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How Technology In The Classroom Can Impact Student Learning -Chris F.

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How Technology In The Classroom Can Impact Student Learning -Chris F.

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This article is very informative because it covers the advantages and disadvantages of technology in the clasroom.

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How Technology In The Classroom Can Impact Student Learning

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Technology in the classroom empowers educators to create engaging learning experiences in and out of class. Learn more!

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Anime is widely known for it's uniqueness compared to other forms of animation. Because of this Anime has a lot of influence. This article talks about Anime's influence over people and why it so appealing to them. An open question about Anime is how will it change over the year? In the future, do you think Anime will be overshadowed by some other form of animation?

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Japan is one of the most prosperous countries in the world, known for its unique culture which has far-reaching influence even outside the country itself. An aspect of this culture is Japanese anime which is basically the style of animation in Japan. Over the years, we have seen plenty of Japanese animated television series and films, each bearing its own signature drawing style even with the common features of large eyes, small nose and mouth, as well as unusual hair and skin coloring.

Anime includes many different genres. Its storylines are usually based on its comic book counterpart called manga, which usually features a hero or a heroine along with the friends, mentors, or acquaintances who play a part in their story.

Because of the uniqueness of anime, its difference compared to other forms of animation in the world is very distinguished. It is for this reason that anime became influential not only in Japan, but also in other parts of the world. To name a few, this is evidenced by the airing of anime in local channels in some countries, having the option of watching anime online, and the existence of anime conventions as well as different kinds of merchandise based on an anime franchise.

With such evidence, however, what can we consider as anime's greatest contribution to the world?
Anime and the human psyche
If one thinks about it, anime's greatest influence in the world is its effect on human psychology.

For one, anime can influence a person's attitudes and behavior by allowing them to adopt and emulate the characters' own attitudes and behaviors even though this only manifests in a fictional situation. However, such influence can go both ways. Because anime contains different forms of violence-for example, those of the verbal or physical kind-this may normalize such type of behavior to the point that viewers, especially impressionable children and teens, would adopt the said behavior in real life. This may stunt their adjustment to society where such behavior is not accepted or approved.

In addition, anime viewing itself may prove to be addictive and thus stunting, especially if not done in moderation. Hence, as much as watching anime is marketed as a good pastime, it must also be controlled because of its negative physical and psychological effects. Such is especially true for children or teens who need to be guided particularly when the show features the aforementioned violence.

On the other hand, anime may also have a positive influence on viewers. Since it usually showcases motifs such as friendship or familial bonds or character traits such as open-mindedness, respectfulness, diligence, and the like, people can then adopt socially-accepted and moral behaviors which can help them as persons. Because some anime series or films also feature storylines and settings that resonate with the audience due to similarities with their personal experiences, it may help them cope or handle issues and build character.

Watching anime may also be a means of stress relief or catharsis, which may then improve one's wellbeing. Furthermore, since anime also contains themes of how the hero or heroine of the story overcomes obstacles, it may serve as an encouraging and empowering mediums for viewers who are struggling with life problems, whether they may be heavy for the person or not.
Conclusion
To conclude, the greatest contribution of anime to the world may be its influence on the human psyche. While such influence may be purely positive, purely negative, or both, we cannot deny that it has become such a huge part of the world today. We only have the Japanese to thank for letting us experience this part of their culture.
Photo Attribution:
Featured and 1 st image from https://www.videoder.net/blog/best-anime-websites/

2 nd image from https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/childhood-adhd/ss/slideshow-adhd-in-children

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Japan is one of the most prosperous countries in the world, known for its unique culture which has far-reaching influence even outside the country itself. An aspect of this culture is Japanese anime which is basically the style of animation in Japan.

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The article talks about the influence and impact received by things like computer science and how art and design actually helped computer science

Question for you to think about is:
What if art wasn't realevent?

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Computer science has drawn from and contributed to many disciplines and practices since it emerged as a field in the middle of the 20th century. Those interactions, in turn, have contributed to the evolution of information technology - new forms of computing and communications, and new applications - that continue to develop from the creative interactions between computer science and other fields.

Beyond Productivity argues that, at the beginning of the 21st century, information technology (IT) is forming a powerful alliance with creative practices in the arts and design to establish the exciting new, domain of information technology and creative practices-ITCP. There are major benefits to be gained from encouraging, supporting, and strategically investing in this domain.

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Read "Beyond Productivity: Information Technology, Innovation, and Creativity" at NAP.edu

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Computer science has drawn from and contributed to many disciplines and practices since it emerged as a field in the middle of the 20th century. Those interactions, in turn, have contributed to the evolution of information technology - new forms of computing and communications, and new applications - that continue to develop from the creative interactions between computer science and other fields.

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https://www.allisonacademy.com/students/education/technology-in-education/how-does-technology-impact-student-learning/

This article shows the benefits of how technology can boost the learning experience of students and how it can help students get more information.

It also talks about how it makes information easily accessible for students which can help or hurt students.

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How technology impacts student learning is still the topic of numerous studies and debates, but one thing is certain - if technology is applied correctly, it can be an exceptional ally in education.

How does technology help students learn

One of the biggest challenges in education is taking care of each student in the classroom. It is not an easy task, especially in classes with a large number of students where each of them has their own unique talents, and needs. With education technology, students can access online information more easily, while learning itself is more reliant on multimedia than ever before. Indeed, there are many ways technology can help students have a great learning experience.

Improved availability of information

Technology impact is perhaps best visible in the learning process. Not only is it easier to find any information online, but the information now comes in different formats. It is no longer necessary to go to the library and spend hours there searching for the desired information. Now all this information is largely digitized and available online which greatly facilitates the learning process, writing professional papers, and acquiring new knowledge in general.

In addition to e-books and websites, podcasts, photo archives, infographics, videos, and even video games can be very useful. All these educational formats are available online, but also in traditional classrooms thanks to teachers who use technology to considerably improve their lectures.

It is now possible to give an illustrative and specific answer to every question, which facilitates learning for all students. In turn, students spend less time searching for information, and more time studying it which increases student activity in class, and positively impacts learning and test scores.

Immersive learning experience

The major advantage of technology and availability of digital materials is an improved learning process. Modern generations of students are more familiar with multimedia content than with information from books. Most children respond well to material presented in a modern, and interactive way, which results in a more comprehensive learning with less difficulty.

Immersive experience can be achieved in different ways, depending on how we use modern learning resources:

Virtual reality (VR) - one of the latest technological achievements in the field of immersiveness is the VR headset. Thanks to its advanced software, it allows virtual walks through distant landscapes, visiting museums, space travel, etc. Authenticity and realism are achieved thanks to the VR device that captures head and hand movements, creating an impression that the user is surrounded by interactive virtual space. Students are familiar with this learning method, because this technology has long been used in the entertainment industry (primarily video games).

Augmented reality (AR) - although combining reality and digital content may sound far-fetched, it is not only possible, but a great teaching aid as well. Best of all, this advanced education method does not require expensive tech devices, but only a mobile phone and the appropriate app. This method is based on the software that displays the environment in real time with added interactive virtual content on the screen, using the phone camera to achieve that. Additional gadgets, such as AR headsets, are being developed in order to provide an even higher level of interactivity.

Computer simulation - is a process where artificial intelligence performs certain actions in line with the input. In some cases, it involves graphical simulations, such as those used in pilot training. However, schools use programs that present learning outcomes in the form of numbers, or simple animations more often. Based on these data, students can more easily understand how something works, but also where exactly they made a mistake, and why.

