Video of environment

More screenshots

more screenshots of the build on UDK, i am putting the assets all on one scene to be able to view them. However its almost as if I've created a art gallery or zoo! possiblt further development to mention in my final presentation.

Screenshots

Importing to UDK4

Final concept

The aim of my project this year was to create a learning tool for younger students. I wanted to create a 3d application that not only taught children but kept them motivated whilst they learnt. The reason being is that teaching is something I'd like to consider for the future (After gaining industry experience). My concept was to create 3d models of famous landmarks/buildings/statues etc.(throughout the essay I will call them landmarks) And have small signs around the buildings containing information about the certain landmark. I thought 3-4 models would be a realistic goal. As the models were created using 3d software, they would have the feel of playing a video game, which obviously most younger people enjoy doing. So by doing this it would keep them interested but also help them to learn without realising they are learning. The main target audience for this product was aimed at primary school children. I feel it would help them learn more about the world and various types of history.

Initially my concept was to build models that could then be viewed in Google maps by clicking on them then a 360 view of the model would load up and the user could view the model, but I wanted to push my idea further and thought using it as a learning tool was a better idea. Finding the landmarks would teach the students about the geographical location of the landmark and the 3d view would teach the students more about the history of the location.

My visual style was initially to keep the builds as realistic as possible, but as never being to these places and all the small intricate carvings within, I thought I'd go for a simpler design, as not only would it take a very long time but I thought a simpler texture would be more appropriate as I am aiming my idea towards the younger generation.

After I made the change to make a learning tool, I began reading more about psychology and what keeps the brain stimulated when it comes to learning something new. Which led me to the concept of my idea.

Update

It has been a while since I updated, mainly due to being busy with the work!

As you know I have an idea in my head that involves using Google maps and 3d modeling for teaching children about famous structures/buildings/statues etc.

So I had a look through some child psychology books and had read through to find out ways to communicate with younger people. As the concept I have is for teaching, it is vital I try to keep the work interesting so that the students want to learn. The visual style of my approach to texturing has also changed. I was initially going to go for a realistic style but as I have never really been to most of the landmarks I am creating so it would be pretty much impossible to do the textures justice (working from photos is just to difficult) , I thought I'd go for a more child friendly texturing style.

In the next few days I will upload some images , and will also be using a website  to show my models, check it out, the models can also be viewed on phones/tablets www.sketchfab.com