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Information Technology
Course Syllabus
Course Title:
GAM-110 Introduction to Game Architecture and Design
Credits/Hours:
3.0 credits/3 hours lecture
Prerequisite:
None
Course Description:
This course introduces the student to the fundamentals of game architecture and design through
critique of gameplay, interactive assignments and culminating with the creation of an original game
design document. Game design concepts include storytelling & narrative, game worlds & settings,
gameplay, character development, audio, game art, level design and the user interface. Also covered
are videogame history, status of the game development industry and associated careers and the game
development process.
Textbooks and Supplies:
See course outline
Student Learning Objectives Assessment
Measures
1. Describe and analyze the fundamental elements of game design Exam
Assignment
2. Develop a game proposal Assignment
3. Create an original game design document Project
Assignment
4. Relate important games, advances and events in videogame history Exam
5. Depict the current state and trends of the game development industry Exam
Assignment
6. Explain the steps involved in the game development process Exam
7. Utilize game design tools for user interface design, level design and game
art development
Assignment
College Competencies: Student Learning
Objective:
CRITICAL THINKING 2-5
TECHNOLOGICAL AND INFORMATION FLUENCY 1-7
CREATIVITY AND AESTHETIC APPRECIATION 7
Course Content:
See course outline
Assessment:
An average of 60% from combined assessment measures is required
to demonstrate proficiency in course material.
Exams and Projects 70%
Assignments 30%
Quizzes and Labs (Instructor Discretion) Bonus Points
Quizzes:
There may be several quizzes, each worth 10 points, given at the beginning pre-selected classes. The quiz
material will be based upon the prior lectures and labs, homework, and/or the reading assignments. A quiz
cannot be made up if missed. A student entering class late, after a quiz has begun, will not be entitled to extra
time to complete the quiz. Students entering class after a quiz is completed will not be permitted to take the
quiz and a zero grade will be assigned.
Testing:
Students are required to take examinations on the day and time they are scheduled. If special circumstances
require a test schedule adjustment, this must be worked out in advance with the instructor. If a student
misses an exam (except for prearranged circumstances with the instructor) a zero grade will be assigned.
The instructor can be reached by telephone (see course outline for appropriate phone number), e-mail, or a
written note can be left in the Divisional Office (during the day) A-306C or in the Adjunct Lounge C-107. If
there are extreme circumstances (documentation may be required) that prevent a student from taking a test or
an exam according to the published schedule, the student should use one of the above options to contact the
instructor before the next class. An arrangement for a special testing schedule is solely at the discretion of
the instructor. A student who waits for the next class session to speak with the instructor will not be
accommodated with a special test schedule.
The use of electronic devices during exams is prohibited. Any student using an electronic device during an
exam (unless directed to do so by the instructor) will receive a 0 for the exam.
Projects, Assignments, Laboratory Work:
Assignments are hands-on productions that show the instructor that the student understands concepts
presented in class and in the readings and can competently use specified software to apply specific concepts.
It is anticipated that students will spend at least 4 hours per week perfecting their skills and completing their
assignments and homework. Some assignments are required for grading. They must be submitted on the
assignment due date, and cannot be handed in late. Acceptance of late assignments is solely at the
discretion of the instructor.
Some assignments are instructional and need not be submitted. These lab assignments will help students
prepare for graded assignments, quizzes, and exams.
Homework:
In addition to any homework assignment given during class, it is a standing assignment that the student read
each chapter of the book prior to its discussion. Following the class discussion, the student should reread the
material and work with the exercises throughout the text. It is anticipated that students will spend at least 4-
hours per week reading the text, working with the exercises and supplemental resources, and completing
assignments.
Policies:
Lateness – The roll will be taken at the beginning of class. If the student is not in attendance at that
time, he/she will be carried in the roll book as being absent unless the instructor is notified immediately
after class. Attendance sheets cannot be adjusted at following class meetings.
The student must adhere to all college polices. Due to the nature of this course, it is recommended that
the student review the policy titled “Acceptable Information Technology Use at Bergen Community
College”.
The use of portable electronic devices is not permitted while class is in session. Please be sure to
silence electronic devices before entering class.
The use of college computers to play music during class is prohibited.
Students are expected to demonstrate listening, reading, note taking, and writing skills. The student
will need to take notes during class discussions and understand and follow verbal and written directions.
All assignments and correspondence with the instructor (including e-mail) must be well written in full
sentence format. Proper paragraph format must be used for all postings to the student bulletin board (if
applicable).
The subject line of all e-mail correspondence to the instructor must contain the course number and
section and student’s name. Any e-mail received without this information will not be opened.
Plagiarism in any form will be treated as a failure to complete an assignment. All work submitted
should reflect individual effort by the student.
In borderline cases that arise in almost every class each semester a student’s attendance, class
participation, attitude, and observed effort will be considered in helping to determine the student’s final
grade.
If the instructor does not appear after 20 minutes following the scheduled time, students should generate an
attendance list. One volunteer member need deliver the list, containing the course title, date, and instructor’s
name, to the Adjunct Lounge C-107 or to the Divisional Office (during the day) A-306C.
Additional policy and assessment information may be distributed by individual instructors.