound and 3D graphics concepts taught in Year 1 can be translated into interactive media production practice.
Demonstrate and apply knowledge of the theoretical and practical principles underpinning the design and development of interactive media environments.
Academic and graduate skills
Demonstrate ability to synthesize multiple media types into a single interactive media experience or system.
Demonstrate ability to evaluate the technical and aesthetic quality of visual and audio assets for interactive media experiences and systems.
Demonstrate ability to analyze and chose appropriate media production approaches and media types in a given problem domain.
Assessment
Task
Length
% of module mark
Essay/coursework Prototype interactive virtual environment and 2500 word report
N/A
100
Special assessment rules
None
Reassessment
Task
Length
% of module mark
Essay/coursework Prototype interactive virtual environment and 2500 word report
N/A
100
Module feedback
Students will receive individual oral feedback for the weekly practical lab sessions, during the lab sessions.
Students will receive written feedback on coursework assignments using a proforma identifying key requirements and marks awarded for sections of the assignment. This will be available 20 working days after submission, except in exceptional circumstances which will be communicated to the students.
Indicative reading
Indicative books:
Chopine, A. 3D Art Essentials: The Fundamentals of 3D Modeling, Texturing, and Animation. 2011, 978-0240814711.
Horowitz, S. The Essential Guide to Game Audio: The Theory and Practice of Sound for Games. 2014, 978-0415706704.
Williams, R. The Animator's Survival Kit: A Manual of Methods, Principles and Formulas for Classical, Computer, Games, Stop Motion and Internet Animators. 2012, 978- 0865478978.
Hughes, et al. Computer Graphics: Principles and Practice (3rd Edition). 2013, 978- 0321399526.
Eberly, D. Game Physics. 2010, 978-0123749031.
Goldstone, W. Unity 3.X Game Development Essentials. 2011, 978-1849691444.