University of Sydney Handbooks - 2016 Archive

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Master of Interaction Design and Electronic Arts

Unit of study descriptions

Core Foundational units

IDEA9103 Design Programming

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Rob Saunders Session: Semester 1,Semester 2,Summer Main Classes: Tutorial 3hrs/wk Assessment: Participation (15%), summative technical competency tasks (85%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This unit aims to teach students an understanding of the stages involved in the development of software for design; skills in the design and implementation of software for design tasks and in the development of software as design tools. On the successful completion of this unit of study, students will have demonstrated through individual and group programming assignments: skills in using software tools to build interactive, visual design applications; knowledge of object-oriented programming concepts; implementation techniques such as editing, using libraries, and compilation and runtime environments; knowledge of programming language concepts including: classes, methods, object creation, instance and local variables, primitive and object types, simple I/O, and control flow; knowledge of software design and development processes including analysis of requirements, design of data-structures, functions and classes, software development lifecycles, and managing software projects. This unit is a foundational core unit in the Master of Interaction Design and Electronic Arts program.
IDEA9105 Interface Design

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Lian Loke Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Lecture 1hr/wk, Tutorial 2hrs/wk Assessment: Participation (10%); Design Assignments (90%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit introduces students to the fundamentals of user interface design. Interface design is an important element of a human-centred design approach to the development of interactive computational systems. Students will learn about industry standard user interface design and usability principles and guidelines, based in visual design theory and visual perception. They will acquire practical knowledge through the application of tools and techniques for designing and evaluating user interfaces for web and mobile products. The unit increases awareness of good and bad design through observation and evaluation of existing technology, and develops appreciation of visual design principles and their impact on the user experience of interactive products. The knowledge and skills developed in this unit will equip students with the essential capabilities for working in the interaction design and user experience profession. This unit is a foundational core unit in the Master of Interaction Design and Electronic Arts program.
IDEA9106 Design Thinking

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Lian Loke Session: Semester 1,Semester 2,Summer Late Classes: Lecture 1hr/wk, Tutorial 2hrs/wk Assessment: Design assignments (90%), Participation (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study provides an overview of a human-centred approach to the design of products and systems. It introduces students to design thinking and how it can be productively applied to different design situations. The theoretical concepts, methods and tools for the key stages of interaction design are covered including user research, ideation, prototyping and user evaluation. It provides students with the principles, processes and tools for working collaboratively on design projects in studio. The cognitive processes of individual designers are also explored. Students learn to build empathy with users, identify and reframe the problem space, develop value-driven design concepts and persuasively communicate design proposals with an emphasis on the user experience through visual storytelling.

Core Advanced units

Students have a choice of either IDEA9101 and IDEA9102 or IDEA9201 /IDEA9202 for advanced core units
IDEA9101 IDEA Laboratory 1

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Rob Saunders Session: Semester 1a Classes: Friday and/or Saturday blocks 6hrs/day Prerequisites: IDEA9103 Corequisites: IDEA9102 Assessment: 3 x Individual Assignments (100%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
Note: Students may incur materials costs in this unit
The aim of this unit of study is the learning of key technical skills for prototyping and building interactive digital media within a creative design framework. The unit provides an introduction to the fundamentals of various software and hardware construction tools, and the technological platforms available for building sensor-based interfaces. The lab sessions will be conducted as a series of intensive workshops during the first half of the semester. Students will gain practical experience through a series of exercises and assignments. For those students enrolled in IDEA9102 IDEA Studio 1, it will provide the foundation for the technical implementation of the studio project.
IDEA9102 IDEA Studio 1

Credit points: 12 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Rob Saunders Session: Semester 1,Semester 1b Classes: Friday/Saturday blocks 6hrs/day Prerequisites: IDEA9106 Corequisites: IDEA9101 Assessment: Project (100%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
Note: Students may incur materials costs in this unit.
The aim of the studio is to explore new interaction possibilities offered by emerging digital technologies through a design-led approach. Each studio is based around one or more design projects, which address a specialised area of study, supported by lectures and seminars to introduce the relevant theory, knowledge and design precedents. The specialized areas of study will vary from semester to semester, ranging for example from small-scale wearable devices to large-scale environments, and will reflect contemporary issues in interaction, art, design, culture and technology. The studio aims to develop the student's conceptual design abilities together with their technical skills, within the framework of a highly creative, research-based and human-centred design process. Students will be expected to apply interaction design methodologies to their project work and follow a design-oriented approach to the development of hardware and software, through experimentation and iterative prototyping.
IDEA9201 IDEA Laboratory 2

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Lian Loke Session: Semester 2a Classes: Friday and or Saturday blocks 6hrs/day Prerequisites: IDEA9103 Corequisites: IDEA9202 Assessment: 3 x Individual Assignments (100%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
Note: Students may incur materials costs in this unit
The aim of this unit of study is the learning of key technical skills for prototyping and building interactive digital media within a creative design framework. The unit provides an introduction to the fundamentals of various software and hardware construction tools, and the technological platforms available for building sensor-based interfaces. The lab sessions will be conducted as a series of intensive workshops during the first half of the semester. Students will gain practical experience through a series of exercises and assignments. For those students enrolled in IDEA9202 IDEA Studio 2, it will provide the foundation for the technical implementation of the studio project.
IDEA9202 IDEA Studio 2

