Learning Examples

Ideas for prototyping immersive literacy-building prototypes

Creative tinkering

Go to Sketchfab and download a suitable 3D model, transform it in a 3D editor (Blender, Tinkercad or more complex ones like Maya) and then load it back into Sketchfab, with voice over annotations and move to camera positions, this would allow you to create a step by step 3D blocking of a potential immersive environment. Sketchfab models can be embedded into Twitter or Facebook.

Paper prototyping

Download the crazy 8 minute prototyping challenge, and using the schematic in the game section, sketch out game ideas on large pieces of paper. Use storyboards, paper, crayons, and markers.

Modding and Machinima

Games can often let you mod them (modify them) to create new games. Prototype with a game engine that allows you to control the characters and the virtual camera, create your own movie (this is called Machinima). Explore how the immersive cues in the game can be communicated and given new layers of meaning. Games like the Sims can be used for Machinima, and there are also free tools.

Video roleplaying

If game modding and machinima is too complex or time consuming, use your acting skills instead. Using a suitable real-world background, or add it in with the greenscreen function of common video editing software, shoot a video with your friends roleplaying characters in the immersive environment.

A Virtual Escape Room

Develop an escape room in Minecraft educational version or a similar simple game creator/sandbox (there is also Minecraft VR). Test the player’s knowledge, they need to know the right combination, formula, or specific answer to open rooms and start equipment. Alternatively, students could instead create a cardboard or board-game version. There are physical escape room suggstions and examples for teachers to give their class, or digital versions (even using Google Forms!)