Game design from the lens of a student

The efficacy of games-based instruction in computer science education ultimately depends on the student experience. As there remains a continued emphasis on the use of games in computer science education, there is a need for a deeper exploration on the impact of the structure of game design and development courses on computer science student's overall experience. Though current research reflects the benefits of games within computer science courses, there is limited research that depicts the voice of the students. Student's insight is both necessary and relevant both to researchers and educators if games are to be sought to further the agenda of increasing participation in computer science education. This paper describes a game design course from the lens of six graduate students; it explores some of their challenges and their gratifications.