Mark Cannon

Overview

Mark is a Lecturer in Games Design at Ulster University and an Unreal Authorized Instructor with Epic Games. Mark specialises in game design and the use of real-time game technologies, combining game design theory with technical development practices to develop rapid game and interactive experience prototypes.

Prior to Ulster University, Mark worked in the games industry, where he gained professional experience across game development and interactive technologies. Mark brings this industry-informed perspective into his teaching, supporting students in developing both creative and technical skills while maintaining active engagement with emerging game technologies and real-time development practices.

Teaching and Learning

Mark teaches across undergraduate and postgraduate Games Design programmes at Ulster University, with a particular focus on game design, gameplay programming, and real-time technologies. He is Module Coordinator for Gameplay Scripting, where he leads the design and delivery of teaching that develops students' technical and creative understanding of gameplay systems using industry-standard tools and workflows. As an Unreal Authorized Instructor with Epic Games, he embeds professional development practices and real-time technologies throughout both undergraduate and master's-level teaching.

Mark's teaching philosophy is centred on project-based learning, rapid prototyping, and experiential learning, encouraging students to apply game design theory through practical implementation. Drawing on his professional games industry experience, he emphasises collaborative working, iterative design, and technical problem-solving to prepare students for careers in games development and interactive media. An Associate Fellow of Advance HE (AFHEA), Mark is committed to creating inclusive, student-centred learning experiences that bridge academic study with professional practice and support students in developing the technical, creative, and professional skills required by the contemporary games industry.

External Engagement and Professional Development

Mark works collaboratively with external organisations to support the development and adoption of digital technologies within education. Through his collaboration with Northern Ireland Screen, he has contributed to the delivery of professional development and training for educators, supporting the integration of real-time technologies, game development tools, and digital production workflows within teaching and learning environments.

As an Unreal Authorized Instructor with Epic Games, Mark brings industry-standard knowledge and practices into these activities, helping educators develop confidence and capability in emerging creative technologies. His external engagement strengthens connections between higher education, industry, and the wider creative technology sector, contributing to the advancement of digital skills and innovation in education.