The purpose of this module is to teach students the skills they need to produce 3D digital animation, models and filmmaking content of a quality that will enable them to develop instructional content, promotional videos and advertisements for their own projects, or for. industry clients. The key emphasis of the module is on learning the applied, vocational skills and to leverage 3D tools to design scenarios focused on user experience, interaction, explainability and usability. As part of this approach, students will be encouraged to develop their learning in an applied, continuous, progressive fashion, by keeping a development diary and portfolios to promote themselves to prospective employers.

The module will include the following: • Features of a 3D Modelling Integrated Design Environment (IDE) tools, such as Maya, 3DS MAX and Blender, that can be used to make short pieces of animation, models and promotional content, such as ads and/or instructional videos. • Design considerations for 3D models to be employed in animation projects, or used in advertisements and instructional videos. • Considering the key tool-based approach to the animation pipeline: as part of this the module students will cover poly-modelling and sculpting techniques, rigging models, keyframing and producing films from their content in film-editing software. • In addition to animation, students will look at advanced material effects: specifically, use of Shaders and Node Editors inside 3D Modelling IDE's, UV Mapping and Textures, Lighting Effects, Raytracing, Rendering and Compositing.• Learn industry specifications for interaction-design and user-focused technology. • Work also on film projects that may use CGI elements, or require Visual Effects expertise. • Consider visual narrative filmmaking and ways of telling stories. • Knowledge of working with specific tools and how best to leverage specific tools for creating a particular story, or conveying a specific message. • Keep portfolios as a way to promote work and enhance employability prospects. • Key focus on the conditions of work inside an interaction-design focused company and fostering an ability to prepare for entry-level skill-based performance tests, in such companies.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: • Employ the functionality of a 3D modelling toolkit to creating animation and models, to be used in ads, instructional videos and promotional work. • Design a visual narrative and use 3D animation tools to tell a story. • Demonstrate knowledge of 3D modelling technology, materials, animation and modelling specifically, to create scenarios and characters that are visually appealing, with specific attention shown to the appearance of models and the lighting of virtual scenes, as characters move through them and interact in a realistic way. • Build to specific client specifications, whilst working efficiently and expediently, when using 3D modelling tools. • Have the capacity to be versatile, in creating work that can be used for CGI projects, VFX and filmmaking projects too. • Demonstrate knowledge of the production pipeline, where different teams are involved, with different expertise. • Keep a professional portfolio of applied work and demonstrate knowledge of performance-based evaluation, in a commercial context.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: • Consider design and narrative ideas that do not exclude or marginalise specific people. • Cooperate in group activities.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

As part of the module, students will be encouraged to develop their learning in a continuous, progressive fashion, by keeping a development diary and portfolios to promote their work to prospective employers. Key speakers from industry may be invited to give talks and discuss networking opportunities with the students. Material will be presented in lectures and tutorials.