Ludic Engagement Designs for All: LEDA 2007
29-30 November 2007
Aalborg University Esbjerg, Denmark

The conference will focus on user’s interactive, play and learning experiences in relation to toys and games discussing concepts and characteristics of aesthetics and design in relation to the ludic engagement.

More info on the event can be found at http://www.aaue.dk/~tonybrooks/LEDA/

The 2nd qualifier for the world cybergames competition will be in conjunction with GameCon in Dublin.

Date: Friday 17th – Sunday 19th August 2007
Time: TBC
Venue: Griffith College Conference Centre, South Circular Road, Dublin 8
Capacity: 250 participants
Event site: www.gamecon.ie
Venue site: www.conferencecenter.ie

Ludic Engagement Designs for All: LEDA 2007
29-30 November 2007
Aalborg University Esbjerg, Denmark

LEDA 2007 have confirmed four keynote speakers for their November conference along with their second call for papers.

The conference will focus on user’s interactive, play and learning experiences in relation to toys and games discussing concepts and characteristics of aesthetics and design in relation to the ludic engagement.

LEDA 2007 promises to be an informal and highly interactive symposium with distinguished invited speakers and session leaders on specific topics, and demonstrations. A cross-disciplinary event it will be organized around presentations of empirical, theoretical and methodological nature which will be supplemented by interactive sessions and demos.

Keynote speakers confirmed are:

* Caroline Hummels: PhD and researcher at the Technical University of Eindhoven, Department of Industrial Design, Designing Quality in Interaction
* Katie Salen: Executive Director of the non-profit organization Gamelab Institute of Play, as well as an Associate Professor in the Design and Technology program, Parsons the New School for Design
* Patrice Chazerand: Secretary General of the Interactive Software Federation of Europe (ISFE)
* Staffan Selander: PhD, Professor at Stockholm Institute of Education and head of the research group DidaktikDesign

The symposium will be held in parallel with the International Conference on Artificial Reality and Telexistence (ICAT 2007) and the International Conference ArtAbilitation 2007.

The deadline for submissions of papers and/or interactive sessions is 15th August 2007.

More info on the event can be found at http://www.aaue.dk/~tonybrooks/LEDA/

Early bird rate ends at Midnight GMT on Tuesday 31st July 2007

The Edinburgh Interactive Festival offers you the chance to join leading figures from Sony, Nintendo, Microsoft, EA, Eidos, SCi, BBC, Gamestation, Virgin, Rare, 19, Endemol, Ubisoft, Linden Labs and many others for two days of networking, conference, screenings and discussion.

Conference kicks off on Monday 13th August with a keynote from Ubisoft President Yves Guillemot. On Tuesday 14th August the packed event also plays host to the Edinburgh Interactive Game Screenings. There’s the prestigious EDGE Award, plus a networking reception at 6.30pm on the first day. There are also major speeches from the BBC, 19, Endemol, Sony and others.

The interactive festival is part of the wider Edinburgh arts and culture festival and the final winenrs of the Dare to be Digital competition will be announced around this time also.

For a full programme of speeches, events and to ensure your registration, visit www.edinburghinteractivefestival.com.

The Post-graduate Diploma at Letterkenny IT is a one year (two semester) taught programme in computing which focuses on topics applicable to the computer games programming and development industry. Its aim is to take a computing graduate, or graduate with equivalent qualifications, and supplement their skills and knowledge in readiness to begin a career in computer games development.

The subjects covered on the post-graduate diploma are:

Semester 1:
Games Programming 1
The Mathematics and Physics of Game Environments
Game Design
3D Animation and 3D Modelling

Semester 2:
Games Programming 2
Game Technologies and Entrepreneurship
Team Project
2D and 3D Graphics

The core programming language used in the course is C++. After a quick review of topics such as the STL and data structures the programming elements of the course focuses on OpenGL and DirectX. The Animation subject uses 3DS-Max and the Torc Instinct Engine. When developing the course we worked closely with industry and this cooperation has continued into the delivery of the course. For example, Mark Cullen, from Torc Interactive is delivering the Game Design module and a number of industry players are giving guest lectures and talks. The Team Project will allow students to enhance their portfolio or potential employers and an Entrapreneurship element has been added in recognition of the fact that some graduates
will aspire to set up their own games companies. The college is keen to work with and facilitate such graduates.

To attain the Masters qualification an additional dissertation component must be completed. The dissertation will offer the student the opportunity to demonstrate extended knowledge and abilities in areas suggested by topics covered in the Post-graduate Diploma. The dissertation will be agreed during the initial taught phase of the course to allow the student to undertake background research over the summer break. After the summer break the dissertation will normally be completed over one full-time semester (September to Christmas) although it may be completed part-time over two semesters (September to Easter).

