Program Overview

Virtual Reality DesignMDDN 222

Course Overview

The Virtual Reality Design course, MDDN 222, introduces students to the histories and technical development of Virtual Reality as a field of inquiry and a creative platform for novel and engaging multimedia experiences. Topics include examples of VR from various fields such as science, cinematography, and new media arts. Students will critically evaluate contemporary VR environments using state-of-the-art technology, including a variety of hardware platforms.

Course Details

• Course Code: MDDN 222
• Taught By: School of Design Innovation Faculty of Architecture and Design Innovation
• Duration: Approximately 150 hours or 8.3 hours per week for 18 weeks
• Points: 15 points
• Entry Restrictions:
  • Prerequisites: 75 points including 30 points from the BDI, BAS, BBSc, or BConst schedules
  • Corequisites: None
  • Restrictions: Students who have already passed MDDN 321 cannot take this course

Course Learning Objectives

Students who pass this course should be able to:

• Use a variety of VR software and hardware to implement design solutions
• Communicate design concepts orally, visually, and in writing with clarity and insight
• Articulate and analyze VR design principles as demonstrated through historical, cultural, and political examples
• Collaborate effectively in a multi-disciplinary team

How This Course is Taught

• Lecture and Studio Sessions: One lecture and two studio class sessions per week, requiring in-person attendance
• Lecture Recordings: Available in Nuku for subsequent revision

Assessment

• First Principles: Explorable VR environment created from assembled assets and simple interactions (25%)
• VR Environment: Presented inside a mixed-reality museum with a VR sculpted artifact (35%)
• MR Experience: With a focus on interaction (40%)
• Assessment Dates and Extensions: Available through Nuku, the University's online learning environment

What You'll Need to Get

• VR Headset: Access to a VR headset, which can be hired from the Course Coordinator at the Te Aro campus if needed
• Computer Requirements:
  • For Oculus Quest and Oculus Quest 2: Windows, Mac, or Linux computers
  • For PCVR content: Any computer that can run Unreal Engine, but will only run on a PCVR headset under Windows
  • For Mixed Reality Project Submissions: Meta Quest 2 or 3 headset
• Other Materials and Equipment: Students will need to provide all other necessary materials and equipment apart from VR headsets

Fees

• Domestic Students: NZ$1,083.45
• International Students: NZ$5,235.75

Lecture Times and Rooms

• Lecture Start Times: Monday 9:30 am, Wednesday 9:30 am
• Campus: Te Aro Campus
• Trimester: Trimester 2
• CRN: 32110

Mandatory Requirements

There are no mandatory requirements for this course.