Game based learning link recognised in awards

Monday, 02 November 2009
Industry News

Norwich University College of the Arts and Real Projects have been named as runners-up for Best Industry/Education Link at the 2009 EDP Business Awards, for its innovative partnership between NUCA and Norwich-based Real Projects.

NUCA and Real Projects have developed a unique enterprise programme bringing together digital games art and design and e-learning. Students are provided with the opportunity to develop their skills in a commercial environment while Real Projects can provide insights into how these can be utilised and applied.

The Games and Art and Design FdA/BA (Hons) at NUCA has developed an innovative curriculum that enables students to think progressively about the possibilities of digital games beyond the confines of mainstream entertainment. Real Projects is a creative e-learning business that is increasingly developing learning games for leading public and private organisations. Game based learning has the possibility to both educate and inspire through innovation.

Developed by Marie-Claire Isaaman and Rod Green from NUCA and Scott Hewitt from Real Projects, the work placement programme has been designed for students to experience the whole work/life cycle, from submitting and application, creating a portfolio, preparing for interviews through to working as part of a creative team on a commercial project. The students can gain valuable industry knowledge and insight which each candidate receiving personal feedback, support and advice throughout.


Marie-Claire Isaaman, course leader at NUCA, said, “It’s great to receive acknowledgement of this unique and innovative programme, which not only benefits our students, but also recognises and develops fresh talent in a fast-paced changing industry. The future is really about businesses working closely with academics to prepare them for the transition between education and the work-place, especially in this tough environment where there’s more competition for less jobs”.


Scott Hewitt, Real Projects commented, “Being nominated for the award, recognises that the programme is at the forefront of the changing face of the link between education and business. Digital games have not traditionally been associated with education but this is changing. The recent acceleration of games imbedded into e-learning programmes has shown how students can make a real impact and we’ve been able to show them how the e-learning industry is now embracing game based learning”.

Due to its success, the programme will be extended to incorporate a series of supporting lectures and workshops for the 2009/2010 academic year.