Gamification of learning - video games design and techniques are used to familiarize children with learning and critical thinking. The idea is to have children cover and interpret the teaching material as if they were completing levels in a video game, and compete with their classmates so as to improve student engagement. This method of learning through play has become extremely popular, so teachers can choose between different tools and video games that facilitate learning. And while students "play", teachers monitor their progress using advanced parameters, which allow them to react and offer additional challenges or rewards.

Personalized learning

Without technological innovation, teachers could hardly dedicate themselves to each student equally, and adapt the material to their individual needs, skills, and interests. Not every student learns at the same pace. Some excel at STEM courses, while others have more success with History, English, or Geography. Personalized learning apps help teachers design personalized learning programs for each student more easily, as well as to monitor their progress.

The applications may differ, but the general approach is very similar. Student performance is analyzed based on test scores and various statistical parameters, and the way in which the material is covered is modified accordingly. Although the methods are determined by the teacher, certain options are automated, i.e. they are executed based on given instructions. This allows for a more personalized approach to learning, so the student will spend more time studying an area they struggle with, and less time studying another area they have mastered without difficulty.

Improved teamwork

Same as in all other areas of life, technology has improved communication between people, and consequently, online learning. It has improved cooperation among students, especially when they are not in the same location, but have to work on joint projects. Technology used in education does not only involve communication apps (Zoom, Skype), but various software for sharing documents, audio and video material (Google Docs, Office365, ePals, Popplet...) as well.

Online education and cooperation among students drastically improved during COVID-19 lockdowns, when it was necessary to come up with more effective ways of distance learning. Of course, whether it is used in distance learning or in a physical classroom, the ultimate goal is the same - to encourage students to collaborate, engage in teamwork on a project, and joint learning to achieve the desired goal.

Technology as an integral part of the learning process

Acquiring 21st-century skills demands technology-based new concepts, so that every student would have an equal chance of fulfilling their ambitions. Technology in education positively affects students who respond much better to tablets, computers and phones, than to print textbooks. Interaction is the key, and it is achieved by making use of all the benefits of modern devices and interactive classrooms.

Although technology in the classroom has forever changed education, books will always be important, and so will teachers. Educational technology is constantly evolving, and school is modernizing, but the goal remains unchanged - transferring knowledge to students and helping them to achieve success in the real world.

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How does technology impact student learning| Allison Academy

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How technology impacts student learning is still the topic of numerous studies and debates, but one thing is certain - if technology is applied correctly, it can be an exceptional ally in education. One of the biggest challenges in education is taking care of each student in the classroom.

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This article provides essential information on the positive and negative effects on the music industry because of the advancement in technology.

An open question I would ask that relates to this article is:

Where would the music industry be if we didn't have such technological advancements?

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The Impact of Technology on the Music Industry

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For the music professional, the ins and outs of modern music business and music technologies is must-have knowledge. Southern

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Ask an Expert: How Computer science Has Impacted Games

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This article is very informational to those who are interested in how CS has evolved gaming. The article shows the connections and aspects of gaming that increase in quality due to CS improving.

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When you have a question, it's always best to turn to a subject matter expert for answers. In our blog series, Ask An Expert, National University staff and faculty members take turns answering challenging questions in their areas of expertise. This time we speak to computer science professor, Subra Subramanya, about how computer science has impacted games over the years.
Gaming has come a long way since players plopped a coin in a pinball machine.

As computer science has evolved, so have many industries rooted in computing technology, including the video game industry - or simply "gaming" as it's often called today. But at its center are some of the same concepts computer science students have been learning for decades.

"Programming is an essential foundation for game design," says National University computer science professor Dr. S.R. Subramanya. "It's well-grounded in languages like Java and C++."

Let's take a look examples of how computer science has impacted games as well as explore how to study computer science, a degree which can prepare you for a career in the gaming industry.

Enhanced Graphics

Wait. Are those real-life actors? With all of the advancement in game design, sometimes it's surprisingly hard to tell the difference between computer-generated characters and an actual human. The evolution of television technology has also impacted the look and feel of games. According to GameDesigning.org, original gaming systems "weren't designed to support high-definition picture modes." So, aside from graphics looking more realistic, this upgrade in visuals was also practical. Televisions were becoming more powerful, so the game design had to keep up.

Multiplayer Games

You could say multiplayer games have been around for some time. For instance, friends could take turns on the arcade version of PacMan; when one player "dies" the next person is up, and so on. Later, two or more players could compete in console-based games, such as racing or wrestling, by playing against each other in real time. Around the turn of the century, thanks to the internet, the concept of multiplayer games allowed for people around the world to compete (or collaborate) in the same game, while also communicating with the other players.

Cloud-based Gaming

In years past, when you wanted to play a game, you essentially had one device on which to run the program. Perhaps your Nintendo console and your living room television, or maybe running a game like The Sims on your home desktop.

Cloud-based gaming allows players to pick up their game from various devices, from mobile to TV to computer. Gartner Research vice president Brian Blau told Yahoo! Finance in 2018 that, "there's a big push in the game industry to play games in lots and lots of different ways."

Augmented Reality: Living in the Game

How computer science has impacted games also involves augmented reality (AR). Virtual reality (VR) is the predecessor to augmented reality, but the difference is that VR takes the user somewhere else, while AR works in existing surroundings as if it were overlaying a "skin" onto the real world. The Pokemon Go craze a few years ago is an example of AR technology. In this game, players could find and capture Pokemon characters in actual locations. The technology essentially adds a "skin" to the real world.

Gamification in Education

An early example of gamification - before it was called that - is Girl Scout badges. You learn something or do a task, and then you earn something: in this case a patch to sew on your sash. This concept is found in many applications today from health and wellness programs to getting points for "checking in" to places through apps like Swarm.

Subramanya says this has also been working its way into education at all levels. "There are certainly a lot of opportunities for gaming," explained Subramanya. "My take is that I'd like to see people use those skills in developing educational software."

He adds that incorporating gaming into instructional design, especially in online degree programs, can keep students engaged and immersed.

Join the Gaming Industry: How to Study Computer Science

With the growth of and advances in games, there are more opportunities for computer science graduates in the gaming industry. As Subramanya says, programming skills and a mathematical foundation are essential to a career in game development and design. But when considering how computer science has impacted games, Subramanya explains knowledge and skills beyond programming, such as "computer graphics and the user-interface design," are helpful.

Bachelor and master's degree programs, such as the Master of Science in Computer Science at National University, can give students that foundation. In fact, online degrees in these areas may be of special interest to those in the gaming community!

There are many other examples of how computer science has impacted gaming over the years, including portable games, social gaming, open-world game design, voice commands, and motion. If being part of this industry's exciting future interests you, visit our program page to learn more.
Dr. S.R. Subramanya is a professor in the School of Engineering and Computing at National University in San Diego, California. He is also the president and CEO of Exskillence, a company specializing in technical skills enhancement workshops for students, as well as for corporate employees. He has also worked at several multinational corporations - ASEA AB in Vasteros, Sweden; NOKIA in Helsinki, Finland; and LG Electronics in San Diego, California. His current research interests are in algorithm design, novel services for digital content, mobile applications, and computer science education.

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Computer Science's Impact on Video Games | NU.edu

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When you have a question, it's always best to turn to a subject matter expert for answers. In our blog series, Ask An Expert, National University staff and faculty members take turns answering challenging questions in their areas of expertise. This time we speak to computer science professor, Subra Subramanya, about how computer science has impacted games over the years.