Entry Requirements
Admission to this programme will be by standard application procedure for Post-graduate programmes. The requirement for entry to the proposed programme will be an Honours Degree in Computing with first, or second class honours, or an equivalent qualification. Applicants will be required to attend an interview.

Progression Requirements
To continue from the Post-graduate Diploma in Computer Games Development to the Master of Science in Computer Games Development the candidate must obtain a passing grade in each module plus a 50% average mark over the 8 taught modules of the Post-graduate Diploma.

For further information please see the college web site at www.lyit.ie or email
thomas.dowling@lyit.ie

Students of many disciplines are seeing the potential of new and interactive media as a tool for exploring and expanding traditional fields. The MSc. in Multimedia at Dublin City University intends to facilitate these people and provides training for postgraduates in development of interactive products for many platforms. <br /><br />Modules of relevance to games development include “Dramatic Authoring for the Web”, “Multimedia Sound and Music” and “Authoring for Multimedia”. These explore character development and user engagement with narrative, soundtrack aesthetics and psychoacoustics and object oriented programming for multimedia respectively. <br /><br />Production focused modules are integrated with theory based modules which explore a wide variety of media from film to TV and games, giving the students a broad source for critical understanding of multimedia.<br /><br />Production work is done in a cross platform (PC/Mac/Web) environment using, among other programs, Director, Flash, Pro Tools LE, Final Cut Pro, Adobe Photoshop, Cinema 4D and After Effects.<br /><br />The course lasts 1 year and can accommodate 25 students each year. Three graduates from the course are now involved in games related research or work. <br /><br />There is a final project requirement that in the past has included proposals for networked or online games; cd-rom productions, installations and DVD based products.<br /><br />There is no part time option and the only link the course has with the games industry is by association with STeM, the Centre for Society, Media and Technology at D.C.U. who are responsible for the gamedevelopers.ie online resource. <br /><br />Essentials:<br /><br />Location: Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9.<br /><br />Course: MSc. in Multimedia<br /><br />Duration: 1 year<br /><br /><br />Course Strengths: <br />Interactive design, theory of narrative & traditional media, broad media basis, object oriented approach to web programming for Shockwave and Flash.<br /><br />Course Weaknesses:<br />No study of more commonly used games programming languages (C++, OpenGL, JAVA).<br /><br />More info: <LINK><ADDRESS>http://www.dcu.ie</ADDRESS><LTEXT>www.dcu.ie</LTEXT></LINK>

If you have completed an undergraduate course and would like to turn your attention towards the gaming industry there are a variety of postgraduate courses with an emphasis on the field of interactive digital media. The MSc. in Multimedia Technology at TCD is one such course.

The entry requirements state that “good honours graduates from any discipline” are admitted. In conversation with course co-ordinator, Nina Bresnihan, we were told that a 2:1 result from an undergraduate degree is a good level to aim for, although applicants have been accepted with lower results based upon individual merit. Successful applicants have come from many different backgrounds, some with a specific interest in games development.

The course appears to have a distinct bias towards web-based multimedia and in the past some graduates have founded successful multimedia web design companies. However, Ms. Bresnihan pointed out that the course is currently evolving with students this year commencing a module in Interactive 3-D. This new module includes study of VRML and Shockwave 3D – both used to deliver 3-D gaming experiences over the web.

Although some groups have created online games for their final project , we could not trace any graduates who have become games developers. At present there are no notable games industry links with this course.

All modules on the course are compulsory. The modules of most relevance include Java Programming, Graphics Processing, Digital Audio, the Interactive 3-D module already mentioned and the study of interactive narrative.

Aside from the final project, a thesis is expected from every participant in March. While subject matter of this must be approved, the range of topics covered is very wide, therefore scope is available for research into game related topics.

There are 30 places on this course each year and applications should be sent to the Graduate Admissions Offices at TCD. The course is available on a full-time basis only.

Essentials:
Location: Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland.
Course: MSc. In Multimedia Technologies
Duration: 1 year full-time
Course Strengths:
Study of 3-D with a strong bias towards web delivery, large emphasis on theory, study of interactive narrative, digital audio.
Course Weaknesses:
Little or no games-related industrial input, minimal focus on console and PC gaming.
More Info: www.cs.tcd.ie/courses/mscmm

Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology is one of many third level institutions in Ireland to have embraced the emerging discipline of multimedia. The National Diploma in Computing at Dun Laoghaire is a three year computing course during which students specialise in multimedia production. Students can opt to do an additional one year if they wishs to obtain a degree.

Modules of relevance to games developers include Multimedia Authoring and Multimedia Communications. A lot of programming in Action Script and Lingo is covered, indicating a strong emphasis on the web as the interactive medium. Maths is studied as a tool for conceptualization and 3D modelling.

3D Studio Max, Director and Flash are the three major pieces of authorware available to students and taught on the course. Students who take the 1 year add-on B.Sc. course cover OpenGL – the graphics programming language behind many windows games. There are no optional modules on the course.

We spoke to Rupert Westrup at Dun Laoghaire who, while unable to say if any graduates have gone to work in games development, did say that many of the final projects submitted by students are shockwave or flash games. Of these various examples include flight sims, driving games, first person shooters and multi-user network games. Some students have also applied their programming skills to visualizations, for example simulating the movement of a flock of birds.

The courses have had some input from the staff at Havok in the form of guest lectures and consultation with students but industry links are sparse.

Overall, the computing courses at Dun Laoghaire provide a good basis for an aspiring web developer and many of the programming concepts which could be applied to gaming.

Essentials:
Location: Kill Avenue, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin, Ireland
Course: BSc. In Computing (Multimedia)
Duration: 4 years
Course Strengths:
Provides students with the skills needed to program games for the web as well as core programming skills transferable to other media. A good all-round course with design and business content also.

Course weaknesses:
There are no major games industry links. The course does not produce games, rather multimedia programmers, who could transfer their skils to the games market.

Launched in September 2003, the North West Institute for Further and Higher Education in Derry (NWIFHE) offers a one year Higher National Certificatein Interactive Computing Entertainment (ICE). It is aimed at students who wish to work in the computer games industry. Stuents get to work use Torc Interactive’s Instinct Engine.

Structure
Induction (To include introduction to games industry and history)
3D Game Project (Value 2 Units) Spans 2 semesters and culminates in 3D game demo with audio.
Semester 1 (4 single value units)
Introduction to Programming for Games
Mathematics for Games Programming
2D Graphics and Engine Tools
Computer Game Fundamentals
Semester 2 (4 single value units)
Development Using 3D Engine
3D Game Programming
3D Computer Graphics for Games
Computer Music Production
Description of units
INTRODUCTION TO PROGRAMMING FOR GAMES
An understanding of the general principles and concepts of programming underpins much of the knowledge in any course in computing or IT.
Being a core unit, this seeks to provide the fundamental ideas and opportunities to develop and reinforce basic programming skills. Students will develop programs of increasing complexity, using Microsoft Visual C++. The skills learned are transferable to other areas within the ICT industry but will be geared towards programming sprite based platform games. In doing so, students will become familiar with all the concepts involved in programming games.
MATHEMATICS FOR GAMES PROGRAMMING
This unit is an introduction to some of the mathematical concepts and techniques which will be required by games programmers. To develop the mathematical skills necessary for games programming the following areas are covered:
– Understand number systems and their role in games programming
– Gain an understanding of the elementary techniques of algebra and geometry:
Introduce the ideas of matrices and vectors and define the abstract structure of a vector space:
– Gain an understanding of the mathematical concepts and methods used for games programming:
– Interpret sets and propositions given in mathematical notation.
– Understand the use of Exponentials in games programming
– The unit aims are to allow the student to appreciate the mathematical knowledge required for games programming and prepare him/her for more advanced concepts of mathematics in relation to games programming.

2D Graphics and Engine Tools
The aim of this unit is twofold: to create and manipulate 2D digital graphics and sprites and to use these in a 2D engine to produce a simple game.
This will involve
– Accessing, handling and working with images.
– Demonstrating the ability to use image manipulation tools and techniques.
– Demonstrating the ability to manipulate images in a 2D game development tool.
– Creating a fully functional 2D game using a 2D Engine.

Computer Game Fundamentals
– In this unit students will learn the history of computer games and research milestones in both software and platforms. They will consider how ideas, information and feelings can be conceptualised, transformed and conveyed through narrative descriptions and story boarding techniques.

Students will be able to transfer historical knowledge and research to applications developed in other units.

3D GAME PROGRAMMING
This module will concentrate on techniques commonly used in computer games production and on the common ground that most object-oriented programming languages share.
The module will also introduce 3D and Audio APIs, available as COM (Component Object Model) objects. E.g. DirectX and OpenGL. These APIs provide objects and functions for developing real-time, high-performance graphics applications on the Windows platform.
3D Computer Graphics for Games
This unit aims to give the student an understanding of the principles and practical applications of 3D computer modelling and animation using 3D Studio Max, an industry standard 3D Graphics application. The unit will enable students to visualise and design three dimensional worlds/maps, and characters. It will provide opportunities to review the work of existing 3D environments and characters.

