An integrated curriculum of virtual/augmented reality for multiple design students

Abstract

With the rapid digital developments, the practice and study of VR/AR technologies reached almost all the design disciplines by considering different applications. Therefore, there is continuous pressure on design education, where course programs in graphic design, media design, fashion design, and product design must promptly incorporate these new technologies and create complete unity between the various design professions. This paper provides a careful examination of case studies in literature and consideration of utility for the profession through a curriculum of virtual and augmented reality technologies with specifications that suit multiple areas of design (product and graphic design). This approach demystifies these new technologies from the design process to product marketing. Interviews and discussions were conducted with a sample of approximately 100 participants (60% students, 30% design educators, 10% designers, and employers). The study included different universities from UAE, Egypt, and Italy. During the academic year 2020/2021. Furthermore, the results of this research were applied to design the Virtual Reality and its Derivatives course within the new study plan of the Graphic Design Department, College of Mass Communication at Ajman University in the United Arab Emirates.