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The article talks about how computer science has impacted art and dance. If you really like to dance or make art this article is perfect for you! How do you think science can effect our future?

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How Art and Dance Are Making Computer Science Culturally Relevant - EdSurge News

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This fall, my computer science class will follow the new AP Computer Science curriculum framework while also including culturally responsive ...

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If you are wondering how computer science has impacted entertainment such as Music, art, games, Etc. Well you are in luck with this article.

A question for you to wonder is?

How has computer science impacted entertainment:

Simple answer short, it has made most entertainment more pleasing to the eyes, and makes it more entertaining for us.

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How Is Computer Science Used In Entertainment? – TheSassWay.com

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A large number of Big Budget movies use computers to create special effects. In addition, they are extensively used during the production process to edit film. A scanner is generally used to create complex twisting motions by scanning.

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Abraham Rodriguez-How are video games made?

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Abraham Rodriguez-How are video games made?

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Video games, how are they made? if you or anyone is interested in learning a bit more about how video games are made then this article is just for you!
This Article gives a bit of information that may give a better insight on video games how exactly they work and are made!

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After a long day of school and an after-school club, you finally get home. You tackle your homework while you gobble down a healthy dinner. When you finally have some free time to , you grab a controller and get ready to go for a virtual drive or defend a planet from an invasion.

Playing video games is a popular for kids of all ages. For most kids, the video game journey begins at the video game store and ends at the . But have you ever given any thought to all the work that goes into creating the video games you love?

Some people see video games as simple electronic toys that do not take long to produce. In reality, though, the most popular modern video games are productions that the biggest summer blockbusters created by Hollywood movie studios. Video games can take a year or longer to be made!

Video games might have started out as chasing around a moving dot across a black screen, but today's modern games are interactive marvels that resemble movies and allow for game play across a wide variety of settings.

Every modern video game begins with a story. Whether it's a simulation of a historical or role-playing in a future fantasy world, the story drives the action of the video game and creates a strong between the player and the characters in the game.

Writers, artists, designers, and programmers must collaborate to create all the parts of the story, including the characters, the settings, the music and other sounds, and the possible paths the story can take. Unlike movies, which contain a single , video games must account for all the potential paths intense gameplay can take.

Today's gamers expect life-like video games with the best graphics possible. Characters are expected to move like real people would and objects are usually expected to loosely follow the laws of physics. Settings must look like the real world...or whatever fake world exists in the video game. The level of detail that artists and designers must achieve is challenging. That's why it could take over a hundred people to develop a single video game!

Once all the elements of the video game have been designed, it's up to computer experts to put it all together to make it work effectively as a video game. All the characters, settings, sounds, and gameplay elements must be programmed to work together seamlessly.

Computer programmers must write millions of lines of computer language instructions - called code - that control all aspects of the game. Code can be written in a variety of different computer languages, such as C++, Python, Visual Basic, and Perl.

If you think about controlling a particular in a game, there's a seemingly endless variety of things you can do with that . Code must be written to account for all the possible choices you can make with your . Each move you make leads to changes in the setting, as well as a whole new set of options for your next move. computer code controls all these factors and makes playing the game a seamless experience for the user.

Once a video game is nearly finished, it enters the testing phase, where players test every element of the game in order to find and fix any errors - called bugs - before the game is released. Upon release, the game is marketed to the general public and you get to enjoy the fruits of the thousands upon thousands of hours that went into making the game!

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We hope all you crafty miners will answer the call of duty and join us for today's Wonder of the Day!

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This article summarizes the idea of how computer science impacted movies. If you are really into film-making and movies, you might find this article really helpful!!!

A question for you to think about would be:

There are already 3-D movies and the quality of the movies this century is so realistic and nice! What else can Computer Science do to evolve the film-making industry???

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Computer science actually impacts movies in several ways. Computers are the backbone of modern film production and therefore knowledge and understanding of computer systems are important to the entire industry. The following are some of the ways computers and computer science are involved in creating films.

Films Are Edited On Computers

Back when movies were filmed on physical film stock, the editing process literally involved cutting the film and stringing it together in the way the director wanted to create a complete film. Now, digital video recording has taken over, with just about every film being edited on a computer. Film editors use professional-grade editing programs such as Vegas Pro, Avid Media Composer, Final Cut Pro, and Adobe Premiere Pro to piece together every scene of a movie into a comprehensive narrative. This is largely because movies are mostly filmed out of sequence for various reasons such as actor and location availability. Computer science professionals are the people who design these editing programs and make them work with the computers that use them.

Films Are Animated On Computers

Animation has been around as long as film has, and just like the film industry as a whole, animation has almost completely transitioned to being done on computers. Most modern films are done in 3D computer-generated animation. The entire process, including storyboarding, modeling, animation, texturing, lighting, and rendering is all done on computers. This makes computers and computer science absolutely integral to the work modern animators do. The few films that are done in a more traditional 2D style are still largely animated on computers, even if some of the process is done by hand. Given how successful animated films are, particularly for children but also for adults, the popularity of 3D computer animation shows no signs of falling out of favor anytime soon.

Special Effects For Films Are Produced On Computers

Even live-action films use animated special effects, such as when depicting an explosion, a ship soaring through space, a superhero leaping off a building, and more. Many live-action films also include computer-generated characters, whom special effects artists have to add in during post-production. These special effects need to not only look real but blend into the scenery and function seamlessly alongside the performances of the live-action actors. Some special effects are still practical, in that they are done in real life by stuntmen or pyrotechnics. However, others are done entirely on computers after the live-action footage has been shot, especially if creating those effects practically would be impossible or highly dangerous. Using computer-generated effects is also now largely cheaper.

Coding Knowledge Aids Troubleshooting

Majors in computer science teach about computers, computer systems, computer code and how it all works together. Computer science professionals work for both the film industry directly and the software manufacturers, who take notes and use feedback to develop better products. When something is going wrong technically with the computers being used for film production, computer science professionals are the people who come in to examine and fix the issue. The New York Times even reported on how the need for computer professionals in Hollywood has created a higher demand for computer science degrees.

Computer science is the backbone of any modern movie. Computer science creates, codes and troubleshoots the machines and programs used to make any movie. The impact of computer science on movies cannot be overstated.
Related Resources:

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How Does Computer Science Impact Movies? - Computer Science Degree Hub

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Computer science actually impacts movies in several ways. Computers are the backbone of modern film production and therefore knowledge and understanding of computer systems are important to the entire industry. The following are some of the ways computers and computer science are involved in creating films. Films Are Edited On Computers Back when movies were [...]

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This article is a perfect fit for people who are interested in music. It givens an insight to how computers provide so many resources and how they have greatly effected Music today.
A question for you:
Do you think because of all the computer resources, music isn't original anymore?

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"As computer science has progressed, the video game industry has implemented various computing technology concepts. Computer science has improved graphics, enhanced multiplayer games, enabled cloud-based and on-demand gaming, and availability of virtual and augmented reality."

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The video game industry is an ever-evolving area, and those interested in the field may ask how does computer science impact games. In today's highly technological world, game developers are constantly looking for new fresh ideas to broaden the range of consumers seeking to purchase and play an array of video games. As computer science has progressed, the video game industry has implemented various computing technology concepts. Computer science has improved graphics, enhanced multiplayer games, enabled cloud-based and on-demand gaming, and availability of virtual and augmented reality.