Development Using 3D Engine
Most commercial game development companies will either create or use an existing 3D Game Engine. Engines are basically APIs that sit between graphics libraries, such as DirectX and OpenGL, and a completed 3D game. While the 3D Game Programming unit introduces students to graphics libraries, this unit will introduce a commercial 3D game engine.
Students will gain an understanding of the general principles of building a 3D game in the way that industry expects. They will learn how to put a game together using components such as the level editor, materials editor, artificial intelligence editor and physics engine.
While some of the outcomes from this unit are similar to other units the method of producing them are different. Students learn the fundamentals of a 3D engine in the 3D Game Programming unit and make use of them in this unit.
Computer Music Production
The aim of this unit is to analyse and apply the techniques and procedures involved in the production of music involving computers and related technologies. It examines a range of hardware and software options with a view to integrating them within the production process and the individual creative resource.
Audio samples produced in this unit can be used in the 3D Game project.
ADVANCED 3D GAME PROJECT
This unit will form a central part in the development of the student’s ability to link and integrate the knowledge and skills acquired during the programme to produce a fully functional one level game. The unit will encourage team work but assessment will be based on individual work.

Students will undertake a complete and realistic project and successfully complete it within the time constraint imposed, working within a group and individually when necessary. The project will span all the lifecycle stages for the development of a computer game, from planning to story-boarding, implementation and maintenance. The project may be assigned by the college or by the students and agreed by the college.
Essentials
Location: Strand Road, LondonDerry, Northern Ireland.
Course: Higher National Certificate in Interactive Computer Entertainment
Duration: 1 year
More www.nwifhe.ac.uk

St John’s College Cork

This course is aimed at individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in the computer games industry. Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of computer game development and will also learn how ideas can be transformed and conveyed through computer graphics and storyboarding techniques .Students also study programming in C+ and Visual Basic as well as mathematics for computing and elements of computer animation.

Duration : One year full time

Certification :FETAC (NCVA): – Information Technology, Level 5, CITXX

http://www.stjohnscollege.ie/index.php?pageID=37

This course at the the University of Ulster, Coleraine enables a student to study for a computing degree with a specialist theme of computer game development. The focus of the course is on game design and programming for modern games platforms, for example, in the past students have been taught about game creation for the PC, Xbox, PS2 and mobile phones. Research at Coleraine is strong in computer game AI, internet and network systems, as well as mainstream Artificial Intelligence, and these themes feature strongly in lectures. The course overview is illustrated in the following table:

More information on the games aspect of our computing degree contact Dr Darryl Charles dk.charles@ulster.ac.uk or have a look at our web portal: www.infc.ulst.ac.uk/computing/games.php

For information about admissions or similar contact Martin McKinney met.mckinney@ulster.ac.uk or have a look at our main school website: www.infc.ulst.ac.uk/informatics/cie/

The games research website is here:
http://games.infc.ulst.ac.uk/

Overview
In September 2005 Letterkenny Institute of Technology is launching it’s B.Sc. in Computer Games Development. This course has been developed with the help of computer game companies. It covers key skills, methods and techniques used in the development of computer games.

Course Structure
The B.Sc. is a three year taught programme in computing, which focuses on core computing skills plus topics applicable to the computer games programming/development industry. Its aim is to provide students who participate in it with the range of both theoretical and practical skills required for them to participate fully in a strong and vibrant computing industry with a particular emphasis on computer games development. In designing this course we have ensured that there is also a strong emphasis on game design, media content and teamwork. In addition graduates from this course will be able to do a one-year add-on Honours BSc in Computer Games Development.

Entry Requirements
The basic entry requirements for this course is six passes in the Leaving Certificate, including Mathematics and English or Irish. For students from Northern Ireland: Minimum entrance requirements are 1 A Level along with 5 GCSE passes at grade C including English and Mathematics. Alternatively a Pass in GNVQ Advanced or a BTEC National Diploma will gain entry.