Credit points: 12 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Lian Loke Session: Semester 2,Semester 2b Classes: Friday/Saturday blocks 6hrs/day Prerequisites: IDEA9106 Corequisites: IDEA9201 Assessment: Project (100%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
Note: Students may incur materials costs in this unit.
The aim of the studio is to explore new interaction possibilities offered by emerging digital technologies through a design-led approach. Each studio is based around one or more design projects, which address a specialised area of study, supported by lectures and seminars to introduce the relevant theory, knowledge and design precedents. The specialized areas of study will vary from semester to semester, ranging for example from small-scale wearable devices to large-scale environments, and will reflect contemporary issues in interaction, art, design, culture and technology. The studio aims to develop the student's conceptual design abilities together with their technical skills, within the framework of a highly creative, research-based and human-centred design process. Students will be expected to apply interaction design methodologies to their project work and follow a design-oriented approach to the development of hardware and software, through experimentation and iterative prototyping.

Capstone

IDEA9301 Graduation Studio

Credit points: 12 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Lian Loke Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 2hrs/wk Prerequisites: 48 Credit Points including (18 credit points from IDEA9103 and IDEA9105 and IDEA9106) and (18 credit points from IDEA9101 and IDEA9102 and IDEA9201 and IDEA9202) Assessment: Project (90%); Portfolio (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This is the culminating studio of the Master of Interaction Design and Electronic Arts that provides students with a capstone experience. The aim of this studio is to draw together and synthesise the learning that has taken place during the whole degree. The student will develop a graduation design project based on an industry-focused brief. Students will work in small teams or individually to produce a design proposal and solution that addresses industry relevant issues and challenges and incorporates innovate interactions and applications of emergent technologies. The submitted design work should be of high quality suitable for professional presentation and portfolio.

Electives

Electives may be chosen from the recommended set below or, with the permission of the Progam Director, from any postgraduate couse in the University.

Research

IDEA9302, IDEA9303 or IDEA9311 may replace the capstone unit with the permission of the Program Director.
IDEA9302 IDEA Research Project

Credit points: 12 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Lian Loke Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Group Supervision 2hrs/wk Prerequisites: 48 Credit Points including (18 credit points from IDEA9103 and IDEA9105 and IDEA9106) and (18 credit points from IDEA9101 and IDEA9102 and IDEA9201 and IDEA9202) Assessment: Proposal and Presentation (10%); Research Report and Buildt Work (80%); Final Presentation (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: This unit of study is available to MIDEA students only. Students must seek permission to enrol from the Program Director before the start of the teaching semester.
The research project offers students the opportunity to work on an individual research project exploring current problems and issues in a wide range of application areas that would benefit from an inter-disciplinary design research approach to design, technology and human-computer interaction. Students can choose to follow one of the primary types of design research: design (a fundamental component of the research is the design and implementation of an artefact/system); empirical (empirical data gathering is required to understand a phenomenon); model (a computational model is generated to understand a phenomenon); and studio-based (creative/experimental design or artform is produced for exhibition). Students must prepare a research proposal outlining the research objectives and questions, a brief literature review, the research methodology and a timeline.
This unit of study can be taken alone (Option 1) for students wishing to focus on the practice of design research, or in conjunction with IDEA9303 Research Dissertation (Option 2) for students wishing to develop their academic research capacity and with an interest in further postgraduate research study.
For Option 1, students must submit documentation of their design work and built artefacts produced during the research. The designed/built artefacts will be assessed on the merits of their underlying design rationale or original conceptual thinking, and their implementation in the form of software, hardware, theoretical discourse or other physical manifestation. A research report should be 8,000 to 10,000 words in length.
For Option 2, a single result is given for the combined project and dissertation - see IDEA9303 for the assessment criteria.
IDEA9303 IDEA Dissertation

Credit points: 12 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Lian Loke Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Group Supervision 2hrs/wk Corequisites: IDEA9302 Assessment: Proposal and presentation (10%); Dissertation and built work (80%); Mixed media documentation and final presentation (10%) Mode of delivery: Supervision
Note: This unit of study is available to MIDEA students only. Students must seek permission to enrol from the Program Director before the start of the teaching semester.
The combined research project and dissertation offers students the opportunity to work on an individual research project exploring current problems and issues in a wide range of application areas that would benefit from an inter-disciplinary design research approach to design, technology and human-computer interaction. Students can choose to follow one of the primary types of design research: design (a fundamental component of the research is the design and implementation of an artefact/system); empirical (empirical data gathering is required to understand a phenomenon); model (a computational model is generated to understand a phenomenon); and studio-based (creative/experimental design or artform is produced for exhibition).
IDEA9311 IDEA Research Internship