Improved Graphics

The advancement of technology has enabled game developers to use superior graphics to create a variety of characters. Often times, it is hard to tell the difference between actual human beings and computer-generated characters. Characteristics are looking more realistic and games have much more detail. Facial recognition and 3D scanning also enable players to create custom avatars that closely resemble their actual features. Players can transfer their own expressions to digital characters. The settings in games allow gamers to experience playing in completely rendered worlds with photo-realistic backgrounds. The higher quality of images allows players to feel like they are right inside the game. The advancement of television technology has also affected the view and feel of games. With the release of high definition televisions, the game designs had to follow suit.

Enhanced Multiplayer Games

Multiplayer games have been available for many years, but the incorporation of computer science into gaming boosted the level for various players. With the wide range of devices with access to the internet, including computers, tablets, phones, and watches, individuals can play other people from around the world in the same game. Voice recognition enables players to communicate with each other and games can also recognize voice commands from users. Voice commands can be used to interact on social media and control gameplay.

Cloud-Based and On-Demand Games

Previously, if an individual wanted to play a game he or she had one device to run the program. Today, cloud-based gaming enables gamers to continue their game from multiple devices. A game can be started on one device and continued on another without starting over or a player losing their progress. Cloud gaming lightens the load of gaming without the need for powerful hardware. It decreases the need for a large amount of memory and creates vast server-size limits where images are streamed through the internet. The Los Angeles Times shares how On-demand gaming enables players to stream video games through a variety of devices and services.

Virtual and Augmented Reality

The newest development in gaming is alternative reality, a concept that enables players to feel like they are actually inside the game. Virtual reality involves taking the player somewhere else and augmented reality involves using the current surroundings as if placing a "skin" over the real world. Virtual reality headset displays are available to immerse gamers into the game setting. Augmented reality games maneuver spaces within actual settings and make the object of the game feel real in the gamer's current environment.

With consistent advancements and growth in the gaming industry, there are increased opportunities for graduates of computer science degrees in the gaming field. Those seeking a career in the field now have a basic understanding of how does computer science impacts games.

Related resource: Top 50 Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs

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How Does Computer Science Impact Games? - Computer Science Degree Hub

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The video game industry is an ever-evolving area, and those interested in the field may ask how does computer science impact games. In today's highly technological world, game developers are constantly looking for new fresh ideas to broaden the range of consumers seeking to purchase and play an array of video games.

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https://www.cgspectrum.com/blog/game-development-process

This article gives insight into the development of a video game and the stages a game must go through in order to be released to the public.

A question for you to think about:

Do you think the process of making a game can be shorter? If no, how do you think making it shorter would effect the game?

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Want to know how video games are made? This article walks through the video game development process, and in particular, the 'pipeline' - an industry term that refers to the process of making a video game from scratch.

Grand Theft Auto V reportedly cost $137M to make and $128M to market (source: The Gamer)

What is the Game Development pipeline?

The game development pipeline is the process of building a video game from concept to completion.

Much like a production line, the pipeline helps organize the flow of work so that everyone knows what they need to deliver and when. It also helps to manage the game development timeline and budget, reducing inefficiencies and bottlenecks.

While pipelines vary between projects and studios, the process is fairly similar whether you're working on a AAA, indie or mobile game.

A game is continuously evolving, and things which sounded great in theory may not work so well in reality. Therefore, the pipeline is not necessarily a linear process. Work must be sent for creative approvals and can often be sent back for revisions. Pipelines must be flexible enough to factor revisions and course changes.

The 3 Stages of Game Development

Video game development is typically divided into 3 stages: pre-production, production and post-production.

1. Pre-Production

This is where every project begins. Essentially, pre-production defines what the game is about, why it should be made, and what it's going to take to make it.

You might have a great idea for a type of game, a story you want to bring to life, or you may want to build one that leverages a certain type of technology (e.g. VR, a new controller, or console).

In pre-production, you'll find answers to questions like:

What is the game about?

Who is the audience?

Is there a market for it? What's the competition like?

Which platform will it be published on?

How will it be monetized? Will it be sold on a platform, or free to play with in-game purchases?

How long will it take to develop?

What staff and resources will it require?

What is the estimated budget?

This stage can last anywhere between a week to a year, depending on the project type, resources and finances available, and typically takes up to 20% of the total production time.

At this point, the team is quite small. There may be a producer, programmer/s, a concept artist (or if you're a one-person operation, you'll be doing most of it!).

A Video Game Producer handles the business aspect of the project, particularly the financials. They manage the budget and develop marketing strategies to sell the product.

A Concept Artist sets the tone for the project early on by developing artwork and sketches. These early visuals help form the language of the game, giving everyone working on the project a visual guide to the overall look and feel.

Concept Art from Starcraft 2: Wings of Liberty, by CG Spectrum mentor Brian Huang, Blizzard Entertainment. More reading: Interview with Brian and What is Concept Artist?

The information gathered during this stage of pre-production forms the basis of the Game Design Document.

The Game Design Document (GDD)

A Game Design Document (GDD) is essentially the game's north star. It's a living document which helps everyone understand and get on board with the greater vision of the project.

The GDD includes things like:

The idea or concept

Genre

Story and characters

Core game mechanics

Gameplay

Level and world design

Art and/or sketches

Monetization strategy

As a living document, the GDD is continuously updated and refined throughout production. This could be due to technical or financial restraints, or simply realizing that things just don't look, play or work as well as you had initially hoped.

Many people, especially smaller developers, like to use more agile development techniques which are less about process and documentation and more about just building things.

However, EA, Microsoft, Sony, Ubisoft and other large gaming companies are highly process-driven and require heavy documentation. It is a big part of how they have achieved success over and over again.

A GDD keeps you organized, helps identify potential risks, and lets you see ahead of time who you may need to hire/outsource to in order to bring your project to life. Your game idea may seem fairly straightforward, but once you lay it out in a GDD, you might soon realize just how big and resource-heavy your project is.

Projects without a plan are much more likely to run over time and budget.

Another reason to have a GDD is to help pitch and finance your game. Potential investors will want to see a solid plan before investing.

Finally, the GDD will help you market your product once it's ready to be released.

Prototyping

A video game prototype is a raw test that checks functionality, user experience, gameplay, mechanics, and art direction.

Prototyping happens in pre-production to test whether or not the game idea will work, and if it is worthwhile to pursue. Many ideas do not make it past this stage.

The team will often start with paper designs to test theories and work out many of the nuances of a game or a series of systems quickly, easily and cost effectively.

But while concepts, ideas, psychology, theories and other deep thinking metaphors are important, you can only design so far in your head or on paper.

Most game ideas need to be touched, felt, played and tested sooner rather than later.

The aim is to get a prototype up and running ASAP to test if your ideas actually work and if the game is as fun as you had hoped. Prototyping can also reveal unexpected challenges, which could potentially change the entire course of your project. It's important to have others test your prototype too, because things that are obvious to you, may not be to others.

Placeholder assets are used to save time and money. These low-quality assets stand in for things like weapons and props during the early testing phase, and if approved, they're replaced with final, high quality versions later on.

Placeholder assets can be purchased or found for free online within game development software. They're generally pretty basic shapes, but can also be a little more advanced, for example, this Soul: Cave asset pack by Epic Games for Unreal Engine 4:

Soul: Cave placeholder asset pack by Epic Games for UE4

2. Production

Production is the longest stage of the pipeline, and it's all hands on deck.

Ranging anywhere from 1 to 4 years, production is where the game really starts to take shape. The story is refined, assets (characters, creatures, props and environments) are created, the rules of play are set, levels and worlds are built, code is written, and so much more!

