The Game Design program began in 2012.  We began teaching Game Design Principles using Gamestarmechanic, an online, very simple application.  Then we completed the HTML, CSS, and Javascript classes on CodeAcademy.  With Game Design principles and some understanding of coding constructs, we started GameSalad. 

With the help of a grant from the Wimberley Education Foundation, Wimberley High School was able to purchase 5 academic licenses. Students were assigned to build games that educated elementary students based on the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills requirements.  We were able to get the grant based on the proposal that high school students could develop iPad games for the Elementary students to support our future rollout of iPads in the schools in 2014.

Students created simple 2D games using backgrounds, avatars, NPCs, and enemies they created in Photoshop.  Most students primarily used the drag and drop functionality with little modification of constraints and parameters.  But some students worked with randomness, looping, and control to create some unique products.  The experience was so awesome for my students. 

All students play games but few realized the effort behind creating them.  We went from a full year of Java and small classes to tremendously increasing the enrollment and allowing students to create as they learn.

We have purchased enough GameSalad licenses to support the classroom for 3 years.  Last year’s students continue to work in GameSalad for 2D projects. The program is growing and my students are engaging.  Amazing!

Author: Denise Jackson – CTE Teacher/Technology Applications
at Wimberly High School – Wimberley, Texas