Students studying on the Computer Games Development BSc Honours course at the University of Westminster travelled to Vienna as part of the iLRNFuser Game Jam 2023, visiting organisations such as Mi’pu’mi Games and the Fachhochschule des BFI Wien, gaining valuable insight into the gaming industry.
The field trip took place between 30 May and 6 June and formed part of the iLRNFuser Game Jam 2023, the official Online Game Jam series of the Immersive Learning Research Network, which has been led this year by Markos Mentzelopoulos, Course Leader for the Computer Games Development BSc Honours course at Westminster.
The theme for this year’s Game Jam was the second UN Sustainable Development Goal: End Hunger, Achieve Food Security, and Improve Nutrition and Promote Sustainable Agriculture.
Kai Erenli, Course Director at the University of Applied Sciences in Vienna, the Fachhochschule des BFI Wien, said: “We believe that games have the power to educate, inspire, and drive positive change, and what better way to tackle such a critical issue than through the creative medium of video games!”
Through the trip, the Computer Science students were given the opportunity to network and gain insights into where their careers could take them after graduation.
While in Vienna, the students visited the headquarters of the well-known game studio Mi'pu'mi Games and attended a presentation by COO and managing director, Martin Filipp. During the presentation, Filipp spoke about the Austrian games industry and gave insights into both game production and management skills – topics that will help the students as they embark on their respective careers.
The group also had the opportunity to work at the Fachhochschule des BFI Wien, immersing themselves in a vibrant atmosphere of learning and collaboration.
Before leaving Vienna, the students were able to present their ideas in front of a small expert jury with Jens Lindfors and Rene Vidra from POWERPIXEL STUDIOS LIMITED. These presentations showcased the immense talent and dedication of our participants.
About the field trip, Markos Mentzelopoulos said: “This international field trip with a team of students and academics was a transformative journey where boundaries were blurred and horizons expanded. Interacting with companies from the game industry helped the students and academics to absorb invaluable insights and unveiled the inner workings of this dynamic field. The trip not only enhanced students' employability but also served as a catalyst for personal growth.
“Through cross-cultural exchanges, the students gained a deeper appreciation for the world's vibrant tapestry of ideas and perspectives. The students improved their understanding of new world factors such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals through collaborated research and development. And as a group, we immersed ourselves in diverse cultures that expanded our minds and nurtured our creativity.”
Find out more about Computer Science and Engineering courses at the University of Westminster.
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