The course aims to provide an overview of the history and theory of interactive digital media through the analysis of video games and immersive experiences. By the end of the module, students will be able to critically analyse interactive digital works within a transdisciplinary framework.
None; the course will be held in English.
The module will be delivered using an innovative teaching methodology. After an introductory section in which the lecturer will provide a theoretical framework for analysis, the course will be conducted as a laboratory of playful experiences and will require the active participation of the students.
Attending students
Non-attending students: Written examination. Students will be asked to answer four open-ended questions in a maximum of 120 minutes. The knowledge of the contents of the syllabus, the correct use of specific terminology and the ability to independently apply the concepts learnt will also determine the final assessment.
TITLE OF THE MODULE: DIGITAL WORLDS. VIDEOGAMES AND EXTENDED REALITIES
Drawing on the methodological perspective of visual studies, the module will address the various forms of interactive digital multimedia. Starting from the new social pervasiveness that game forms and playful experiences have assumed in the contemporary context, the course will deal more specifically with video games and immersive experiences. After a methodological introduction to the research field of game studies, the course will focus on the historical development of interactive multimedia works and provide students with tools for aesthetic and ethical-philosophical analysis. Video games and immersive experiences will be used as a means of reflecting on highly polarising issues such as migration, artificial intelligence, etc.
Attendance is not mandatory, but encouraged and recommended. Textbooks will be available at the University Library (Sant'Agostino's building).