BSc in Computer Games Development – Subjects:

Year 1:
Computer Game Design and Development Technologies 1
Games Programming 1
Software Design 1
Communications
Mathematics
Computer Architecture and Operating Systems

Year 2:
Computer Game Design and Development Technologies 2
Games Programming 2
Software Design 2
Graphics and Physical Modelling
Systems Analysis and Design
Database Technology

Year 3:
Computer Game Design and Development Technologies 3
Games Programming 3
Team Project (Design and develop elements of a computer game)
Software Design 3
Systems Development
Data Communications and Networking

First offered in Autumn 2005

Run by:
Department of Computer Science and Information Systems (CSIS),
Department of Mathematics and Statistics (MS)
College of Informatics and Electronics (CIE)

Rationale:
These students will learn the art and science of computer games programming and aesthetics. The ultimate objective is to produce graduate programmers with computer games creation and design specialisms. In order to achieve this, students will learn underlying scientific concepts from Computer Science, such as: graphics, AI, game theory, gaming mechanics and modelling.

Aims and Objectives of the Programme
The key aims of the proposed course B.Sc. (Hons) in Multimedia and Computer Games Development programme are to provide students with: · A competence in Programming, in System Analysis, and integration of software components; · Knowledge of the various digital media and digital media technologies. · Knowledge in areas such as the human computer interface and theories of perception which will enable the student to select appropriate representations in computer gaming situations.

Modules

Entry Qualifications
Applicants are required to hold at the time of enrolment the established Leaving Certificate (or an approved equivalent) with at least Grade C3 in two Higher Level subjects and Grade D3 in four Ordinary or Higher Level subjects (including Mathematics; Irish or another language; and English).

In addition, applicants are required to hold at least the following in the Leaving Certificate, or an approved equivalent: Grade B2 in Ordinary Level Mathematics (Grade D2 in Higher Level Mathematics also suffices).

Cooperative Education and Work Practice
In semester two of year three students will have an eight month co-operative education placement, either in Ireland or abroad.

For more information contact:
Dr. Nikola S. Nikolov (Course Leader)
E-mail: nikola.nikolov@ul.ie
Homepage: http://www1.csis.ul.ie/staff/NikolaNikolov/

If you harbour an ambition to become a games coder, NUI Maynooth offers a course in general Computer Science and Software Engineering which can provide training in most of the skills and concepts required. As is the trend with these kinds of courses, the course director Dr. Adam Winstanley specified that the course is not specifically aimed at games production but certainly has relevance.

From first to third year students have no options and cover a core which includes programming, mainly in JAVA and object oriented development. In third year students go on a 6 month work placement in industry and in the past some have worked for Microsoft as part of their Xbox team here in Ireland.

In fourth year there are no compulsory modules; instead students must pick nine out of an available seventeen, although this varies from year to year depending on resources. There is, Mr. Winstanley told us, a proposal for a fourth year module in computer gaming being processed at the moment, but this is not certain to be approved. There is a fourth year module in Computer Graphics.

The course is relatively new, having had only one graduating year at time of writing To date there is no record of any graduates going to work in the gaming industry. There is a maximum capacity of 100 students per year, most years however, take-up of the course is lower due to the minimum requirements set by the faculty.

The final project requirement makes up 25% of fourth year marks. Suggestions are posted to the class and students choose from these suggestions. There is also the opportunity for students to come up with their own proposal but they need to get it approved and supervised by a faculty member. Most final year projects concentrate on web applications and scientific computing. Games related projects are very rare.

There is no part time option but interestingly, Computer Science is available under the arts system at Maynooth so students have the option of combining Computer with another arts subject e.g. music.

The course has no specific games industry links but through work placement has developed a relationship with wireless operators 02 and Motorola.

Essentials:
Location: National University of Ireland, Maynooth, Co. Kildare.
Duration: 4 years
Course: BSc. Computer Science and Software Engineering
Course Strengths:
Industry placement, transferable skills, artificial intelligence, computer graphics.

Course Weaknesses
Constraints in final project system, limited industry links.

More info: www.cs.may.ie

The production of games requires a unique set of skills, which covers disciplines in design, media, the visual arts, audio, story development and programming. In 2004 the Northern Regional College developed the first nationally approved Level 3 Course in Games Development.

EDEXCEL in association with the Northern Regional College and the UK’s largest game publisher Eidos have developed the course content, assessment and delivery strategies to meet the needs of this evolving and exciting Industry.

The Games Development course team work closely with Eidos and all of their development studios (such as Crystal Dynamics, Pivotal and Beautiful Games Studio) to ensure unit structure and content are relevant, industry specific and match the requirements of SkillSet (the Sector Skills Council for audio visual industries).

Eidos exclusively endorse the College’s course structure and delivery methods, and provide resource materials for student learning. This industrial link ensures students experience enriched training and opportunities to meet Games Industry professionals during guest lectures from Eidos personnel.

The following course units are subject to QCA approval.