Credit points: 12 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Lian Loke Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Min. 8 hrs/semester group supervision; 2 hrs/wk supervision by private partner Prerequisites: 48 Credit Points including (18 credit points from IDEA9103 and IDEA9105 and IDEA9106) and (18 credit points from IDEA9101 and IDEA9102 and IDEA9201 and IDEA9202) Assessment: Proposal and presentation (10%); Written report and built work (70%); Critical reflection on design process and logbook (10%); Mixed media documentation and final presentation (10%) Mode of delivery: Professional practice
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Students must seek permission to enrol from the IDEA Director before the start of the teaching semester. Internship must end before end of semester. Advanced standing will not be granted for this unit of study.
This unit allows students to collaborate with a private partner on a project with a strong design research character. Such project would typically not be connected to the direct commercial goals, require a certain degree of risk, and necessitates a level of technical and design expertise that is not available by the private partner. The program coordinator can choose to offer pre-approved client briefs from known external partners to interested students. Students need to submit a written project proposal, detailing the project objectives, the approach, the intended outcomes and timeline of the internship, and the agreement from the private partner. The proposal must describe how the outcomes of the internship will include the design and production of a design work that has a clear relationship to the skills and knowledge taught in the IDEA program. The total workload should reflect a 12 credit point unit of study in this degree. At completion, the student must submit: a log book (physical or digital) of their internship activities, together with a critical reflection on their design process (of at least 1000 words); a written report describing the design concept, rationale, design methodology, the development structure, and an evaluation of the design work undertaken at the internship (of at least 5000 words); and mixed media documentation of the work. The student is expected to present their work to peers and assessors. The academic supervisor, the program coordinator and the private partner will jointly assess the work. Students must seek permission to enrol from the program coordinator before the start of the teaching semester. It is at the sole discretion of the Program Director to approve the private partner and project. Approval must be sought before enrolling. Internship must end before end of semester. Credit will not be granted for this unit of study.

Recommended electives

MARC6102 3D Computer Design Modelling

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Dagmar Reinhardt Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Lecture and computer laboratory contact, plus self-directed preparation and assignments, for a minimum total student commitment averaging 9 hours per week. Assessment: Exercises Weeks 1-10 (60%); Final Portfolio Weeks 11-13 (40%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Enrolment numbers limited by teaching resources. If your attempt to enrol online is unsuccessful, please seek permission from the Student Administration Centre (SAC).
This unit of study consolidates students' knowledge of advanced concepts in digital modelling and visualization media available for architectural design. The unit develops conceptual understanding and practical application of these techniques, using commercial modelling and rendering packages. It will help students: generate sophisticated 3D modelling through pre-packaged techniques and scripting processes, assign colour and texture information, generate complex photorealistic images and develop transferable conceptual skills that apply across different 3D packages and for different contexts such as modeling, animation, games assets, and photorealistic rendering. At the conclusion of this unit students should be conversant with 3D modeling and photo-rendering terminology and have the ability to produce sophisticated digital models and photorealistic images. Class preparation: 3 hours/week, assessment preparation 8 hours/semester.
DESC9117 Sound Design for New Media

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Michael Bates/Assoc Prof William Martens Session: Semester 2 Classes: Seminars 3 hrs/wk Assessment: Class attendance (25%); participation and journal (15%); major project: initial proposal presentation and 1000 word assignment (20%), final project (40%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The objectives of this unit are to introduce essential sound design concepts including editing, synchronisation, rhythm and audiovisual counterpoint; to provide an overview of the sound design for visual media process including development an understanding of the historical impact of film 'factory', radio and television broadcasting production antecedents on the design language; to learn skills in track-laying, mixing and mastering audio for different media and genres; to learn essential sound recording skills; to learn the creation of various psychoacoustic effects and atmospheres; and to learn essential file management and archiving skills; to learn essential post-production skills in computer-based sound design in a studio environment. This unit is intended to give an understanding of the theory and practice of digital audio production for various visual media including digital video, web-based and interactive media. Using the industry standard ProTools software the unit will look at current computer-based tools and techniques available to the sound designer, as well as examine the various underlying strategies, processes, and sound design philosophies. The unit will offer a grounding in the history, theory and criticism of sound design and its applicability to current digital visual media. It will introduce conventional and non-conventional production models across a range of media production modes in broadcasting and multimedia.
The sound designer's role in the process of creation of meaning will be examined in cultural as well as technical contexts of compositional practices. It is anticipated that the unit will encourage debate about and a demystification of current production practices. It will aim at developing and extending production techniques towards an individual aesthetic.
At the completion of this unit students will be expected to: understand the aural medium, essential concepts and terms; have an overview of film 'factory', radio and television broadcasting production antecedents on the design language; be acquainted with the history, theory and criticism of audiovisual technology and design; develop an audiovisual language; understand spatial aspects of sound design; and develop technical and conceptual skills in preproduction, general miking techniques, post-synchronisation dialogue, editing dialogue, producing sound effects, multi-track laying, selecting music, creating atmospheres and various psychoacoustic effects, synchronisation and related issues, and mixing sound for vision.
DESC9154 Lighting Design Software

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Wendy Davis Session: Semester 2 Classes: 5 day intensive (9am-5pm) Assessment: 2 assignments (2 x 50%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
Modern lighting design practice requires the use of computer software to create design plans that can be easily modified, shared, and presented to clients. In this unit, students learn the basic operation of popular lighting design software packages, with particular emphasis on AGi32. This unit discusses the advantages and limitations of different calculation models used within lighting software. The fundamentals of rendering, importing and exporting data, selecting calculation modes, interpreting outputs, and complying with lighting design standards are included. Students gain hands-on experience modelling the effects of different lighting technologies within various architectural spaces. The use of lighting design software as a tool in the design process, rather than a replacement for it, is emphasized.
DESC9164 Lighting Technologies

