Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit will introduce students to the underlying principles of computer graphics in games. Relevant mathematics will be covered, with focus on vectors and matrices. This theory will be placed into the games context and put into practice in a game engine environment. This will provide a foundation for the manipulation of graphics and content in future games programming classes and development.

Objectives

At the completion of this unit students will be able to:

• understand the need for mathematical foundations in the manipulation of computer graphics and game objects;
• understand coordinate spaces within computer game worlds;
• demonstrate an understanding of vectors and their relevant operations;
• demonstrate an understanding of matrices and their relevant operations and transforms;
• demonstrate an understanding of how vectors and matrices are used for orientation and angular displacement in 3D spaces;
• demonstrate an understanding of how these mathematical principles are used in object movement and collision detection;
• demonstrate the ability to implement these principles practically in game programming.

Assessment

Examination (3 hours): 60%; In-semester assessment: 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Matthew Butler

Contact hours

2hrs lectures/wk, 2 hrs tutorials/wk