DM2006 NARRATIVES FOR INTERACTION

Narrativity and Interaction: Introduction to the different modes of narrativity and interaction. Overview of the types of interactive narratives including: linear, parallel, multithreaded, branched, and non-linear. Identifiying implicit and explicit interactive narratives. Balancing interactivity and narration in a project. Nonlinear vs Linear Narrative Structures: Historical overview of nonlinear narrative structures in traditional media. Analysis of the differences between linear and nonlinear forms. Analysis of nonlinear digital storytelling strategies. Database Narratives: Identifying and analyzing database narrative forms. Comparing database logic with conventional storytelling. Identifiying possible strategies for conceptualization of a database driven narrative. Generative Narratives: Analysis and discussion on procedurally generated narratives. Historical overview of generative art. Designing Narrative Architectures: Identifying and developing conceptual frameworks for an interactive narrative project. The importance of the development and design of a project prototype. You will prototype your ideas in order to experience narrative interactions before you step into production. Authoring Interactive Narrative: Project development through the following phases: (in chronological order): conceptualizing, development of a project demo, adjustment of the project goals and outcomes, production, postproduction. Class assignments: One core interactive narrative project that enables students to analyze database narratives, generative narratives, linear vs nonlinear narratives. The medium of project can be, but it is not limited to: interactive website, game, projection, performance, soundscape, etc. Developed through self-directed learning with guidance, assisted with lectures, tutorials, class excercises, and peer/instructor feedback sessions.