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Wendy Davis Session: Semester 2 Classes: 5 day intensive. Prohibitions: DESC9063 Assessment: Two assignments (2 x 50%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
This unit covers the technologies employed in generating, distributing, and controlling light in illuminated environments. Students learn the advantages and disadvantages of different hardware options for various lighting applications. A brief history of lighting technologies and the physical processes involved with electrically generating light are included in this unit. Practical characteristics of currently popular lamp types, as well as emerging lighting technologies, are presented. The effects of integral luminaires and other light fittings on the resulting illumination are covered, as are the electrical requirements of different lighting technologies. This unit also includes calculation techniques for predicting the illumination in spaces from lighting products. The selection, operation, and implications of lighting control options are discussed. The underlying principles and practical consequences of the different characteristics of various lighting technologies are emphasized to enable students to independently evaluate future innovations in lighting technologies.
DESA9008 Object Design

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Koji Ryui Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Workshop 3 hrs/wk Prohibitions: AWSS2020 Assumed knowledge: DESA1555 Assessment: Studio Projects and associated tasks (70%); Research Process Journal (30%) Practical field work: Studio practice NB: Students may incur costs for materials in some units Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
In this unit students develop and inter-relate manufacturing and artisan skills with research, analysis and design development. It aims to develop a critical awareness of the nature of all objects, which surround us, exploring cultural, contextual and symbolic aspects of object design as well as functional and aesthetic qualities. The unit aims to increase appreciation of the materiality of objects focusing on timber as an example and introduces students to the wonderful diversity of timber species, environmental and ethical issues associated with their selection, and also emerging alternative materials. Through a series of exercises and production of their major project, students develop knowledge of construction techniques and skills in using wood/plastics tools and machinery and in so doing, build an awareness of industrial and craft practices and how they impact on the design process and outcome. Students will be expected to produce a research process journal and report on how a particular artist/s or art movement has informed or influenced their final project/s.
DESC9153 Graduate Internship

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Dean (Education) Session: Intensive December,Intensive July,Intensive November,Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Fieldwork Assessment: Log book signed by practice supervisor and 2,000 word report on the benefits of the internship (100%); pass/fail only Mode of delivery: Professional practice
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Masters students only. Graduate Diploma students with permission of the Program Coordinator. Advanced Standing will not be granted for this unit of study.
The aims of the internship are to provide a direct link between the academic core of the course and the disciplines and methods of practice; to enable candidates to experience aspects of practice and provide the opportunity for them to work in areas of the field outside their specific expertise; to enable candidates to observe, analyse and comment on the interaction between theoretical and practical issues of their Program as it is practiced, and to establish connections between practice and the development of relevant research programs. The internship is intended to provide the opportunity for students to work in various situations in their Program's area. A secondary intention is that students use the opportunities of placement to broaden their own experience beyond the limitations of their chosen discipline. Candidates must find a suitable professional placement. Permission to enrol is given after the proposed placement has been approved by the Program Director. The host organisation will nominate a supervisor for the student for the internship. The student must complete at least 120 hours of full or part-time experience, supervised by a practicing designer (or other professional depending upon the field). A log-book of each day's work, signed by the supervisor must be submitted on completion. A 2,000-word report on the benefits of the internship must also be produced. At the end of the internship the student will: demonstrate that they have completed a program of work (through a log-book); present a report; analyse their experiences and compare these to the theoretical content of the units they have completed, and suggest appropriate research directions so as to improve the complementarity of theory to practice.
ARIN6902 Internet Governance

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1,Summer Late Classes: 1x2hr seminar/week Assessment: 1x1500wd Report to government (25%), 1x1200wd Journalistic article (25%), 1x2500wd Essay (40%), 1x800wd equivalent Seminar participation (10%), Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Privacy, piracy, cyberbullying, trolls, censorship, cybersecurity, surveillance, online petitions and propaganda are just some of the issues we navigate in our daily lives online. This unit of study frames these issues historically, culturally and philosophically. The forums of internet governance are a microcosm of global governance that allow expression of national identity, and positioning in international relations. Students taking this unit will gain a critical understanding of one of the most important global policy issues of our time.
ARIN6904 Mobile Media and Games

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1x2hr seminar/week Assessment: 1x1500wd Review and presentation (25%), 1x3000wd Critical Essay (40%), 1x1500wd Game/app concept (25%), Seminar participation (10%), Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Networked mobile devices and computer games are increasingly prominent in today's mediascapes, supporting practices of individualised mobility and play. This unit of study critically examines the aesthetics, politics and everyday uses of these emerging cultural technologies. It draws on new media studies, game studies and platform studies to explore themes such as the complication of leisure and work spaces, new media industries, gamification, playbour and mobile social media.
ARIN6905 New Media Audiences

