The Game Makers @ Curtin is an exciting, hands-on, family-focused event designed to spark creativity, collaboration, and curiosity in the next generation of digital storytellers and designers.
Over two dynamic days, parent-child teams (one child aged 11–15 and one parent or guardian) will explore the art and science of game creation through a series of immersive workshops, creative challenges, and collaborative design sessions.
Presented by Dean Learning Futures, Jonathan Pillai, Participants engage with game creation tools like Scratch, Twine, and Construct, learn coding basics, and collaborate on prototyping and peer feedback, blending creative learning with insights into digital creativity and career pathways.
Program Overview
The event features two themed days Game Design and Building & Prototyping, introducing participants to both the creative and technical sides of game development:
- Day 1: Game Design Foundations
- Interactive talks from industry speakers and Curtin experts on game mechanics, narrative design, and the developmental benefits of play.
- Guided brainstorming and storyboarding sessions to help participants craft compelling worlds and characters.
- Exploration of how games can be used as powerful tools for storytelling, education, and positive change.
- Day 2: Building & Prototyping
- Hands-on creation using beginner-friendly tools like Scratch, Twine, and Construct.
- Introduction to basic coding, digital design, and user experience principles.
- Collaborative peer feedback and mini-showcase where teams share their playable prototypes.
Learning Outcomes
Participants will:
- Gain an understanding of core game design principles, from concept to prototype.
- Develop skills in creative problem-solving, storytelling, coding, and digital literacy.
- Discover how gaming intersects with careers in digital media, design, software development, and creative industries.
- Strengthen communication and teamwork through the unique parent-child collaboration model.
The Game Makers @Curtin reflects Curtin University’s commitment to fostering future-focused, interdisciplinary learning experiences. It empowers young learners to see themselves not just as players, but as creators and innovators shaping the digital worlds of tomorrow.
By blending play, creativity, and education, the event provides families with a meaningful opportunity to engage in digital creation together, while offering a glimpse into pathways within Curtin’s Humanities and Digital Futures programs.
To find out more about our Faculty of Humanities Outreach challenges contact:
