Game Design Day Camp

Hosted by the NIU Digital Convergence Lab

Have a child interested in animation, computers, or video games? During this hands-on day camp, students will work as a team to design a video game prototype.  Exploring the essentials of game design, students will:

1. Develop a game story,
2. Create game characters,
3. Invent game goals and rules,
4. Storyboard game scenarios, and
5. Design a game interface.

Using computer-based tools, students will take their design ideas through to the prototype stage of a playable video game. The camp will help students develop skills like complex problem solving, working in teams, project management, and using computer software for design.  Much of the software used during the camp is freely available online, and students can continue to use it after the camp.  A full list of resources will be made available to students for further study after the camp.

The Game Design Day Camp will be held on the Northern Illinois University campus in the newly formed Digital Convergence Lab (DCL) located in the Founders Memorial Library.  Part of the mission of the DCL is to provide exciting learning experiences focusing on emerging technologies and 21st century skills for the Northern Illinois community.

 

- CAMP INFORMATION -

Who Should Attend? Middle school students entering grades 6-8

Camp Dates and Times Week 1: July 20-23 --- 9:00am to 4:00pm Week 2: July 27-30 --- 9:00am to 4:00pm

 

Camp Fees

Fees for participation in this day camp are $160 per week (week 2 is optional and will focus on further development of a game) and will include a camp t-shirt.  Students should bring a sack lunch each day.  We only have space for 16 students per week, so early registration is recommended. We expect the camp to fill quickly! For more information contact: aclick@niu.edu

Links to online registration and required forms are provided below. Required forms must be completed and submitted before students are allowed to attend camp.

Register Online!

Required Forms

Games Design Camp Staff

Camp Director:

Aline Click is the director of eLearning Services and co-director of the Digital Convergence Lab. Aline is an artist, instructional designer, and virtual world expert. 
 
Instructors:

Jason Underwood is adjunct faculty in the College of Education, teaching educational technology, game and simulation studies, and technology integration.  He designs digital learning experiences including games and simulations for eLearning Services and the Digital Convergence Lab at NIU.
 

Andy Saia is a graduating senior in the Art School's Time Arts program, is an artist and game designer.  Andy is the President of NIU's Game Development Club and develops games in Flash as well as developing games for the Xbox.
 

Michael Taylor is a Digital Media Specialist for eLearning and the Digital Convergence Lab, is also a musician and a technology guru.  Mike specializes in digital audio and emerging social technologies.