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1x2hr seminar/week Prohibitions: ARIN6903 Assessment: 1x1500wd Seminar presentation (20%), 1x2500wd Essay (40%), 1x2000wd case study reviews (blog) (30%), Seminar participation (10%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Media audiences are experiencing knowledge, art and entertainment in novel ways as cultural industries increasingly take up emerging technologies. New Media Audiences investigates the range of contemporary practices of production, distribution and consumption associated with digital tools. We examine the sites where audiences experience digital media: art galleries, cinemas, theatres, homes, mobile devices, public spaces, workplaces and online. We analyse how these spaces and interfaces structure audience experience, afford interaction and encourage participation.
COMP5047 Pervasive Computing

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Bob Kummerfeld Session: Semester 2 Classes: Studio class 3 hrs/week. Assumed knowledge: Background in programming and operating systems that is sufficient for the student to independently learn new programming tools from standard online technical materials. Ability to conduct a literature search. Ability to write reports of work done. Assessment: Through semester assessment (60%) and Final Exam (40%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This is an advanced course in HCI, Human Computer Interaction, with a focus on Pervasive Computing. It introduces the key aspects of HCI and explores these in terms of the new research towards creating user interfaces that disappear into the environment and are available pervasively, for example in homes, workplaces, cars and carried or work.
COMP5114 Digital Media Fundamentals

This unit of study is not available in 2016

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1 Classes: One 2 hour lecture and one 1 hour tutorial per week. Assessment: Through semester assessment (50%), Final Exam (50%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Digital media has become indispensable our heterogeneous computing and communication environment. This unit provides an overview of creating, processing, manipulating, and compressing digital media which mainly include image, audio and video. It introduces principles and current techniques such as multimedia data acquisition, analysis, processing and compression and management. It also elaborates different multimedia coding standards, various multimedia systems and cutting-edge multimedia applications such as web media.
COMP5211 Algorithms

This unit of study is not available in 2016

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: One 2 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week. Assumed knowledge: This unit of study assumes that students have general knowledge of mathematics (especially Discrete Math) and problem solving. Having moderate knowledge about Data structure can also help students to better understand the concepts of Algorithms will be taught in this course. Some knowledge of computer programming is required. Assessment: Through semester assessment (40%), Final Exam (60%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The study of algorithms is a fundamental aspect of computing. This unit of study covers data structures, algorithms, and gives an overview of the main ways of computational thinking from simple list manipulation and data format conversion, up to shortest paths and cycle detection in graphs. Students will gain essential knowledge in computer science, including basic concepts in data structures, algorithms, and intractability, using paradigms such as dynamic programming, divide and conquer, greed, local search, and randomisation, as well NP-hardness.
COMP5214 Software Development in Java

This unit of study is not available in 2016

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: One 2 hour lecture and one 1 hour tutorial per week. Assessment: Through semester assessment (40%), Final Exam (60% Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Programming in a legible, maintainable, reusable way is essential to solve complex problems in the pervasive computing environments. This unit will equip students with foundation of programming concepts that are common to widely used programming languages. Students will be progressively guided in this introductory unit from necessary and important building blocks of programming to the object-oriented approach. Java, one of the most popular programming languages, is used in this unit. It provides interdisciplinary approaches, applications and examples to support students from broad backgrounds such as science, engineering, and mathematics.
COMP5216 Mobile Computing

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Tom Cai Session: Semester 2 Classes: Lecture 2 hrs/week; Tutorial 1 hr/week. Assumed knowledge: COMP5214 Software Development in JAVA, or similar introductory software development units. Assessment: Through semester assessment (45%) and Final Exam (55%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Mobile computing is becoming a main stream for many IT applications, due to the availability of more and more powerful and affordable mobile devices with rich sensors such as cameras and GPS, which have already significantly changed many aspects in business, education, social network, health care, and entertainment in our daily life. Therefore it has been critical for students to be equipped with sufficient knowledge of such new computing platform and necessary skills. The unit aims to provide an in-depth overview of existing and emerging mobile computing techniques and applications, the eco-system of the mobile computing platforms, and its key building components. The unit will also train students with hand-on experiences in developing mobile applications in a broad range of areas.
COMP5347 Web Application Development

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Ying Zhou Session: Semester 1 Classes: Lecture 2 hrs/week; Laboratory 1 hr/week; Project Work - own time 3 hrs/week; Independent Study, Assumed knowledge: INFO9220 or COMP5028. The course assumes basic knowledge on OO design and UML diagrams. Assessment: Through semester assessment (40%) and Final Exam (60%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit will focus on technological advances supporting the development of e-commerce applications and systems. This includes client and server side development of e-commerce applications. AJAX is the core client side technology covered in this course. Both server scripting and server page technology are covered as key server side technology. It will also examine the emerging trend of web services and its role in E-commerce systems. This unit aims at providing both conceptual understanding and hand-on experiences for the technologies covered.
Textbooks
Bryan Basham, Kathy Sierra & Bert Bates/Head First Servlet & JSP/2nd/2008// Leon Shklar and Rich Rosen/Web Application Architecture/2nd/2009//
COMP5427 Usability Engineering

