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

Alongside technological development, interactive systems have taken on an increasingly pervasive role in a range of political, economic, social and cultural processes, facilitating diverse media content across websites, apps, advertising, television and cinema, games, VR and social media. Focusing upon games as an intricate form of interactive system, this unit introduces students to the main elements and principles of their design and application. The unit engages students with both theoretical and practical aspects of games, aiming to facilitate their creative and critical engagement with the production and consumption of interactive media experiences.

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

Students are able to (1) recognise, evaluate and utilise key elements of interactive media; (2) develop a critical awareness of how interactive systems such as games affect social, political and economic practices, and vice versa; (3) demonstrate understanding of the key issues underpinning the production and consumption of interactive media experiences; and (4) develop research, writing and design skills applicable in a range of creative and media industries..

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) research essay and (2) game design project. 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 Joachim Strand (00113614)
Unit rules
Prerequisites
COMM1001 Power, Participation and Meaning (ID 813)
or COMM1002 Cultures, New Media and Communications (ID 814)
and
COMM2001 Media Influence
or COMM2002 Digital Media
Incompatibility
COMM3304 Designing Virtual Play
Contact hours
3 hours per teaching week
  • 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.