Motion Graphics for Games and Digital Media
15 Credits
Module code: COMP1751
Level: 5
Credits: 15
School: Liberal Arts and Sciences
Department: Computing and Mathematical Sci.
Module Coordinator(s): Nuno Do Nascimento Correia
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Pre and co requisites
Level 4 experience in video editing and digital media.
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Aims
This course aims to introduce the concepts of motion graphics, and techniques required to implement them in video games and digital media. Procedural techniques offer opportunities to animate elements which would be inefficient to animate using predefined key framed techniques. This module explains and demonstrates the techniques used to automatically generate a range of animated motions for structures, elements, characters and abstract visual elements.
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Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course a student will be able to:
Identify and select appropriate motion graphics in games and digital media to analyse for the use of different styles and techniques.
Use pre-production methods, including detailed visual research and storyboarding, identifying, investigating and developing a style fit for a specified purpose.
Construct Motion Graphics creatively and technically appropriately using visual and aural elements.
Create a portfolio showing a range of personal graphic design skills and understanding and present themselves and their work in a manner appropriate for academic and business practice.
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Indicative Content
Presenting the development of ideas and core concepts effectively Turning ideas into storyboards
Designing and implementing a range of techniques such as:
• Procedural animation.
• Particle simulations (smoke / fire / water).
• Rigid and soft body dynamics (Hair/fur).
• Synchronising animation with audio.
Colour, layout, fonts and consistency in design Experience of industry standard software.
Effects and layering graphics by applying blending modes, masks and overlays.
Abstract design problems.
Exploration of different styles of motion: continuous, smooth, sudden changes, erratic, repetitive.
Teaching and learning activity
Concepts and methods will be introduced and demonstrated in lectures, and students will learn to implement motion graphics techniques in supervised laboratory-based classes and workshops. Presentations will be made by students and formative assessment provided in the laboratory.
The learning will be supplemented by several directed unsupervised activities and a portfolio.
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Assessment
Method of summative assessment: Portfolio
Outcomes assessed:1,2,3,4.
Grading Mode (e.g. pass/ fail; %): %
Weighting % :100%
Passmark: 40%
Word Length: 2500
Outline Details:A portfolio of work that explores and applies motion graphics in a game or digital media setting, with a report reflecting on and analysing the process.
Students are not required to pass all elements of summative assessment in order to pass the module.
Formative Assessment:
Seminars of ideas, experiments and research to peers and staff.
Demonstrations of lecture and lab content applied to prototypes with critical feedback from peers and lecturers.