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof Judy Kay Session: Semester 2 Classes: Lecture 2 hrs/week; Laboratory 2 hrs/week. Assessment: Through semester assessment (60%) and Final Exam (40%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Usability engineering is the systematic process of designing and evaluating user interfaces so that they are usable. This means that people can readily learn to use them efficiently, can later remember how to use them and find it pleasant to use them. The wide use of computers in many aspects of people's lives means that usability engineering is of the utmost importance.
There is a substantial body of knowledge about how to elicit usability requirements, identify the tasks that a system needs to support, design interfaces and then evaluate them. This makes for systematic ways to go about the creation and evaluation of interfaces to be usable for the target users, where this may include people with special needs. The field is extremely dynamic with the fast emergence of new ways to interact, ranging from conventional WIMP interfaces, to touch and gesture interaction, and involving mobile, portable, embedded and desktop computers.
This unit will enable students to learn the fundamental concepts, methods and techniques of usability engineering. Students will practice these in small classroom activities. They will then draw them together to complete a major usability evaluation assignment in which they will design the usability testing process, recruit participants, conduct the evaluation study, analyse these and report the results.
Textbooks
Hartson, Rex, and Pardha S. Pyla./The UX Book: Process and Guidelines for Ensuring a Quality User Experience./[http://www.theuxbook.net/]/2012//
COMP5415 Multimedia Design and Authoring

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof David Feng, Dr Xiu Ying Wang Session: Semester 2 Classes: Lecture 2 hrs/week; Tutorial 1 hr/week. Assumed knowledge: COMP5114 or COMP9419. Assessment: Through semester assessment (40%) and Final Exam (60%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit provides principles and practicalities of creating interactive and effective multimedia products. It gives an overview of the complete spectrum of different media platforms and current authoring techniques used in multimedia production. Coverage includes the following key topics: enabling multimedia technologies; multimedia design issues; interactive 2D and 3D computer animation; multimedia object modelling and rendering; multimedia scripting programming; post-production and delivery of multimedia applications.
MFDI9313 Digital Editing for Film and Video

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1x3-hour studio class/week Assessment: project proposal (25%) and class presentation (15%) and project (60%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The aim of this unit of study is to equip you with a conceptual understanding and technical expertise in the use of digital editing for film and video projects. You will be introduced to the use of software programs such as Final Cut Pro HD to explain how edit moving images in to a project and how moving images can be transformed over time in combination with text, masks, filters, effects and sound. You will learn how to edit and master in Final Cut Pro HD through an intensive series of tutorials film/video screenings and practical studio workshops. This will culminate in the production of a studio project. The project is to be developed in consultation with an academic adviser.
MMDE6001 History and Theory of New Media 1

This unit of study is not available in 2016

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 1x1hour lecture and 1x2 hour tutorial/week Assessment: 1 x 2000 word essay (50%) and 1 x tutorial seminar (30%) and participation in class exercises (20%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
The aim of this unit of study is to provide you with a theoretical understanding of New Media forms. The concept of New Media is explored in relation to interactivity, narrative, networked space and, more specifically, the Internet. The unit provides both an historical overview and critical perspective to a range of approaches and forms that have emerged in direct relationship to the possibilities of digital technology and networked space. A range of digital, interactive and internet-based art and design projects will be examined and discussed in relation to key concepts surrounding new media. This unit will allow you to conceptualise and situate your practice both in terms of media-specific debates and the broader context of contemporary art and media discourses.
MMDE6101 Animation for Interactive Media & Video

This unit of study is not available in 2016

Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 1x1-hour lecture and 1x2-hour tutorial/week Assessment: 1x15min oral examination of presentation of major studio project (60%) and pre-production documentation (20%) and participation in class exercises (20%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Special permission is required for cross-faculty enrolments. Please contact unit of study co-oridinator.
The aim of this unit of study is to give you a comprehensive understanding of techniques and approaches to enable you to create animated sequences for use in interactive media and video. Through a combination of film/video screenings, tutorials, practical studio seminars and class critiques you will be provided with an understanding of the creative potential of animation. A range of digital techniques will be explored, including the use of software programs such as Adobe Flash. You will learn techniques such as rotoscoping, and frame-by-frame animation while being introduced to fundamental approaches for producing 2D animated sequences in the digital environment. In addition, a range of other techniques such as stop-motion animation will be examined in the context of contemporary production. During the semester you will complete a short animation project that will be developed, along with supporting paper-based designs, in consultation with an academic advisor.
CMPN5006 Recording Portfolio

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Ivan Zavada Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 3 to 5 hours per week of recording projects, consultations with Supervisor and participation in seminar workshops. Assessment: Recording projects and class presentation (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit provides a practical introduction to recording projects. Aspects of creative production are examined alongside project planning, management and the professional delivery of master recordings to appropriate standards. The student, in consultation with their supervisor, will devise a program of practical recording projects. This program will integrate into the existing musical activities that occur at the Conservatorium and as such the hours will be flexible and may include, evening and weekend projects. In addition students will be required to attend and participate in a number of seminars/workshops.

