Dive into the world of video and computer games with our course designed to explore their social and psychological impacts, particularly in the Indian context. Taught by Humanities and Social Sciences experts, this course offers a humanistic perspective on gaming, delving into narrative structures, game rules, ethics, classifications, and themes. By the end, you'll be able to critique games aesthetically and structurally, understand their effects on players, and connect these insights to being an informed gamer or game developer. Ideal for those familiar with video games, this course prepares you to engage in thoughtful discussions and contribute to the gaming community with a broader, more informed perspective.



Video Games - Technology and Social Impacts

Instructor: BITS Pilani Instructors Group
Access provided by Course Builder (Internal Testing)
Recommended experience
What you'll learn
Analyze video game evolution, design elements, and cultural themes using interdisciplinary frameworks.
Evaluate social impacts of gaming in education, health, and society through critical analysis.
Understand gaming psychology, player behavior, and design principles that create engagement.
Examine industry dynamics including journalism, economics, esports, and live streaming trends.
Skills you'll gain
Details to know

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November 2025
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There are 10 modules in this course
In this module, the learners will explore the history of video games from the 1950s to the present, a brief introduction to video games and video game studies, and an outline of the Socio-Cultural-Political implications of Video Games. How technology has developed into what one sees as video games today will be discussed in this module. Along with history, the key people, their technology, and key terms important to various milestones in history will be discussed. Overall, this module will give a brief but broad introduction to video games and the critical framework (social, cultural, and political) of video game studies.
What's included
18 videos17 readings6 assignments
There are different elements that constitute video games as an interactive medium. The narrative of video games, player experience, and aesthetics of video games contribute to enhancing the interactivity of the games. This helps the players to be active participants in shaping the story's progression. This module explores the diverse ways video games craft their narratives by allowing players to experience diverse plots and outcomes through their choices and actions.
What's included
16 videos16 readings6 assignments
This module explores various cultural themes and concepts associated with video games. It highlights aspects of community among gamers and the ethical values they abide by. Further, it discusses the prevalence of violent themes in games and the nature of addiction that is often seen among gamers. The module also highlights the techno-masculine culture persisting in video game communities. The module also explores the themes of nature and ecological representation in video games. The module focuses on bringing awareness to the various cultural and social factors within the world of video games.
What's included
13 videos13 readings6 assignments
This module gives a brief description of two important narratives in video games—the puzzle and the drama. The lessons on puzzles and dramas shall take the learners through its key theories, characteristics, and effects on its users. The module then takes its course into exploring the socio-technical systems of video games. As a game developer, this module will enable the learners to create innovative game mechanics.
What's included
6 videos6 readings5 assignments
This module will take the learners through the social impacts of video games. The module discusses the relevance of video games in education and physical well-being and briefly outlines the negative effects of video games. This module aims to enlighten learners about the profound impact video games can have on individuals, fostering social awareness among gamers and game developers alike.
What's included
6 videos6 readings5 assignments
In this module we will learn about the psychology behind player behavior. We get a glimpse of the concepts of online conflicts, cheating tendencies, and nostalgia for classic games, participants will gain insights into the psychology of play. Additionally, the module aims to highlight both the positive and negative effects of video games on cognitive health and social well-being, while delving into the strategies employed in gaming marketing and the principles of game design to make games engaging.
What's included
13 videos13 readings6 assignments
In this module, we will learn about the concept of gamification and how it connects with the current wave of serious games. We shall then look at its impact on daily lives. Further, we analyze digital games designed for serious purposes by highlighting the differences from other video games.
What's included
12 videos12 readings6 assignments
In this module we will learn about game journalism and its evolution. We will also cover game economics and its issues.
What's included
12 videos12 readings6 assignments
In this module, we learn about the field of esports and the rise of esports in modern times. This is followed by lessons on the challenges and issues related to esports. We also learn about live streaming in video games, and its contribution to esports.
What's included
9 videos9 readings5 assignments
In this module we take a short tour of live streaming in video gaming, which is an important reason why video gaming has gained immense popularity in the time of internet. We explore the logistics and set up, along with the practical considerations. Finally, we will analyze current trends, the role of AI, and future prospects within this rapidly evolving sector of the gaming industry.
What's included
8 videos9 readings5 assignments
Instructor

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