Almost everything in a video game is a conscious decision. This includes every character, environment, object, as well as the look, colors, sounds, level of difficulty, rules and point-scoring system. However initial ideas don't always translate so well in reality, so as the work is being done, the game is being continuously tested and refined.

Let's take a look at the major game production milestones, and some of the key video game development jobs, keeping in mind that smaller teams will be required to undertake multiple roles, whereas a larger studio will have more staff, many of whom specialize in a particular aspect of production.

With players expecting movie-quality graphics, an enormous 75-90% of the game budget goes to artwork, according to industry veteran Troy Dunniway, who helped create CG Spectrum's Game Design Diploma (image: Assassin's Creed Odyssey, Ubisoft)

Production Milestones

There are a number of milestones to hit throughout the game development process.

Prototype: This is the initial test of the game (which happens in pre-production and is described in detail above). Some games may never make it past this stage.

First Playable: The first playable gives a much better idea of the look and gameplay. While it is still far from final, placeholders are replaced with higher quality assets and artwork is added.

Vertical Slice: A vertical slice is a fully playable sample that can be used to pitch your game to studios or investors. Ranging from just a few minutes up to half an hour, a vertical slice provides a first-hand experience of your game.

Pre-Alpha: The majority of the content is developed in the pre-alpha stage. At this point of game development, some big decisions will need to be made. Content may get cut, or new elements will need to be added to improve gameplay.

Alpha: The game is "feature complete" meaning the main features have all been added and the game is fully playable from start to finish. Some elements, such as art assets may still need to be added, but controls and functionality should be working properly. The QA testers will be making sure everything is running seamlessly and reporting errors back to the team.

Beta: At this point, all the content and assets are integrated, and the team should be focused on optimization rather than adding new functions or features.

Gold Master: The game is final and ready to be sent to the publishing outlet and released to the public.

One of the best-selling games of all time, Minecraft has over 100 million monthly active players (2019)

Key Game Development Roles

Project Manager

The Project Manager makes sure the game development process runs smoothly, milestones are met, risks are anticipated/mitigated, and team members are doing what they're supposed to. They are often the centre of communication between the dev and design teams and executives. Project Managers are exceptionally organized and must have excellent communication and people skills.

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Game Developers / Programmers

Game Programmers help develop games by turning design concepts into code to create fully playable games. (Read more: How to Become a Game Programmer or the difference between game programming and game development)

Programmers are often software engineers or computer scientists with a strong programming background, plus a combination of creativity, math skills and patience to successfully code ideas into interactive visuals and sounds. They ensure the game runs smoothly.

There are many different aspects of programming, some of which include:

Building a customized base engine for the game

Scripting functions, events, interactions

Creating physics (e.g. gravity differences in a game set in space)

Developing and modifying 3D graphic renders

Simulating artificial intelligence in opponents

Adding sound effects, music and voice-overs

Implementing game logic and mechanics

Creating the User Interface

Writing code specific to keyboard, mice, or joysticks

Making it possible for players to compete or cooperate via LAN or the internet

Developing custom tools

Porting code between platforms

Implementing algorithms, addressing memory requirements and caching issues

Identifying and fixing bugs

In larger studios, you will find specialists dedicated just to AI programming for the game, or employees who only work on the User Interface. (Read interview with Ubisoft AI Game Programmer & CG Spectrum Mentor Firas Hosn)

The average Programmer makes USD $59,010 per year, however a Senior or Lead Programmer can earn in excess of USD $100,000 per year. A game programming course can equip you with the skills needed to get your first game programming job in the industry.

Game Designers

A Game Designer is the creative driver of the game, and generally a cross between a writer and an artist, with some knowledge of programming. The game design production pipeline section involves creating compelling stories, characters, goals, rules and challenges that drive interactions with other characters, users or objects. (Learn the difference between Game Design and Programming here.)

They may be responsible for:

Developing the storyline, character back-stories and dialogue

Developing gameplay, rules and the scoring system

Determining the level of difficulty

Building environments, ledges, obstacles and objects

Level and world design

Programming/scripting

Digital editing

If working for a larger company, these tasks could resemble individual roles, which we'll cover next.

According to Payscale, the average Game Designer salary is USD $63,838, while a Lead can make in excess of USD $93,926 (depending on experience, location, size of studio and industry). Senior and Technical Designers may exceed this range. Check out the Game Design Diploma to get an idea of the skills needed for a job in game design. (More reading: What is Game Design?)

Level Designers

A Video Game Level Designer is responsible for creating interesting and fun levels. Their job is to keep the player focused on moving through the game and achieving their goal or mission while reducing the potential of confusion.

Because games are far more complex than they used to be, it's common at larger studios to find Game Designers dedicated just to level design.

Level Designers take inspiration from the concept art, photo reference, and GDD to sketch believable maps and create physical models of levels.

Depending on the type of game and whether it is based on actual events (such as a WW2 battle), they may need to learn all about a particular period of history and research actual locations to ensure the level is realistic and believable. If the game is adapted from a book or movie, they'll need to read/watch the original and look for clues. If the world is entirely fictional, they'll need to use their creativity and draw inspiration from the concept art provided.

Then using a level editor (software used to design levels and maps), they build the levels, stages or missions. Their job can also include things like planning start and exit locations, determining where tunnels and hidden passageways will be, places where interactions or dialogue will take place, monster spawn points, trigger points where certain actions will take place, and much more.

Level Designers are responsible for identifying and fixing bugs, such as players falling out of bounds or getting stuck and not being able to get out. The challenge with video games is that once the game is released, it is out of the Designer's hands. The player can interact with the worlds in unexpected ways, bringing to light bugs which had gone unnoticed during development.

The level will likely see several versions before becoming final.

A Level Designer can earn on average USD $56,884 depending on studio and location. Senior or more experienced Designers can demand a much higher salary.

If you're interested in becoming a Level Designer, the Game Design Diploma teaches the process of turning concepts into prototypes, how to make a level fun, incorporate storytelling, ensure your level is visually interesting, and then build and script your level in a game engine.

Watch video with Level Designers at Ubisoft

Game Artists

Game Artists can include Concept Artists, Animators, 3D Modelers and FX Artists.

This group is responsible for bringing color, movement and life to the game.

While a Concept Artist is mostly active during pre-production when they're designing the initial look (typically in 2D), they may be brought in again later in the game development process if new elements are added or the game changes course.

A 3D Concept Artist (which could be the same artist) uses digital sculpting software like ZBrush, Maya and Photoshop to create 3D props, assets and environments. They'll also add textures and details.

Concept Art by Mentor of 3D Concept Art, Krzysztof Luzny ( read interview with Krzysztof)

3D Modelers

3D Modelers create models of people, objects, props, weapons and environments which can then be textured and animated as needed. Modelers need to know how to gather and use high quality reference materials, especially if they're replicating real objects (e.g. an AK-47, Buzzard Attack Chopper, the Eiffel Tower etc). Modelers may use photos of the objects they're creating, or drones if the object is much larger and they need an aerial view. If the game is all fantasy, they'll need to reference the concept art and use their imagination to come up with something new and unique. (More reading: What is 3D Modeling?)

3d model by Victoria Passariello (see more 3D models and read interview with Victoria)

Game Animators

Game Animators add depth and realism by adding believable movement to characters, objects and environments. They'll create storyboards and map out key animation scenes that align with the game's storyline. Animators often need to conduct lots of research (e.g. observing how animals behave and interact with others if working on an animal-based game). Motion capture data can also be used to help create more lifelike animations.

