Action-packed computer games appeal to most males. The opposite sex, on the other hand, is not always interested in car chases and battling aliens.  | | Alien cityscape design by Chris Dale |
But now a Leicester university lecturer is trying to break the mould and encourage more girls to take up careers in computer game design. Michael Powell, who runs De Montfort University’s degree course in game art design is setting up a scheme to challenge the male-dominated industry. He has been given £50,000 by the National Teaching Fellowship Scheme will be used for a three year project, which includes running workshops in schools and colleges. ...Check out these computer game images designed by former De Montfort students....  | | Alien landscape by Andy Matthews |
The first school to take part in the scheme is Sir Jonathan North Community College. Mr Powell says the girls’ school is ideal for the project because he wants to encourage more women to consider careers in computer game design. | "One of the big misconceptions about the industry is that it is technology-based and very boyish." | | Michael Powell |
He said: “One of the big misconceptions about the industry is that it is technology-based and very boyish. “In fact there is a growing need for real artistic talent in games design. And there is also a need to design games which girls and women want to play.  | | Alien explorer craft by Andy Matthews |
“We want girls to know that there is no boundary between technology and art any more and that their talent is needed.” | 
