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Video Game Design Composition
The textbook provides the theory of video game design. It aligns with the
International Game Developers Association (IGDA) recommended educational
framework. Beginning with the recording of concepts and ideas in design
documents, students learn the composition of each of the complex structures
of a modern video game. Every piece of a video game, from characters, story,
strategy, sound, art, programming, and more, is deconstructed to reveal the
details of design before being reassembled in game builds.
Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is the
foundation on which our 21st century society builds and maintains economic
growth. This curriculum integrates the rigor and relevance of STEM into fun and
exciting classroom lessons. Taking rigor from each of the core areas of study
and placing it in the context of video game design allows students to recognize
the relevance of study. Students will gain experience in the skills needed for
most of the new jobs projected over the next two decades.
Through application and integration of all core areas of language arts,
science, mathematics, and social sciences, students become engaged in learning
through doing. Application and synthesis levels of learning are maintained for
a truly unique student experience. Through this meaningful engagement in
learning, students become better in all core subject areas and the foundations
of technology as presented in this text.
D. Michael Ploor is the author of three textbooks on the subject of video game
design: Introduction to Video Game Design, Video Game Design Foundations, and
Video Game Design Composition. He is a National Board Certified Teacher in Career
and Technical Education and holds an MBA degree from the University of South
Florida. He maintains professional teaching credentials in Business Education
(6–12) and Education Media Specialist (K–12). He is currently employed by the
School District of Hillsborough County in Tampa, Florida, where he has been
teaching video game design at the high school and middle school levels since 2001.
Mr. Ploor developed STEM curriculum while serving as the lead teacher
in the Career Academy of Computer Game Design at Middleton Magnet STEM
High School. Mr. Ploor has applied his skills as a STEM Curriculum Integration
Specialist in designing innovative curriculum and by collaborating to construct
the state standards for video game design in several states. He has also been
instrumental in authoring competitive events for Career and Technical Student
Organizations such as the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and
Phi Beta Lambda (PBL). He continues to work closely with many game design
studios, producers, and software developers to align educational objectives
to workplace-ready skills. In addition to publishing textbooks and lessons,
Mr. Ploor provides professional development as a frequent presenter at regional
and national conferences to promote STEM education and video game design
curriculum for the high school and middle school levels.
STEM
About the Author