| Course Objectives: |
The aim of this course is to critically examine the role, representation, and participation of women and gender-diverse individuals in the game industry. Students will explore structural inequalities, analyze character representation in games, learn about inclusive design practices, and reflect on professional pathways for women and marginalized communities in gaming. By the end of the course, students will be able to recognize key challenges and opportunities in the field and contribute to a more inclusive game culture through their own creative and critical work. |
| Course Content: |
This course explores gender representation, equity, and inclusion in the game industry through an interdisciplinary lens. Students will examine the historical and current roles of women and gender-diverse individuals in gaming, analyze narrative and visual representation in character design, and critique the stereotypes and biases embedded in game culture. Topics include inclusive game development practices, accessibility, labor conditions, and the challenges of workplace discrimination. The course also highlights the contributions of women in both mainstream and indie gaming spaces, with a focus on community-building, mentorship, and advocacy networks. Through theoretical readings, case studies, and creative reflection, students will gain the tools to critically assess gender dynamics in games and develop their own inclusive design or analysis projects. |
| Week |
Subject |
Related Preparation |
| 1) |
Introduction to the Course & Gender in Games |
Read: Shaw (2014), Introduction |
| 2) |
Historical Roles of Women in Games |
Watch: “Women in Gaming: 1980s–Now” video |
| 3) |
Representation in Game Narratives |
Play or watch clips of games with gendered storylines |
| 4) |
Visual Design & Female Characters |
Bir kadın oyun karakteri üzerine vaka hazırlığı |
| 5) |
Masculinity and Exclusion in Gaming |
Read: Excerpt from “Gaming Masculinities” |
| 6) |
Inclusive Game Design Principles |
Read: Inclusive design checklist + analyze 1 game |
| 7) |
Midterm Reflection |
Review all weeks and prepare short reflection essay |
| 8) |
Workplace Inequality & Labor Conditions |
Read: Articles on gender discrimination in studios |
| 9) |
Queer & Feminist Indie Games |
Choose and explore 1 indie feminist/queer game |
| 10) |
Communities & Advocacy in Gaming |
Research: Women-led gaming groups or movements |
| 11) |
Mentorship & Networks in the Industry |
Prepare interview questions for guest / event review |
| 12) |
Final Project Workshop |
Bring project outline or draft for in-class feedbac |
| 13) |
Final Presentations |
Final project submission and prep |
| 14) |
Wrap-up & Reflection |
Write final reflection (optional) |
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Program Outcomes |
Level of Contribution |
| 1) |
Possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to fulfill nursing roles and functions. |
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| 2) |
Fulfills the health care needs of individuals, families, and society by utilizing professional roles through a holistic and evidence-based approach, in accordance with the nursing process, ethical principles, patient safety, and quality standards. |
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| 3) |
Uses care and informatics technologies in nursing practice, research, education, and management. |
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| 4) |
Establishes effective communication and collaboration with individuals, families, society, colleagues, other healthcare team members, and organizations for the development and delivery of healthcare services. |
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| 5) |
Accesses international nursing literature through the use of a foreign language. |
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| 6) |
Adheres to the relevant legislation in professional nursing practices. |
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| 7) |
Applies lifelong learning, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills in personal and professional life. |
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| 8) |
Determines protection and nursing care priorities in situations that impact public health on a large scale, such as natural disasters and pandemics, and demonstrates responsiveness in crisis management. |
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| 9) |
Contributes to the development, implementation, evaluation, and continuous improvement of health policies and organizational quality systems. |
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| 10) |
Takes an active role in research, projects, and activities with a sense of social responsibility. |
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