Audio and Acoustics specialisation

DESC9090 Audio Systems and Measurement

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Assoc Prof William Martens Session: Semester 2 Classes: Lectures 10 x 3hrs, Labs 3 x 3hrs (and continued lab projects) Assumed knowledge: DESC9138 Assessment: 1 x 1200 word report (30%), 1 x 2000 word report (40%), oral presentation (15%), 3 x in-class quiz (15%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Students will learn to make and understand a wide range of acoustical and electroacoustical measurements, assessed through laboratory work; students will learn major aspects of sound system design, assessed through project work; students will work in small groups in laboratory and project work; Audio Systems and Measurement will develop knowledge and practical skills in electroacoustics; and the laboratory and project work will extend thinking and personal skills, so that students can apply the unit content to new situations.
Upon completing Audio Systems and Measurement, students will be expected to understand the implementation and limitations of a wide range of audio and acoustical measurement techniques, such as sound pressure, sound intensity, sound power, source directivity, reverberation, intelligibility, echo interference, subjective quality, and component distortion. Students will also be expected to be able to design sound reinforcement systems, and to model audio system performance using various theoretical techniques.
DESC9011 Audio Production

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Densil Cabrera Session: Semester 1 Classes: Lecture 3 hrs/wk Assessment: Project development (40%); final project (40%); presentation (20%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Departmental Permission will be required to enrol in this unit.
This unit will look at the current tools and techniques, as well as the underlying strategies, processes and inherent philosophies involved in the various audio production modes. It will compare and contrast broadcast and other media production methods and ideologies including music recording, radio production, and new media, with reference to location recording practices.
The unit will examine various sound design philosophies, conventional and 'non-conventional' production models, different definitions by and of producers and provide by way of context a brief history of the impact on production practice by technological change.
The producer's role in the process of the creation of meaning will be examined in cultural as well as technical contexts of compositional practices. The unit will encourage debate about and a demystification of current production processes and will aim at developing and extending production techniques towards an individual aesthetic. Students will achieve proficiency with mixing consoles, the fundamentals of multi-track recording and digital editing; demonstrate an ability to communicate their ideas, and articulate the reasons for their choices of production methods; and work successfully within a group dynamic.
Students are expected to work in groups to produce an audio project in one or more of the following areas: drama, feature, documentary, sound composition, or music recording. Students are expected to: participate in the workshops; complete class exercises/constructions; read additional materials to discuss in classes; submit a script, composition or otherwise detailed proposal for recording and postproduction with detailed raison d'etre of production values; produce and present a completed audio project, including documentation, evidence of background research, a commentary on the production and production outcomes, track sheets, mixing notes. It may be an adaptation or original work. Themes will be discussed in class.
DESC9115 Digital Audio Systems

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Assoc Prof William Martens Session: Semester 1 Classes: Lectures 13 x 1.5 hrs, Labs 13 x 1.5 hrs Assessment: Two written review assignments (40%); one laboratory report (20%); weekly lab assignments (20%), 4 x in-class quiz (20%) Practical field work: Practical exercises include programming for digital signal processing of audio signals using high-level software packages to generate, manipulate and analyse sounds. Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The objective of this unit is to provide both a strong theoretical understanding of digital audio and practical experience in applying these principles to digital audio systems. This unit offers a systematic approach to understanding digital audio systems. Beginning with basic principles the unit provides a knowledge base for understanding advanced digital audio components, systems and techniques. Examples of everyday audio signals are used and characterised in terms of their temporal and spectral properties. Practical application is emphasised and is supported through laboratory exercises that include programming as well as the use of current hardware and software packages. Topics include: digital principles, digital systems, sampling and quantisation, 1-bit and multi-bit conversion, digital signal processing, filtering, spectral analysis, sampling-rate conversion, data compression (MPEG etc), effects processing (echo, reverb etc), virtual reality audio, mixing, editing, optical storage (CD and DVD), magnetic storage (DAT and disks) and transmission formats (AES/EBU, SPDIF etc).
Having successfully completed this unit the student will have the tools to understand what happens to a digital audio signal when a given process is applied to it; how to best apply this process and how to successfully combine digital audio components.
DESC9117 Sound Design for New Media

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Michael Bates/Assoc Prof William Martens Session: Semester 2 Classes: Seminars 3 hrs/wk Assessment: Class attendance (25%); participation and journal (15%); major project: initial proposal presentation and 1000 word assignment (20%), final project (40%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The objectives of this unit are to introduce essential sound design concepts including editing, synchronisation, rhythm and audiovisual counterpoint; to provide an overview of the sound design for visual media process including development an understanding of the historical impact of film 'factory', radio and television broadcasting production antecedents on the design language; to learn skills in track-laying, mixing and mastering audio for different media and genres; to learn essential sound recording skills; to learn the creation of various psychoacoustic effects and atmospheres; and to learn essential file management and archiving skills; to learn essential post-production skills in computer-based sound design in a studio environment. This unit is intended to give an understanding of the theory and practice of digital audio production for various visual media including digital video, web-based and interactive media. Using the industry standard ProTools software the unit will look at current computer-based tools and techniques available to the sound designer, as well as examine the various underlying strategies, processes, and sound design philosophies. The unit will offer a grounding in the history, theory and criticism of sound design and its applicability to current digital visual media. It will introduce conventional and non-conventional production models across a range of media production modes in broadcasting and multimedia.
The sound designer's role in the process of creation of meaning will be examined in cultural as well as technical contexts of compositional practices. It is anticipated that the unit will encourage debate about and a demystification of current production practices. It will aim at developing and extending production techniques towards an individual aesthetic.
At the completion of this unit students will be expected to: understand the aural medium, essential concepts and terms; have an overview of film 'factory', radio and television broadcasting production antecedents on the design language; be acquainted with the history, theory and criticism of audiovisual technology and design; develop an audiovisual language; understand spatial aspects of sound design; and develop technical and conceptual skills in preproduction, general miking techniques, post-synchronisation dialogue, editing dialogue, producing sound effects, multi-track laying, selecting music, creating atmospheres and various psychoacoustic effects, synchronisation and related issues, and mixing sound for vision.

