A Pedagogical Approach to Exploring Place and Interaction Design in Collaborative Virtual Environments

Abstract

In most design schools, collaborative virtual environments (CVEs) are traditionally perceived and used as a computer-aided design (CAD) tool for 3D modelling and simulation. However, the design in virtual worlds can also be a stand-alone design subject that considers virtual worlds as a novel design environment for exploring place and interaction design, and not merely a technical tool for supporting design simulation. This chapter reports on our experience of teaching the design of virtual worlds as a design subject, and discusses the principles for designing interactive virtual worlds. We conclude by identifying future directions for designing and learning in virtual worlds.