May 30, 2024

Design hacks and strategies for teaching immersive media

David Hardy

About this video

Description

The confluence of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) has yielded a new subdiscipline that young digital designers will need to fill in coming years. Hardware and software in this space has been launched and dissolved in the span of a decade, but the resources allocated by Meta and now Apple have all but ensured a path forward. Until now, the media landscape in this field has been dominated by games at one end, and operator training for high-skilled industries at the other. Device comfort, ergonomics, and availability of hardware and software has started to push development of applications for the middle-tier user. Travel, storytelling, and creativity are at the heart of some of the newest offerings available. So, how will you teach your students to design spatial interfaces and content? Until fairly recently, this had to be done in a dressed-up, two-dimensional way or with the help of a developer. Static mockups and proof of concepts using motion graphics have been the standard in conceiving immersive layouts. Now, we’ve finally arrived at viable options for prototypes of all levels that can be taught from within a design curriculum. This presentation will outline how to get started teaching design for immersive media, from early-stage sketching, mid-fidelity mockups, and high-fidelity prototypes that will “wow” potential stakeholders. Open source or free tools will be used to ensure wide accessibility for students and educators.

David Hardy

David Hardy's practice focuses on a multidisciplinary approach to design and technology for nonprofit, community, and forward-thinking organizations. His research concerns the craft-based exploration of digital methods and tools and the concept of hacking them for novel uses. His book, "Introduction to Digital Media Design" (Bloomsbury) serves as a framework for educating young designers in the 21st century. David leads an annual study abroad in The Netherlands where students study Dutch design and culture. Prior to his career in higher education, David was a senior web designer for MGM Resorts where he designed and built large-scale websites for Las Vegas properties such as The Bellagio and Mandalay Bay. He has also worked as a graphic designer in several ad agencies, such as Ogilvy's Creative Studio in Washington D.C.