Introduction to Videogame and Esports Studies

Course Description

Introduces students to videogame and esports studies. Students examine the three components of the field (videogame studies, videogame production/design, and esports) and learn how to examine each critically. No background in gaming is required and access to special technology is not necessary.

Syllabus

Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:

Students successfully completing this course will be able to:

  • Recognize and articulate the visual, verbal, audio, and procedural conventions through which images, words, and sounds make meaning in gaming and esports
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the professional, technical, and formal choices that realize or challenge existing practices in video gaming and esports
  • Identify gaps in representation and contrast how various games have addressed social issues
  • Critically analyze claims, arguments, artifacts or information (MAC CRITICAL THINKING AND INQUIRY IN THE HUMANITIES AND FINE ARTS)
  • Construct coherent, evidence-based arguments (CRITICAL THINKING AND INQUIRY IN THE HUMANITIES AND FINE ARTS)

Course Grading Information:

Activity/Performance Measure Percentage/Points
Unit Reflections 30%
Unit Projects 30%
Final Project 12.5%
Class Discussions/Participation 27.5%

Grading Scale

Percentage Letter Grade
90% and aboveA
80-89%B
70-79%C
60-69%D
59% and belowF

Attendance/Participation:

Regular attendance is expected and contributes to your success in this course. Students are responsible for all material covered in class, whether present or absent. If you miss a class, it is your responsibility to obtain notes, complete any missed work, and stay current with course requirements.

Course Materials Purchased by the Students:

No course materials are required.

Scholarly Perspectives

This course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis, and debate and inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.