Illumination Design specialisation

DESC9164 Lighting Technologies

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Wendy Davis Session: Semester 2 Classes: 5 day intensive. Prohibitions: DESC9063 Assessment: Two assignments (2 x 50%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
This unit covers the technologies employed in generating, distributing, and controlling light in illuminated environments. Students learn the advantages and disadvantages of different hardware options for various lighting applications. A brief history of lighting technologies and the physical processes involved with electrically generating light are included in this unit. Practical characteristics of currently popular lamp types, as well as emerging lighting technologies, are presented. The effects of integral luminaires and other light fittings on the resulting illumination are covered, as are the electrical requirements of different lighting technologies. This unit also includes calculation techniques for predicting the illumination in spaces from lighting products. The selection, operation, and implications of lighting control options are discussed. The underlying principles and practical consequences of the different characteristics of various lighting technologies are emphasized to enable students to independently evaluate future innovations in lighting technologies.
DESC9166 Photometry and Colorimetry

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Wendy Davis Session: Semester 1 Classes: Five day intensive. Prohibitions: DESC9072 Assessment: Two assignments (2 x 50%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
Measurements of light based only on physical properties are of limited use to the lighting designer. Instead, the tools to measure and communicate the characteristics of light sources and illumination consider the impact of the physical attributes of light on the human visual system. This unit covers the photometric measures related to the quantity of light and illumination and the colorimetric systems used to characterize the colour of lights and objects. The calculation methods underlying these measures are included, with an emphasis on useful simulation techniques. The derivations, meanings, proper applications, and limitations of these measurements systems are discussed. An overview of physical instruments for photometric and colorimetric measurements is included. Students learn to apply knowledge of photometry and colorimetry to evaluate lighting products.
DESC9167 Light and Vision

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Wendy Davis Session: Semester 1 Classes: Five day intensive (9am-5pm) Prohibitions: DESC9085 Assessment: Two assignments (2 x 50%) Mode of delivery: Block mode
In lighting design, the primary function of light is to facilitate visual perception of the illuminated scene. User-centred lighting design requires a thorough understanding of the biological link between light and vision. In this unit, students learn the fundamentals of the human visual system and the physical properties of light that impact perception. Specific topics includes an overview of visual anatomy, the behaviour of the photoreceptors, and post-receptoral processing that leads to colour perception. The spectral, spatial, and temporal characteristics of visual processing are also covered. Important visual phenomena, such as chromatic adaptation and contrast sensitivity, are discussed. The link between fundamental knowledge of the human visual system and the practical application of lighting design is emphasized.
DESC9198 Subjective Analysis in Lighting Design

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Wendy Davis Session: Semester 2 Classes: Lectures and Studio - 35 hours/semester Assessment: Group Design Project Report and Presentation (50%); Individual Design Report (50%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Lighting to a high aesthetic standard under pre-determined constraints requires an understanding of visual perception, quality of light, form and modelling, human sensitivity to a wide range of lighting environments, and a balanced approach involving critical reasoning and subjective analysis. This unit will be valuable for those interested in the lighting of architectural forms, objects and environments that demand a high level of aesthetic sensitivity. It will not only draw on learning outcomes from other illumination design units, but also be open to related disciplines with the aim of extending acquired skills beyond the confines of traditional lighting practices. Students will gain a broadened ability to interpret and respond to a wide range of illumination applications.
DESC9153 Graduate Internship

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Dean (Education) Session: Intensive December,Intensive July,Intensive November,Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Fieldwork Assessment: Log book signed by practice supervisor and 2,000 word report on the benefits of the internship (100%); pass/fail only Mode of delivery: Professional practice
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Masters students only. Graduate Diploma students with permission of the Program Coordinator. Advanced Standing will not be granted for this unit of study.
The aims of the internship are to provide a direct link between the academic core of the course and the disciplines and methods of practice; to enable candidates to experience aspects of practice and provide the opportunity for them to work in areas of the field outside their specific expertise; to enable candidates to observe, analyse and comment on the interaction between theoretical and practical issues of their Program as it is practiced, and to establish connections between practice and the development of relevant research programs. The internship is intended to provide the opportunity for students to work in various situations in their Program's area. A secondary intention is that students use the opportunities of placement to broaden their own experience beyond the limitations of their chosen discipline. Candidates must find a suitable professional placement. Permission to enrol is given after the proposed placement has been approved by the Program Director. The host organisation will nominate a supervisor for the student for the internship. The student must complete at least 120 hours of full or part-time experience, supervised by a practicing designer (or other professional depending upon the field). A log-book of each day's work, signed by the supervisor must be submitted on completion. A 2,000-word report on the benefits of the internship must also be produced. At the end of the internship the student will: demonstrate that they have completed a program of work (through a log-book); present a report; analyse their experiences and compare these to the theoretical content of the units they have completed, and suggest appropriate research directions so as to improve the complementarity of theory to practice.