Core Units

The computer science department in Trinity College Dublin (TCD) offers a full-time 4-year BA in Computer Science as well as a 4-year evening course for a BSc. in Computer Science.

We spoke to Carol O’Sullivan, who teaches the computer graphics (optional) module to fourth year students. In the first three years the course can be divided into 45% software, 35% hardware and 20% mathematics. There is some study of the social uses and implications of computing. Programming languages covered include JAVA and C++ and both the UNIX and Windows 2000 operating systems are included. C++ is one of the more popular programming languages used for games today while hybrids of JAVA are growing more and more popular as a means of programming games for mobile handsets.

Carol’s work is almost exclusively in real-time interactive computer graphics, covering display hardware, image processing, 2D and 3D transformations, rendering and OpenGL. Students of computer graphics are advised to use 3DSMAX to create models for their work. Although it is not taught on the course, there are copies of 3DSMAX installed for use by students on the course.

Graduates from the course include the CEO and founder of Havok, Hugh Reynolds. Havok produce complex game middleware and 3D software for platforms including all the major games consoles and Macromedia’s ShockWave 3D technology. Many graduates of the programme go on to do post graduate study in the field of real-time interactive graphics.

The only direct link with the gaming industry at present is with Havok, who have recruited from the programme.

Essentials: Location: Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland
Courses: BA in Computer Science, BSc in Computer Science (Evenings)
Duration: Both 4 years
Course Strengths: Artificial Intelligence, Computer Graphics, Programming C++, Programming JAVA. Course Weaknesses: Very technical, 3D packages are available but not taught.
More Info: http://www.cs.tcd.ie

The production of games requires programmers to write complex engines for graphics and artificial intelligence, among other functions. In order to develop these kinds of applications, programmers must have a broad range of skills in planning, design and implementation in different computer programming languages.

Dublin City University provides, within it’s four-year B.Sc. in Computer Applications, many of the core skills which games programming requires. Senior lecturer David Sinclair specified Computer Graphics, Artificial Intelligence, Concurrent Programming, Distributed Programming and Multimedia Technologies as being the most relevant modules on the course.

David, who used to teach a module on the course specifically aimed at games programming (now removed), mentioned that these modules cover programming concepts essential to games programming. The two most popular languages used for games programming (C++ and Java) are both taught on the course.

Regarding options, students choose between three threads in the second year of the course after completing the common core. The threads are Computer Science, Information Systems and Software Engineering, but Mr. Sinclair mentioned that all three threads cover the essential topics mentioned above.

We could not get information on any graduates who have entered into games development careers although some graduates are conducting relevant postgraduate research. The course can accept up to 300 applicants per year.

The final project is presented in fourth year and, while it must be pre-approved by the faculty, there is scope for games-related development within its requirements. In the past students have used the project to experiment with games related artificial intelligence.

There are no direct games industry links to speak of but Mr. Sinclair stated that this course produces software developers (“coders” in gaming rhetoric) who can transfer their skills to many industries not least interactive entertainment.

There is a part-time option (evenings) which provides the same qualification.

Essentials:
Location: Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9.
Course: BSc. in Computer Applications
Duration: 4 years
Course Strengths:
Artificial intelligence, multimedia technology, advanced software engineering practices.
Course Weaknesses:
No specific games related modules.

More info: www.computing.dcu.ie

Among the many third level courses now available in Ireland which providing training in the development of interactive media is the 4 year BSc. in Multimedia at Dublin City University. We spoke to lecturer Declan Tuite who teaches a number of modules on the course. <br /><br />Of particular relevance are modules in “Dramatic Authoring for the Web”, “Digital Audio” and “Programming for Multimedia”. In these modules students develop skills in character development and user engagement, soundtrack design, aesthetics and psychoacoustics and key programming principles respectively.<br /><br />Work is cross platform, with projects developed for PC, Mac and web. Audio development equipment used includes Pro Tools Digi 001 and a broadcast level Pro Tools AV studio is also available. Authoring for multimedia emphasizes the organisation of code and encourages re-useable objects and set pieces for interactive design and information architectures.<br /><br />A module in 3D Modelling and animation uses Cinema 4D. There are options during the course which facilitate specialisation in a given area of multimedia production, be it audio, video or imaging. All are of equal relevance to games design. Other software used on the course includes Director Shockwave Studio, Flash, Final Cut Pro, Adobe Photoshop. Adobe Illustrator while Digital Video (D9 format) and Stills cameras along with minidisk recording equipment are available. <br /><br />Students go on work experience placement in their third year of the course in order to establish industry links and build a familiarity with the way in which multimedia businesses operate. Placement in games companies would be acceptable for this period but to date no students have secured such a placement.<br /><br />The first graduates from this course will appear in 2003 and there are 50 places on the course every year. Final projects proposed include a broad range of multimedia productions, from animated narratives to online/networked games, research based projects and DVD/CD-ROM productions. There is no part time option. <br /><br />The only games industry links are by association with the research centre for Society, Technology and Media (STeM) at D.C.U, which is behind the online resource gamedevelopers.ie. Two students from the BSc. in Multimedia developed that website while on work experience. <br /><br />Essentials:<br /><br />Location: Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9.<br /><br />Course: B.Sc. in Multimedia<br /><br />Duration: 4 years<br /><br />Course Strengths: <br />Interactive design, theory of narrative & traditional media, broad media basis, 3D Modelling, object oriented approach to web programming for Shockwave and Flash. Large web emphasis.<br /><br />Course Weaknesses:<br />No study of more commonly used games programming languages (C++, OpenGL, JAVA).<br /><br />More info: <LINK><ADDRESS>http://www.dcu.ie</ADDRESS><LTEXT>www.dcu.ie</LTEXT></LINK>