Alumnus Kyle Dahl's Animation Reel (read interview with Kyle)

FX Artists

FX Artists give players a more immersive and entertaining experience by adding stunning effects such as explosions, smoke, fire and liquid simulations, and weather events such as rain, lightning, blizzards etc. Game FX Artists tend to use software such as Houdini FX or Maya, but should also have experience game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine 4.

Cinematic VFX Reel from Star Wars Battlefront 2 by CG Spectrum mentor Gregory Hird-Rutter

Audio Engineers / Sound Designers / Composers

The sound experts develop realistic sound effects, record voice-overs/dialogue between characters, and create soundtracks that set the mood for players, adding suspense or audio cues (e.g. opening music, menu pause music, marking a victory etc).

QA (Quality Assurance) / Video Game Testers

Video Game Testers are essential in the game development process! These people test games, look for bugs and ensure the game runs smoothly and instructions are clear for players. They report errors to the dev team in what's sometimes known as a bug sheet.

Additional Roles

Besides the game development roles mentioned above, larger studios may have the capacity to bring on a number of additional specialists, such as:

Quest Designers

Combat Designers

Writers

Interpreters and translators

Later in the game development process, the product team plays more of a role, helping to handle the marketing and distribution of the game.

3. Post-production

Once production is complete and the game has shipped, the game development process continues with some team members being relegated to maintenance (fixing bugs, creating patches) or creating bonus or downloadable content (DLC). Others may move onto the sequel or the next project.

A post-mortem or debrief may be held to discuss what worked/didn't work and determine what could be done better next time. All the design documents, assets and code are finalized, gathered and stored, in case they are needed in the future.

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If you want to make video games, understanding the game development process is essential. Regardless of where your role sits within the pipeline, knowing every department's purpose and order will help you work more efficiently and reduce costly problems down the track.

You don't need to know how to do everyone's job, but you will need to know how your work affects theirs and how to handover usable work to the next stage of production. An understanding of the process will also make you more employable, as every major studio uses a video game production schedule.

Additional Game Development Resources:

Header image: Mortal Kombat 11 © 2019 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Developed by NetherRealm Studios

Is Your Call of Duty to Make Video Games?

CG Spectrum is a game development school offering specialized Game Art, Design, Programming and Game Development courses for beginner and advanced students.

Be mentored by industry experts who have worked for Ubisoft, Microsoft, EA and other major game studios and learn the game development process step by step, graduating with a portfolio of original work!

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How Video Games Are Made | The Game Development Process | CG Spectrum

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Want to know how video games are made? This article walks through the video game development process, and in particular, the 'pipeline' - an industry term that refers to the process of making a video game from scratch. Grand Theft Auto V reportedly cost $137M to make and $128M to market (source: The Gamer) What is the Game Development pipeline?

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https://thejournal.com/articles/2015/02/18/beyond-programming-the-power-of-making-games.aspx
35% of developers mention that creativity was key point of their process.

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Gaming

Beyond Programming: The Power of Making Games

"I gained a lot of skills! These skills include more computer skills which I did not have before, along with a different outlook on life. I began to see all of the opportunities in everyday life for different games and ideas. I gained a new perspective on an old picture." - 8th grade student

"Creating something out of nothing. It's the closest thing to magic I can think of." - Game developer

A Broader Perspective for Learning
Art and creative expression have an interesting way of weaving in and out of classrooms, offering students the opportunity to explore their own ideas and minds. Video games are no different, and while most of the discussion about their use in classrooms centers on play, we at foundry10 wanted to examine the value of making games. Through easily accessible programs such as Scratch and Gamemaker, students from early elementary up through college are creating games and learning while doing it.

We gathered surveys from 107 game design and development professionals and 300 middle school students, before and after a game development class, about the value of teaching game development in a middle school class. Then we compared the responses of the 7th- and 8th-graders with what the game developers said they felt would be important about making games. We hope this information will help teachers who are constructing game development classes, and show the broader view of the value inherent in game development that professional game makers can provide.

Game Development Is Far More than Just Plain Old Programming
Making computer games can be a great entry point into computer science. Writing code is a major part of making video games, and 58 percent of the professionals surveyed said that programming was a key element of game development. However, they were quick to point out that the great thrill of programming for game development is to make games enjoyable for others.

This consideration for how others experience games is at the heart of game development, in the form of both imagining another's experience of the game and direct feedback by users. It's not coding just to code, it is coding to create something fun for others.

"Game creation is an art of understanding and bending perception of a user... Even if it is ultimately used outside the scope of game creation." - Game developer

"You need to be creative, open minded to anything that comes at you. You need to think outside of reality. You also need to be determined and focused." - 8th grade student

Students indicated that coding was an enjoyable aspect of their course. Oddly, they often didn't recognize the games they were creating were made for their classmates to play. This seems to be a key component of a game development course, as reflected by the professionals' experience in the field. Perhaps highlighting this aspect for students would add to their experience in a positive way.

In the survey, 35 percent of the professionals mentioned creativity, design and the arts as inherent to the value of making games. Also, 44 percent said they thought these concepts should be emphasized in a middle school game creation course. A much smaller percentage of students, 10 percent of 7th graders and 3 percent of 8th graders, said they saw creativity and the arts as a valuable component of game development whereas only 6 percent of the 8th graders said they felt these skills were gained. Game development is an excellent opportunity for students to express themselves creatively. It seems that emphasizing the importance of the more creative and artistic elements might serve to enhance students' overall experience and understanding of what it means to make games.

Developers also said they felt that creating a game requires the use of core skills (like math and science), logic, storytelling and sound design. Conceptualizing game development courses as a multidisciplinary opportunity for students could help instructors create a more transferable experience to the real world resulting in a richer, more broadly applicable experience for students.

The Value in Game Development Goes Beyond Strictly 'Academic' Values
Game developers indicated that middle school students can hone many non-academic skills through the process of creating games such as teamwork, persistence, empathy, willingness to fail, project management, critical thinking, risk and reward analysis and goal setting. The instructor we studied purposefully tried to replicate a game studio setting in his classroom. Students had the freedom to collaborate and work in a flexible way with one another, much like in a real-world setting.

"I gained experience of working in groups to complete a big goal. I learned how to properly start a project and complete it properly. I learned teamwork skills that have helped me in other classes." - 8th grade student

"Games are complex and require people to refine many abstract thoughts into a refined idea that can be executed, not just sound exciting. Very few school classes teach this ability." - Game developer

Making games requires students to think critically about their own ideas and their ultimate goals for their project. The ability to "contain one's ideas" came up repeatedly among the developers. Being able to look objectively at ideas, decide what is realistic, and make a plan to move forward requires a high level of thinking and planning. The professionals said they felt that such executive functioning skills were some of the most important things that young game makers should practice and develop.

Learning To Fail and Discovering Abilities We Didn't Know We Had Is Perhaps Most Important
Developers referred to the cyclical process of game design, where an action is followed by testing and revision, or iteration. Another way to conceptualize this is that students learn to "fail" over and over and how to rebound from each situation. That grit and determination, the willingness to keep working in order to make the game "work," is all part of the constructivist mindset that game development entails.

"Determination, persistence, and getting up when you're knocked down, as well as versatility and resourcefulness, are necessary. Actually, necessary may be an understatement - 100 percent vital skills is a better term, I suppose." -8th grade student

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Beyond Programming: The Power of Making Games -- THE Journal

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Art and creative expression have an interesting way of weaving in and out of classrooms, offering students the opportunity to explore their own ideas and minds. Video games are no different, and while most of the discussion about their use in classrooms centers on play, the benefits of designing games in the classroom can extend far beyond entertainment and even programming.

