:cjn 421 media seminar in digital games:

This course approaches the study of digital games as cultural artifacts. As artifacts, digital games have much to tell us about the real world we inhabit as well as the virtual worlds we choose to inhabit. Through the varied lenses of players, producers, critics, futurists, journalists, educators, legal experts, artists, economists, psychologists, etc., this course explores the historical, social, educational and economic influences of digital games on contemporary culture. Throughout the semester students are expected to discuss, read and write about games in order to critically engage the phenomena of gaming. Please note: This course is NOT a game design or production course. We will not create digital games. Access to contemporary computer and video games is not necessary, but strongly encouraged.

syllabus: Course purpose, attendance policy, grading structure and contact information (PDF document).

assignments: In case you lose your paper version, all homework assignments are listed here.

overheads and handouts: Examples and notes from class lecture.

mid-term exam review: Study guide for midterm exam on February 27.

game review: Assignment sheet for the game review due on March 26.

final options: Description of the three options for your final due on April 23.

final exam review: Study guide for final exam on April 23.