Deadline 2 and revisions to concept

Well, here we go! My adviser is submitting the forms for graduation this week (thanks SL), fees have been paid and now it's just code, code, code and write until it is done. Simple, eh?


I revised my proposal fleshing out the details of the game flow and pedagogy behind the game elements. The proposal forms the basis of the paper, the concept map forms the basis of the code. I include some of the visual elements for your viewing pleasure. (Did I mention, that I LOVE Woordle - it's how I got the word map above.)

Concept map:

A few observations -- the game that I want to create is complex. If I can get the basic framework,, some of the aesthetic elements, and one version of each type pedaogical element (mini-game, mini-case, etc.) then I'm golden. Wish me luck!

Deadline 1 - done!

Well, one week late, but I got the proposal out the door. Yeah! Hopefully my adviser will respond soon (she is on vacation in the Caribbean.)

From Dec'08 - Deserts

Unlike the first 2 drafts I wrote, the final one felt doable, especially as a proof of concept. The best thing about it, whatever I finish I feel I could use on the job market -- and that feels good. Also feel like the design is something that can grow over time and be used for different disciplines. I like that.

Now onto the next 3 things - will try to get something in so I can attend the Games Developer Conference in March (thanks for the suggestion Carla); will reshape a paper I wrote last spring -- which upon second reading is pretty good -- as a thought paper for potential employers (such as DukeCE); and yes, need to finish Module 5 of the Java course -- truly one the most tedious e-learning experiences of my life.

Onwards!

Moving Forward

Today I had a good, albeit brief, conversation with my adviser. We agreed that it is possible for me to graduate by May 2009. In order to do that I need to:

1. Complete a 1 page project proposal to her by Jan. 7 (she said 31st but I'm aiming for earlier)
2. Apply for graduation by Feb 1
   
3. Draft by mid-March '09
   
4. Complete project & paper by April 15 '09
   
5. Java certification equivalency by April 15

The basic outline of the paper/proposal should state:

1. What's the need
2. What's currently out there
3. Why is this different
4. Why this design
5. What is the pedagogy behind it
6. How does this lead to the design principles

The above 6 points is pretty much exactly what I did for every game design class. She just made it sound so doable.

<exhale> How I've missed bullet points and deadlines!