Enhancing Assessment and Feedback in Game Design Programs

The integration of generative AI tools in game design education offers promising ways to streamline the grading, assessment, and feedback processes that are typically labor-intensive. In game design programs, faculty often deal with varied file formats, including 3D models, executable prototypes, videos, and complex game design documents. Traditional methods of assessment and feedback, primarily text-based, struggle to provide timely and actionable insights for students. Furthermore, only a small percentage of top students consistently review and apply feedback, leading to inefficiencies. This article explores how generative AI tools can augment these processes by automating aspects of grading, generating more personalized and meaningful feedback, and addressing the time-intensive nature of reviewing diverse file formats. Key strategies are discussed, including the use of rubrics tailored for AI-based assessment, automated prompts for narrative-driven assignments, and the application of AI in reviewing complex project builds. The objective is to create more time for faculty to engage in live mentoring and hands-on learning activities, which research shows to be more effective. Practical examples of various game design assignments, including build reviews and document evaluations, are provided to illustrate these new approaches. This shift promises to enhance student engagement and improve learning outcomes.