Basic Understanding of Educational Principles
Familiarity with educational concepts is crucial as this course focuses on integrating learning objectives into game design. Understanding how students learn will guide your design choices.
Interest in Games and Gameplay Mechanics
A passion for games will fuel your creativity. Knowing various gameplay mechanics will help you design engaging experiences that resonate with players.
Willingness to Collaborate and Share Ideas
Collaboration is key in this course. Being open to feedback and sharing your thoughts will enhance your learning and lead to more innovative game designs.
Game Mechanics Basics
Why This Matters:
Refreshing your knowledge of basic game mechanics will help you understand how to create engaging gameplay. You'll see these mechanics applied in your projects throughout the course.
Recommended Resource:
"The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses" by Jesse Schell - This book offers insights into game mechanics and design principles that are foundational for any game designer.
Educational Theories
Why This Matters:
Reviewing educational theories will aid in your ability to incorporate effective learning strategies into your game. For example, understanding constructivism can help you create interactive learning experiences.
Recommended Resource:
"How People Learn: Brain, Mind, Experience, and School" by John D. Bransford - This resource provides a comprehensive overview of educational psychology, essential for game design.
Prototype Development
Why This Matters:
Refreshing your skills in prototype development will ensure you can effectively turn your ideas into tangible designs. This will be vital as you create your board game prototype.
Recommended Resource:
"Prototyping: A Practitioner's Guide" by Todd Zaki Warfel - This guide covers various prototyping techniques that can be applied to board game design.
Preparation Tips
- ⭐Set a Weekly Study Schedule: Allocate specific times each week for course activities. This will help you stay organized and ensure you dedicate enough time to each module.
- ⭐Gather Materials for Prototyping: Start collecting materials like cardboard, markers, and game pieces. Having these on hand will make the prototyping process smoother.
- ⭐Join Online Game Design Communities: Engaging with fellow game designers can provide valuable insights and inspiration. Consider platforms like BoardGameGeek or Reddit's r/tabletop.
- ⭐Prepare for Playtesting: Think about who you can invite for playtesting sessions. Having a diverse group will yield more comprehensive feedback for your game.
- ⭐Stay Open to Feedback: Cultivating a mindset that welcomes constructive criticism will enhance your game design process and lead to a better final product.
What to Expect
This course is structured over 8 weeks, with 15-20 hours of dedicated study each week. You'll engage in hands-on projects, collaborate with peers, and receive feedback on your work. Assignments will build on each other, leading you from foundational concepts to a final presentation of your educational board game prototype.
Words of Encouragement
Get ready to unleash your creativity! By the end of this course, you'll have the skills to design an educational board game that not only entertains but also enriches learning experiences for students. Let's embark on this exciting journey together!