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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Programming for Video Games
Reference CM2123 Version 1
Created October 2023 SCQF Level SCQF 8
Approved June 2022 SCQF Points 15
Amended ECTS Points 7.5

Aims of Module
To extend student knowledge and proficiency in essential programming skills required for wider video game development approaches. Students will learn to implement game logic, handle user input, create interactive elements, and utilise graphics rendering techniques - enhancing their proficiency when designing and developing basic video games, and laying the foundation for more advanced video game programming concepts.

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Show an understanding for fundamental programming principles within a game context, including variables, loops, conditionals, and functions.
2 Undertake appropriate design and application of game logic and user/player input and interaction.
3 Practice graphics programming within video games in order to render 2D and basic 3D graphics for game environments and characters.
4 Use gained knowledge to implement basic physics simulations and introduce simple artificial intelligence elements for interactive gameplay.

Indicative Module Content
Programming fundamentals; Variables, data types, loops, and functions, providing students with a strong foundation in coding. Game-Specific Programming Concepts; Game logic implementation, controlling player input, manage game state, and creation of interactive elements. Graphics and Rendering; Render 2D and basic 3D graphics for game environments and characters. Physics; Basic game physics principles, simulation of motion, collisions, and interactions within the game world. Basic Artificial Intelligence; Simple AI behaviours.

Module Delivery
The module will be delivered through a mixture of lectures, tutorials and laboratory sessions where concepts are practiced and explored.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours 30 N/A
Non-Contact Hours 120 N/A
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours N/A N/A
TOTAL 150 N/A
Actual Placement hours for professional, statutory or regulatory body    

ASSESSMENT PLAN
If a major/minor model is used and box is ticked, % weightings below are indicative only.
Component 1
Type: Coursework Weighting: 100% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 2, 3, 4
Description: Coursework project that combines learned programming skills in the design and development of a video game prototype.

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
The calculation of the overall grade for this module is based on 100% weighing of C1. An overall minimum grade D is required to pass the module.
Module Grade Minimum Requirements to achieve Module Grade:
A The student needs to achieve an A in C1.
B The student needs to achieve a B in C1.
C The student needs to achieve a C in C1.
D The student needs to achieve a D in C1.
E The student needs to achieve an E in C1.
F The student needs to achieve an F in C1.
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module None.
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 Adams, E., & Rollings, A. (2020). Fundamentals of Game Design (4th ed.). New Riders.
2 DeLoura, M. (Ed.). (2019). Introduction to Game Development (2nd ed.). CRC Press.
3 Chamillard, A. T. (2021). Beginning C# Programming with Unity: Visual Studio Edition. Apress.
4 Vegas, J. (2020). Unity Basics for Beginners: A Project-Based Introduction to Game Development. Packt Publishing.

Robert Gordon University, Garthdee House, Aberdeen, AB10 7QB, Scotland, UK: a Scottish charity, registration No. SC013781