Autodesk Introduces Mobile Games Curriculum, Certification Program

Design software manufacturer Autodesk has released three new mobile games-focused training modules for its Autodesk Animation Academy 2011 curriculum for secondary schools. The modules are designed to help students master tools used for the creation of interactive mobile content, including Autodesk Maya, Unity 3D, Maya Cloth, and Fur. Autodesk's latest modules add over 180 hours of free training material to the Animation Academy program, which now includes four full semesters of coursework. Autodesk has additionally launched the Autodesk Certified Instructor program, providing mentoring, coaching, and accreditation services for instructors teaching Autodesk software. Participants in the program will receive access to training guides and online courses to prepare for a series of three online certification tests. After completing the exams, candidates must attend and pass a three-day observational assessment seminar to receive Certified Instructor qualification. Autodesk notes that the program serves as a low-cost alternative for trainers certified in other Autodesk software suites to receive cross-certification without having to participate in an additional training workshop.