If your talent is traditional drawing, your interests include classic animation and you aspire to being a member of a game development team, then perhaps you have what it takes to become a games animator.

Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art Design and Technology (DLIADT) provides a BA degree in animation. While the course provides most of the required skills for a games animator, it’s emphasis on theory of animation, the core skills required and the history of the art-form, give graduates a good store of flexible skills.

Course co-ordinator Thelma Chambers emphasises that the course is designed with integration in mind – it is intended that graduates will be able to integrate their work in a wide variety of media forms.

In first year the course concentrates mainly on 2D animation and the hands-on building of 3-D models. Once this foundation has been laid students are taught modern animation packages like 3DSMAX and Flash from scratch, no previous knowledge of these programs is assumed.

The course is linked with the course in radio production which also runs at DLIADT, giving students access to full recording studio and audio mixing facilities at the college.

The final project requirement operates on a “menu” system enabling students to either focus on one kind of animation (3-D for example) or to present a lot of shorts in different styles and formats. The course provides 720 hours of time for completion of this project.

In the past, graduates from the school have gone to work for games companies in the U.K. but most graduates enter into film, advertising and internet work. The course is full-time for four years with no part-time option, but if you are interested and would like to learn the basics there is a programme which runs on Saturday mornings aimed at school leavers in particular.

Essentials:
Location: Kill Avenue, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin, Ireland
Course: B.A. in Animation
Duration: 2 years
Course Strengths:
Provides students with skills needed for games animation and more, includes a solid basis in theory and principles of animation.

Course weaknesses:
There are no major games industry links to speak of, the course provides only minimal exposure to programming (Flash).

GC Developers Conference (GCDC)

Leipzig, Germany:

August 20, 2007 to August 22, 2007

See http://www.gcdc.eu/

Event Date September 14, 2007
Start Time 10 AM
End Time 5 PM

A one-day workshop on geometric algebra for computer games, computer animation and 3D computer graphics.

Speakers: Prof. John Vince (Bournemouth University), Dr Chris Doran (Geomerics Ltd, Dr Joan Lasenby (Cambridge University) and Dr Hugh Vincent (Consultant)

Venue
The Moving Picture Company
127 Wardour Street
London
W1F 0NL
United Kingdom

Organizer
Event Mgmt. Bournemouth University
Phone +44 (0)1202 965860
Fax +44 (0) 1202 965530
Email jpower@bmth.ac.uk

British Academy Video Game Awards, London.

http://www.bavga.co.uk//EnteraGame.aspx

The DIT Faculty of Science located in Kevin St., Dublin, has offered courses in Computing since 1983. We currently offer a range of full time and part time undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Of particular interest to prospective games developers are our Honours Degree in Computer Science (DT228) and our Honours Degree in Computing (DT211).

The Honours Degree in Computer Science (DT228) runs for four years full time. It provides students with a wide range of practical skills required by games developers including programming in C, C++ and Java, computer maths and software engineering. In the third year of the course, students take a number of core subjects but also choose two out of four streams – Games Programming, Software Development and Internet Systems, Computer Systems Architecture and Administration or Data and Knowledge Management. All of the streams offer students the opportunity to undertake a six month work placement in the second semester of third year, which can games related.

