module specification

This module examines the theoretical background for interactive 
arts/entertainment environments especially narratives and computer games. It also deals with 3D
animation theory and principles and allows for the development of a practical understanding of the
latest technologies for 3D modeling and animation in the context of team working.

SEMESTER: Spring
PREREQUISITE: None
ASSESSMENT: Project(50%) + Critical Report(50%)

None

? To gain a critical understanding of the scope of 3D modeling and animation in an interactive context.
? To provide an overview of techniques for working with modeling and animation in 3D on a computer and the specialised methods required to prepare this medium for interactive delivery.
? To support research into the relationship between non-linear narrative, interactive video and animation, computer games and similar genres in arts/entertainment environments.

This module examines the theoretical background for interactive arts/entertainment environments especially narratives and computer games. It also deals with 3D animation theory and principles and allows for the development of a practical understanding of the latest technologies for 3D modeling and animation in the context of team working.

3D animation is used to create virtual content that models the physical properties of the real-world. It can also be creatively used to create 'virtual unrealities'. These approaches can be synthesised with video, sound, images and other media using scripting techniques for interactive environments.

Students will have an opportunity to perform a team role which includes use of some or all of the techniques of storyboarding, 3D modeling, texturing, animation, rendering, or scripting or the use of other relevant design and production techniques.

The module will result in the development of a project on a given theme which integrates 3D modeling and animation in an interactive arts/entertainment environment.

An indicative programme of study covers the following:

• Technical fundamentals of 3D virtual environments
– introduction to the key concepts
• History of 3D animation, examples of past & current practice and future trends
• An analysis of the medium from relevant theoretical perspectives
(e.g cognitive aesthetics, film theory, narrative theory, psychology of perception)
• 3D Modeling
Model construction using primitives, polygons, NURBS and Subdivision Surfaces
• 3D colouring, textures, lighting, cameras, composition, rendering and output
• Realism and virtual unrealities
• Animation theory
• 3D animation techniques (keyframing, motion paths, kinematics, dynamics, particle systems)
• Animating simulations and expressive environments, character animation
• 3D animation in an interactive context (scripting)
• Narratives, games and interactive arts & entertainment environments

This module will be delivered through a combination of modes of delivery. Each week there will be a two hour lab session and a one hour online lecture. In addition support to individuals and smaller groups will be provided through weekly tutorial sessions. Key to the delivery of this module is availability of open access facilities for the development of group project work.

A framework that encourages mutual student support will be developed. This will be in part achieved through the structuring of group work. Online discussion forums will also be made available and students will be encouraged to participate in wider developer support forums.

A comprehensive range of supporting documentation for the computer applications that this module is concerned with will be made available in a range of formats including intranet based tutorials and extensive supporting online materials.

On successful completion of this module post-graduate students will be able to:

• LO1 Design applications that integrate 3D modelling & animation
in interactive arts/entertainment environments.
• LO2 Research and critically analyse a range of relevant media texts and reflect critically
on their own practice.
• LO3 Perform a creative and technical role as a member of a team engaged in concept
design and 3-D modelling & animation and communicate productively with colleagues..

The assessment methods will focus on students’ abilities in concept development, design and production in relation to 3D animation design in an interactive arts/entertainment context. They will also test students' understanding of contextual theory and their ability to reflect critically on their own work both as individuals and as members of a team.

Assessment 1:
The conception, design and development of a project using 3D modeling and animation will provide evidence of students' creative and technical abilities in working with these technologies and their capability to work effectively in a teamwork environment.
(LO1 and LO3)

Assessment 2:
The 2,500 word critical report will deal in detail with a rationale for the creative design and planning of the project in a teamwork environment. The aim of this assessment instrument is both to provide evidence of a student's contribution to the overall design and production teamwork and to assess their individual ability to reflect critically on their own practice using conventional academic methods for interpreting relevant media texts.
(LO2)

Required reading:

Introducing Maya 2011, Dariush Derakhshani, John Wiley & Sons, 2010

Mastering Autodesk Maya 2011, Eric Keller, John Wiley & Sons, 2010

Background reading:

The Art of 3D Computer Animation and Effects, Isaac Kerlow, John Wiley & Sons; 4th Edition, 2009

Innovate the Pixar Way: Business Lessons from the Worlds Most Creative Corporate Playground, Bill Capodagli and Lynn Jackson, McGraw-Hill Professional, 2010

Hollywood Flatlands: Animation, Critical Theory, and the Avant-Garde
Esther Leslie, Verso Books, 2002
To Infinity and Beyond!: The Story of Pixar Animation Studios, Karen Paik, Leslie Iwerks
Virgin Books, 2007

Basics Animation: Scriptwriting, Paul Wells, AVA Publishing SA, 2007

Digital Cinematography & Directing
Dan Ablan, New Riders, 2002

The Visual Story: Seeing the Structure of Film, TV and New Media
Bruce A. Block, Focal Press, 2001

3D Staging, Lighting, and Animation, Bill Fleming, Morgan Kaufmann, 2000

The Animator's Survival Kit: A Manual of Methods, Principles, and Formulas for Classical, Computer, Games, Stop Motion, and Internet Animators
Richard Williams, Faber & Faber; 2001