The final project for this class is an essay in which you explore a specific point related to the topics and texts from this class. This might include a close reading of an ARG experience or an analysis of critical themes in virtual reality. Given the variety of things we've covered, you should have plenty of topics to choose from. The key criterion for which your work will be evaluated (besides basic clarity of expression) will be the level of insight and engagement you offer.
The paper should be 5 - 7 pages long (or about 1500 words) and you should write it in formal, academic prose. This means it should be free of grammar and spelling errors, and it should reflect a mature level of writing and thought. Avoid slang expressions, casual formulations, and slang. Images should be fully documented, and any sources should have complete, MLA-style citations.
I welcome the opportunity to discuss your paper topic, either electronically or in person, so please take advantage of the time you have now to prepare a good quality product. Specifically, I expect each of you to have a well-developed thesis and outline by Dec 2, the last day of class. The paper itself is due on the morning of December 7, when will meet one last time to discuss how the papers turned out.
Submit your work through the website before the morning of December 7 by creating content type "Essay." Also note: you may wish to create and originally post a draft form of your essay. Then, you can solicit feedback on it and work to revise it on the website. (To find it again, click on "My Workspace" in your navigation menu.)
Update: I am willing to accept alternatives to this assignment -- something creative, for example. As long your work accomplishes a goal similar to what a paper would, I am happy. Specifically, I suspect this paper to reflect a cumulative and well-engaged understanding of the topics this course has covered, so if you want to do a creative work as well. So, if you want to do something, come up with your idea and run it by me. If I don't approve your non-paper project by Nov 30, I'll still expect a paper from you on the 6th.
Another Update: Some have expressed interest in creating a standalone ARG or transmedia project. This is an idea with great merit, as long as it accomplishes the same goals as a final paper: reflecting critically and cumulatively on the big ideas of the semester. To make it easier to think about the scope of sucb a project, here are some guidelines:
- A narrative description of the gameplay or story sequence (about 4 pages)
- At least two in-game artifacts (a character blog or twitter account, for example)
- At least one working puzzle
- A "bible" or reference sheet for all characters, settings, and plot points
Yet Another Update: Finally, another option that others have expressed interest in is to complete an ARGhive, in the manner of the original ARGhive assignment. This will be more difficult than original conceived (since the Zotero import function no longer works), so the scope does rise to the scale of a final project. Basically, you'd be working with Omeka to build an "exhibit" of your ARG's data. If you're interested in this option, please talk to me as soon as possible.