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Risha Bhardwaj: CGI (computer generated special effects) 

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Risha Bhardwaj: CGI (computer generated special effects) 

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If you are interested in how animation and things that seem too good to be true in movies work, "What is CGI," is a very helpful and enticing article. It gives examples of CGI as well, like Toy Story.

A question for you to think about is:
In the future, how do you think CGI will have changed the entertainment industry, and how often do you think it will be used?

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What Is CGI? Examples of Computer-Generated Imagery in Film - 2022 - MasterClass

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Learn about computer-generated imagery, a special effect that artists use to composite images and create animation.

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many artists now learn to code; computer scientists develop algorithms with aesthetics as the goal. Projects such as Deep Dream, a program that uses neural networks to produce new visuals, let anyone use AI approaches to generate, ostensibly, art
-janvi

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Science and Culture: Computers take art in new directions, challenging the meaning of “creativity”

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In an experiment carried out in early 2017, researchers from Rutgers University, Facebook, and the College of Charleston in South Carolina asked 18 volunteers to look at hundreds of images and rate them on characteristics such as “novelty,” “complexity,” and “structure.” Some of the images showed pa…

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This article is perfect for those who wish to know how technology has caused gaming to evolve. The artice, "How Technology Has Influenced The Gaming Industry," even gives a concise timeline, listing the progression of games over time.

A question for you to think about:

In the future, will games that you play physically, such as board games, be overshadowed by the virtual world of video games?

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How Technology Has Influenced the Gaming Industry

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Since technology the impact from consoles, computers and mobiles has changed the way the gaming industry is seen. With entertainment tablet kiosks, everything is changing.

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EXAMPLE
If you are interested in art and music you will find the article, "Computers are changing how art is made"  very interesting.

An open question about how art/music is made using CS is:

How can computer science keep the artistic process moving forward while the human artist remains in control?

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Maya Ackerman just wanted to write a song.

She tried for years - song after song. In the end, she didn't like any of the tunes she wrote. "I didn't have the gift, if you will," she says. "All the melodies that came into my mind were so boring that I couldn't imagine wasting time performing them."

Maybe, she thought, a computer could help. Computer programs already are useful for recording songs that people come up with. Ackerman now wondered if a computer could be more - a songwriting partner.

It was a flash of inspiration. "I knew in an instant that it would be possible for a machine to give me ideas," she says. That inspiration led to the creation of ALYSIA. This computer program can generate brand-new melodies, based on a user's lyrics.

As a computer scientist at Santa Clara University in California, Ackerman has a lot of experience using algorithms (AL-goh-rith-ums). These are step-by-step mathematical recipes to solve problems and make predictions. Algorithms are useful in programming computers. They also can be useful for everyday tasks. Online movie and music servers use algorithms to recommend films and songs. Self-driving cars need algorithms to safely navigate roads. Some grocery stores track the freshness of produce using algorithms that are connected to cameras or sensors,

Obvious/Wikimedia Commons

When a computer runs software, it's completing tasks by following algorithms written as computer code. Computer scientists like Ackerman analyze, study and write algorithms to solve a wide range of problems. Some of them use algorithms in the field of artificial intelligence, or AI. This emerging technology teaches computers to mimic tasks or activities that the human brain usually handles. In ALYSIA's case, that's songwriting.

Ackerman isn't the only one using AI for songwriting. Some programs build entire orchestral scores around small bits of melody. Others generate music for many instruments. AI also is finding its way into other arts. Painters, sculptors, dance choreographers and photographers have found new ways to collaborate with AI algorithms.

And those efforts are paying off. In October 2018, an art auction in New York City became the first to sell an AI-generated work. A group of computer scientists and artists in France used AI algorithms to create the work. This portrait of an imaginary man made a splash: The painting sold for $432,500.

Ahmed Elgammal runs a computer-science lab that focuses on using AI to influence art. It's at Rutgers University in Piscataway, N.J. "AI is a creative tool that will be accepted as an art form," he says. Eventually, he adds, "It will affect the way art is made, and what art will be."

Virtual art school

Artists and computer scientists began looking for new ways to create art with computers back in the 1950s and 1960s. They built computer-controlled robotic arms holding pencils or paint brushes. In the 1970s, an abstract painter named Harold Cohen introduced the world to the first artistic AI system, called AARON. Over the decades, Cohen added new forms and figures to AARON's abilities. Its art often depicted plants or other living things.

Computer History Museum

A recent experiment from Elgammal's group at Rutgers now suggests that algorithms can create works that could be considered fine art. For this study, 18 people viewed hundreds of images. Each image showed a painting or other work of visual art. Some had been created by people. An AI algorithm had created the rest. Each participant ranked the images based on aspects such as their "novelty" and "complexity." The final question: Did a human or AI create this work of art?

Elgammal and his collaborators had assumed that art made by people would rank higher in categories such as novelty and complexity. But they were wrong. The recruits they invited to review the works often judged AI-created art to be better than those by people. And the participants had concluded that human artists had created most of the AI art.

In 1950, a British computer-science pioneer named Alan Turing introduced the Turing Test. A computer program that can pass the Turing Test is one that can convince a person that it (the program), is human. Elgammal's experiment functioned as a kind of Turing Test.

matdesign24/iStock/Getty Images Plus

"From a viewer point of view, these works passed the Turing Test of art," he now argues.

His group's AI algorithm uses an approach known as machine learning. First, the researchers feed tens of thousands of images of art into the algorithm. This is to train it. Explains Elgammal, "It learns by itself the rules of what makes art."

It then uses those rules and patterns to generate new art - something it hasn't seen before. This is the same approach used by algorithms that can recommend movies or music. They collect data on someone's choices, then predict what might be similar to those choices.

Since its Turing Test experiment, Elgammal's group has invited hundreds of artists to use their software. The goal isn't to show that AI can replace artists. Instead, it seeks to use them as one source of inspiration. The researchers have created a web-based tool, called Playform. It lets artists upload their own sources of inspiration. Then Playform creates something new.

"We want to show an artist that an AI can be a collaborator," Elgammal says.

More than 500 artists have used it. Some use Playform to generate images. Then they use those visuals in new ways for their own works. Others find ways to combine the AI-generated images. An exhibit last year at the largest art museum in Beijing, China, included more than 100 works shaped by AI. Many had been created using Playform. (You can use it, too: Playform.io.)

Bringing art and AI together is Elgammal's passion. He grew up in Alexandria, Egypt, where he loved studying art history and architecture. He also enjoyed math and computer science. In college, he had to choose - and he chose computer science.

Still, he says, "I never abandoned my love for art and art history."

Rise of the cybersongs

Ackerman, in California, has a similar story. Although she listens to pop music, she really likes opera. She studied piano as a child and even performed on national television in Israel, where she grew up. When she was 12, her family moved to Canada. They couldn't afford a piano or the lessons to continue her training. So by high school, she said, she felt lost.

Her father, a computer programmer, suggested she try coding. "I was really good at it," she says. "I loved the sense of creation."

"When I wrote my first computer program," she says, "I was so amazed that I could make a computer do something. I was creating."

In graduate school she took up singing lessons and music came back into her life. She sang in staged operas. Those lessons and performances made her want to sing her own songs. And that led to her songwriting dilemma - and ALYSIA.

Maya Ackerman

The first version of it came together in a few months. In the three years since then, Ackerman and her team have made it easier to use. Other improvements have led it to also turn out better music.

Like Elgammal's algorithm, the algorithm that runs ALYSIA teaches itself the rules. But instead of analyzing art, ALYSIA trains by identifying patterns in tens of thousands of successful melodies. It then uses those patterns to create new tunes.

When users type in lyrics, ALYSIA generates a pop melody to match the words. The program can also generate lyrics based on a topic from the user. Most of ALYSIA's users are first-time songwriters. "They come in without any experience," Ackerman says. "And they write songs about very beautiful and touching things." In November 2019, the French magazine Liberation named a song written with ALYSIA - "Is this Real?" - as its song of the day.

Ackerman thinks ALYSIA offers a glimpse of how computers will continue to change art. "Human-machine collaboration is the future," she believes. That collaboration can take many forms. In some cases, an artist can do all the work. A painter might scan a painting, for instance, or a musician might record a song. In other cases, a computer does all the creative work. With no knowledge about art or coding, someone simply pushes a button and the computer creates something.

Those two situations are extremes. Ackerman is looking for "the sweet spot" - where the computer can keep the process moving, but the human artist remains in control.

But is it creative?

Paul Brown says AI makes it possible for more people to engage with art. "It enables a whole new community to get involved," he says - one that lacks drawing or other skills that one normally links with creative artistic behavior.

Brown is a digital artist. Throughout his 50-year career, he has been exploring the use of algorithms in art. After training as a visual artist in the 1960s, he began exploring how to use machines to create something new. By the 1990s, he was designing and teaching classes in Australia on using computers in art. Now, he has a studio at the University of Essex in England.

P. Brown

The rise in AI's popularity also has triggered a debate, Brown says. Are the computers themselves creative? It depends on whom you ask, and how you ask it. "I've got younger colleagues who believe that artists working with computers are doing something new that doesn't relate to traditional art," he says. "But new technologies are always adopted very quickly. This isn't a particularly new branch of anything, but it does allow them to do new things."

Brown says artists who can write code are at the forefront of this new movement. But at the same time, he also sees AI as but one more tool in an artist's toolbox. Michelangelo used a stonemason's tools to create many of his most famous works. The introduction of paint in tubes, in the mid-19th century, allowed artists like Monet to work outdoors. Similarly, he thinks computers enable artists to do new things.

Elgammal says it's not that simple. There is a way in which AI algorithms themselves are creative, he argues. Computer scientists design the algorithm and choose the data used to train it. "But when I push that button," he points out, "I have no choice over what subject matter is going to be created. What genre, or color or composition. Everything comes through the machine by itself."

In that way, the computer is like an art student: It trains, then creates. But at the same time, Elgammal says, these creations would not be possible without the people setting up the system. As computer scientists continue to refine and improve their algorithms, they'll continue to blur the line between creativity and computation.

Ackerman agrees. "Computers can do creative stuff in ways that are different than humans," she says. "And it's so exciting to see that." Now, she says, "How far can we push the creativity of a computer if a human is not involved?"

Power Words
More About Power Words

abstract: Something that exists as an idea or thought but not concrete or tangible (touchable) in the real world. Beauty, love and memory are abstractions; cars, trees and water are concrete and tangible.

algorithm: A group of rules or procedures for solving a problem in a series of steps. Algorithms are used in mathematics and in computer programs for figuring out solutions.

artificial intelligence: A type of knowledge-based decision-making exhibited by machines or computers. The term also refers to the field of study in which scientists try to create machines or computer software capable of intelligent behavior.

behavior: The way something, often a person or other organism, acts towards others, or conducts itself.

code: (in computing) To use special language to write or revise a program that makes a computer do something. (n.) Code also refers to each of the particular parts of that programming that instructs a computer's operations.

colleague: Someone who works with another; a co-worker or team member.

computer program: A set of instructions that a computer uses to perform some analysis or computation. The writing of these instructions is known as computer programming.

computer science: The scientific study of the principles and use of computers. Scientists who work in this field are known as computer scientists.

data: Facts and/or statistics collected together for analysis but not necessarily organized in a way that gives them meaning. For digital information (the type stored by computers), those data typically are numbers stored in a binary code, portrayed as strings of zeros and ones.

digital: (in computer science and engineering) An adjective indicating that something has been developed numerically on a computer or on some other electronic device, based on a binary system (where all numbers are displayed using a series of only zeros and ones).

field: An area of study, as in: Her field of research was biology. Also a term to describe a real-world environment in which some research is conducted, such as at sea, in a forest, on a mountaintop or on a city street. It is the opposite of an artificial setting, such as a research laboratory.

focus: (in behavior) To look or concentrate intently on some particular point or thing.

graduate school: A university program that offers advanced degrees, such as a Master's or PhD degree. It's called graduate school because it is started only after someone has already graduated from college (usually with a four-year degree).

high school: A designation for grades nine through 12 in the U.S. system of compulsory public education. High-school graduates may apply to colleges for further, advanced education.

intelligence: The ability to collect and apply knowledge and skills.

link: A connection between two people or things.

machine learning: A technique in computer science that allows computers to learn from examples or experience. Machine learning is the basis of some forms of artificial intelligence (AI). For instance, a machine-learning system might compare X-rays of lung tissue in people with cancer and then compare these to whether and how long a patient survived after being given a particular treatment. In future, that AI system might be able to look at a new patient's lung scans and predict how well they will respond to a treatment.

online: (n.) On the internet. (adj.) A term for what can be found or accessed on the internet.

programming: (in computing) To use a computer language to write or revise a set of instructions that makes a computer do something. The set of instructions that does this is known as a computer program. The term is also used, in an analogy to computer programming, to describe the way something - such as cells - have been designed to function. A person who writes or revises software is a known as a programmer.

recruit: (noun) Someone brought in to become a participant in a research trial or experiment.

self-driving car: Also known as a driverless car or autonomous vehicle. These cars pilot themselves based on instructions that have been programmed into their computer guidance system.

sensor: A device that picks up information on physical or chemical conditions - such as temperature, barometric pressure, salinity, humidity, pH, light intensity or radiation - and stores or broadcasts that information. Scientists and engineers often rely on sensors to inform them of conditions that may change over time or that exist far from where a researcher can measure them directly. (in biology) The structure that an organism uses to sense attributes of its environment, such as heat, winds, chemicals, moisture, trauma or an attack by predators.

server: A term for a computer - and especially the software on it - that provides services (hence, the name server) to other computers. A server computer program, for instance, stands ready to fulfill requests by its clients (which are other computer programs). For instance, a web server pulls up website pages or other files upon request. The web browser that you use on your computer to find things on the internet is one type of client. It calls up files from a web server.

software: The mathematical instructions that direct a computer's hardware, including its processor, to perform certain operations.

virtual: Being almost like something. An object or concept that is virtually real would be almost true or real - but not quite. The term often is used to refer to something that has been modeled - by or accomplished by - a computer using numbers, not by using real-world parts. So a virtual motor would be one that could be seen on a computer screen and tested by computer programming (but it wouldn't be a three-dimensional device made from metal). (in computing) Things that are performed in or through digital processing and/or the internet. For instance, a virtual conference may be where people attended by watching it over the internet.

Stephen Ornes lives in Nashville, Tenn., and his family has two rabbits, six chickens and a cat. He has written for Science News for Students since 2008 on topics including lightning, feral pigs, big bubbles and space junk.

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Maya Ackerman just wanted to write a song. She tried for years - song after song. In the end, she didn't like any of the tunes she wrote. "I didn't have the gift, if you will," she says. "All the melodies that came into my mind were so boring that I couldn't imagine wasting time performing them."