Transformative Role-Playing Game Design

7.5 credits

Syllabus, Bachelor's level, 5SD081

A revised version of the syllabus is available.
Code
5SD081
Education cycle
First cycle
Main field(s) of study and in-depth level
Game Design G1N
Grading system
Pass with distinction (VG), Pass (G), Fail (U)
Finalised by
The Department Board, 22 May 2024
Responsible department
Department of Game Design

Entry requirements

General entry requirements

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, the students will be able to:

  • demonstrate knowledge and understanding of transformative analog role-playing game design and relevant interdisciplinary theories
  • demonstrate the ability to present and discuss information, problems and solutions in speech and writing on transformative analog role-playing game design in dialogue with the field of role-playing game studies
  • identify, formulate and solve problems through transformative game design based on intended impacts
  • demonstrate the ability to make assessments in transformative game design informed by relevant interdisciplinary, social and ethical issues.

Content

This course focuses on analog role-playing games, which involve spontaneous co-creative character enactment, world-building, and fictional representations that emerge from the students. The course gives an overview of the theoretical and practical underpinnings of using play as a vehicle for personal and social growth, drawing from a broad background of theoretical areas, such as: psychology, counselling, pedagogy, game studies, and critical theory. Students will put this theory into practice by designing an analog role-playing game and reflecting upon the process. Curricular materials may include some or all of the following: video recorded lectures, research articles, popular texts, game design documents, etc.

Instruction

The course is delivered through asynchronous group discussions, written journals and practice-based game design. Students will work individually or in teams.

Assessment

The basis for assessment is the students' active participation in course-related activities, presenting regular progress of deliverables and adhering to deadlines. Deliverables may include oral presentations and written assignments.

If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the University´s disability coordinator.

Other regulations

The course overlaps 5SD315 and 5SD321, Introduction to Transformative Game Design, 7.5 cr.

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