Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit teaches the fundamentals of computer-generated three-dimensional graphics and animation for applications, including creating interactive virtual environments. The unit introduces the virtual image formation process using a synthetic camera model. The OpenGL API is introduced for writing interactive graphics programs. Fundamental techniques are emphasised, such as using the homogeneous coordinate system for affine transformations. The unit then covers lighting and shading models, as well as the use of GLSL programmable shaders. Finally, three-dimensional animation techniques are covered, with an emphasis on realistic modelling of articulated bodies. The practical component of the unit involves developing a realistic three-dimensional image application involving animation using the core concepts covered in the unit.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 option in the Computer Science major sequence
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate technical competence in three-dimensional graphics; (2) apply basic knowledge of graphics systems, graphical techniques and rendering; (3) develop graphics applications using the OpenGL API and the C programming language; (4) identify, formulate and create three-dimensional virtual worlds and interactively manipulate these virtual worlds; and (5) advance into areas involving graphics and spatial computation, such as games programming, computer vision and scientific visualisation.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) mid-semester test; (2) programming project; and (3) final examination. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Naeha Sharif
Unit rules
Prerequisites
CITS1401 Computational Thinking with Python
or CITS2002 Systems Programming
or CITS2401 Computer Analysis and Visualisation
or CITX1401 Computational Thinking with Python
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week
labs: 2 hours per week
Text

Angel, E. and Shreiner, D. Interactive Computer Graphics: a Top-Down Approach with Shader-Based Open GL, 6th edn: Addison-Wesley 2012

  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.