DIGITAL GAME DESIGN
Bachelor	TR-NQF-HE: Level 6	QF-EHEA: First Cycle	EQF-LLL: Level 6

Course Introduction and Application Information

Course Code	Course Name	Semester	Theoretical	Practical	Credit	ECTS
VCD3020	Critical and Creative Thinking in Design	Spring	3	0	3	5

This catalog is for information purposes. Course status is determined by the relevant department at the beginning of semester.

Basic information

Language of instruction:	English
Type of course:	Non-Departmental Elective
Course Level:	Bachelor’s Degree (First Cycle)
Mode of Delivery:	Face to face
Course Coordinator :	Instructor ECE ARIHAN
Recommended Optional Program Components:	None
Course Objectives:	The course aims to introduce students to the foundational frameworks of critical and creative thinking, enhancing their ability to analyze and solve complex design problems. It seeks to foster innovative and reflective practices while promoting an understanding of ethical considerations in creative work. Additionally, the course encourages interdisciplinary approaches to tackling design challenges, enabling students to develop a comprehensive perspective on the social and cultural implications of their work.

Learning Outcomes

The students who have succeeded in this course;
1) Analyze complex design problems using critical thinking frameworks.
2) Evaluate existing design solutions with reference to cultural, ethical, and aesthetic criteria.
3) Apply creative thinking techniques to generate innovative design concepts.
4) Synthesize interdisciplinary ideas to address design challenges.
5) Critique the social and environmental implications of design decisions.

Course Content

This course explores the principles and methodologies of critical and creative thinking within the context of design. Students will engage with theoretical frameworks, case studies, and reflective practices to develop skills in analyzing design problems and generating innovative solutions. The course emphasizes the interplay between logic, creativity, and social responsibility in the design process.

Weekly Detailed Course Contents

Week	Subject	Related Preparation
1)	Introduction to Critical and Creative Thinking in Design
2)	Understanding critical thinking frameworks
3)	Creative Thinking Techniques in Design
4)	Problem-solving methodologies for designers
5)	Ethical considerations in design
6)	Interdisciplinary approaches to design thinking
7)	Midterm
8)	Social responsibility in design
9)	The role of aesthetics in critical design
10)	Cognitive biases and their impact on design
11)	Tools for visualizing critical and creative thinking
12)	Integrating theory and practice in design projects
13)	Presentations of critical and creative design solutions
14)	Overview of the course and discussing future directions in design thinking

Sources

Course Notes / Textbooks:	Kelley, T. (2001). The art of innovation: Lessons in creativity from IDEO, America's leading design firm (Vol. 10). Currency. Cross, N. (2023). Design thinking: Understanding how designers think and work. Bloomsbury Publishing.
References:	Brown, T. (2019). Change by design, revised and updated: how design thinking transforms organizations and inspires innovation. HarperCollins.

Evaluation System

Semester Requirements	Number of Activities	Level of Contribution
Midterms	1	% 40
Final	1	% 60
Total		% 100
PERCENTAGE OF SEMESTER WORK		% 40
PERCENTAGE OF FINAL WORK		% 60
Total		% 100

ECTS / Workload Table

Activities	Number of Activities	Duration (Hours)	Workload
Course Hours	14	3	42
Study Hours Out of Class	14	4	56
Midterms	1	3	3
Final	1	3	3
Total Workload			104

Contribution of Learning Outcomes to Programme Outcomes

No Effect	1 Lowest	2 Low	3 Average	4 High	5 Highest

	Program Outcomes	Level of Contribution
1)	Comprehend the conceptual importance of the game in the field of communication, ability to implement the player centered application to provide design.
2)	Analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information and ideas from various perspectives.
3)	Analyze the key elements that make up specific game genres, forms of interactions, mode of narratives and understand how they are employed effectively to create a successful game.
4)	Understand game design theories and methods as well as implement them during game development; to make enjoyable, attractive, instructional and immersive according to the target audience.
5)	Understand the technology and computational principles involved in developing games and master the use of game engines.
6)	Understand the process of creation and use of 2D and 3D assets and animation for video games.
7)	Understand and master the theories and methodologies of understanding and measuring player experience and utilize them during game development process.
8)	Comprehend and master how ideas, concepts and topics are conveyed via games followed by the utilization of these aspects during the development process.
9)	Manage the game design and development process employing complete documentation; following the full game production pipeline via documentation.
10)	Understand and employ the structure and work modes of game development teams; comprehend the responsibilities of team members and collaborations between them while utilizing this knowledge in practice.
11)	Understand the process of game publishing within industry standards besides development and utilize this knowledge practice.
12)	Pitching a video game to developers, publishers, and players; mastering the art of effectively communicating and marketing the features and commercial potential of new ideas, concepts or games.