In the final year of their degree, students specialise in one of the two streams they have chosen in third year. Students choosing the games programming specialisation take six core subjects – Game Worlds, Mobile and Multi-user Games, Artificial Intelligence 1 & 2, Game Middleware and Game Behaviour. Students taking this stream have access to a cutting edge games programming lab. In the final year of the course students must also undertake a significant software project and games have always featured highly as choices for student projects. Students also choose two elective subjects which may include music technology, digital audio, geographic information systems, graphics, image processing and assistive technology among others.

The Honours Degree in Computing (DT211) runs for four years full time, with the option of a certificate after two years or an ordinary degree after three years. This course has a practical focus and is designed to produce graduates that can work as software developers and hardware engineers in commercial and technological areas. This course similarly offers students a wide range of practical skills including programming, computer hardware, networking and databases. Elements of this course are offered in partnership with industry leaders including CISCO and Oracle. Students taking this course can opt for an internship in year three and four, where they spend up to two days per week on a supervised placement in the computer industry. In the fourth year of this course, students have access to the full range of electives including artificial intelligence, computer graphics, music technology and games programming.

We hope that our courses offer students the flexibility to work at all levels and in many specialist areas of the computer industry including games development.

From 12th – 14th August, all the prototype games developed by the Dare to be Digital contestants will be on display for the public to play at Our Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh.

It will be held alongside the Edinburgh Interactive Entertainment Festival during the Edinburgh festivals season in August.

Visitors to Dare ProtoPlay will:

* Be the first to play new video games created by the top young designers of the future
* Be invited to participate in creating the world’s largest games storyboard
* Discover how a game is made
* Be a judge for the day by casting their vote for their favourite game.

All this and a whole lot more…for free!

Event details

Our Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Road, Edinburgh, EH8 8AS www.dynamicearth.co.uk

Dates & hours of opening

Sunday 12th August 11am – 6pm

Monday 13th & Tuesday 14th August 10am – 6pm

Admission

Entry is free, and there is no need to register

Interdisciplinary academic/industry event which takes place every two years.

This year it moves to Toyko in Japan from the 24-28th of September, just after the Toyko Games Show.

For more see http://www.digra2007.jp/

18 July – 2pm-5pm – Engineers Ireland, 22 Clyde Road, Dublin 4

The IIA in partnership with iQ Content present a half day workshop on Accessibility 2.0. Web accessibility means that people with disabilities can use the web. An accessible website also means a better user experience for all visitors to your site. Many organisations are legally or ethically required to comply with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), but the new WCAG 2.0 makes the definition of compliance ever more ambiguous.

This workshop demystifies the new guidelines, clearly defines what they mean for you and your website, and offers advice on how to achieve compliance and enhance the usability of your site for all users. If accessibility is something you have to, or choose to, care about, then you won’t want to miss it.

Date: Wednesday, 18th July 2007
Cost: €145 Members (€210 Non-Members)

Places are limited, book now to avoid disappointment.

To register, view the full agenda and details, click here or email events@iia.ie

Registration for the DIGRA conference, taking place in September 2007, just after the Toyko Games Show in Japan, is now possible. See www.digra2007.jp/

Two keynote speakers have been confirmed: Prof. Edward Castronova and Mr. Marc Prensky. Two prominent Japanese developers have also been invited.

A summary of the program is available at http://www.digra2007.jp/Program.html. It is intended that a timetable will be available next month.

A welcome reception (September 24) will be held at Sanjo Conference Hall at the University of Tokyo.
http://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/campusmap/cam01_00_02_j.html

The banquet (September 28) will be held at Hotel Metropolitan Edmont, two stations away from the University of Tokyo by subway.
https://apollon.nta.co.jp/07digra/perl/hotel.pl?&mode=info&hotel_master_id=2485

Hotels in the vicinity of University of Tokyo are listed on the website.

The date for The World Cyber Games Ireland 2007 has been announced. The Irish Qualifiers will take place in The Digital Hub from 15th – 16th Sept 2007. The world event will take place in Seattle, later in the year.

This year the World Cyber Games Ireland will be running two regional competitions.

The 1st qualifier will be in conjunction with Midlans in Co Westmeath.

Date: Friday 20th – Sunday 22nd July 2007
Time : 4pm start on Friday 20th
Venue: Streete Community Centre, Streete, Co. Westmeath, Ireland
Click here for a map
www.midlans.net

The 2nd qualifier will be in conjunction with GameCon in Dublin.

Date: Friday 17th – Sunday 19th August 2007
Time: TBC
Venue: Griffith College Conference Centre, South Circular Road, Dublin 8
Capacity: 250 participants
Event site: www.gamecon.ie
Venue site: www.conferencecenter.ie

For more information see www.worldcybergamesireland.com