Immersive Technologies

About This Course

Covering the fundamental concepts, tools, and applications, this module aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how these technologies create engaging and interactive experiences by blending the digital and physical worlds. Through a combination of lectures, hands-on labs, and project-based learning, students will explore the technical aspects of developing immersive content, including 3D modeling, real-time rendering, and user interaction. Additionally, the course will examine the impact of immersive technologies across various sectors such as education, healthcare, entertainment, and beyond, highlighting their potential to transform everyday experiences.

Learning Objectives

• Learn how to build comfortable and effective XR experiences.
• Understand how XR works and its key system elements.
• Develop critical thinking skills to evaluate XR technologies.
• Gain essential vocabulary to communicate with stakeholders.
• Explore XR design principles, approaches, and processes with a user-centred focus.
• Apply XR concepts to create high-fidelity prototypes.
• Ensure inclusive and socially responsible XR design.
• Analyse the broader impact and opportunities of XR to inform key decisions.

Course structure

• Prep-weeks (self-paced) (2 Weeks): 
• • Setting up your development environment (Unity, SDKs), 
  • Basics of C# programming and computer graphics, 
  • Introduction to human-computer interaction
• Week 1-8: Core Learning Modules
• • Week 1: Introduction to Immersive Technologies
  • Week 2: Human Factors and Design Fundamentals
  • Week 3: Designing Immersive Experiences
  • Week 4: Development and Prototyping
  • Week 5: Building Virtual Worlds
  • Week 6: XR for Games
  • Week 7: XR for Education and Communication
  • Week 8: Evaluating XR Systems
• Post-Course Weeks (2 Weeks): 
• • Reflecting on the project, peer reviews,
  • Preparing final reports and presentations.

Study Programs

This course is mandatory for the following study programs:

• M.Sc. Advanced Digital Reality

This course is offered in odd quarters and can, therefore¹, be selected as an elective in the following study programs:

• M.Sc. Cybersecurity
• M.Sc. Applied AI
• M.Sc. Digital Leadership
• MBA Digital Technologies
• MBA Digital Transformation

¹: Generally all mandatory modules of a study program can be selected as an elective in all study programs in which they are not offered as a mandatory module. However, there are several rules that apply. First, at least half of the selected electives have to be taken from your study program. Second, all electives are only available in either odd or even quarters. Therefore, not all electives are available in all programs (given that you want to finish the program within the regular time frame and do not want to take that elective in parallel to your impact project).

Micro Degree

• This course is offered as a micro degree.
• German UDS Micro Degrees are compatible with the European MOOC Consortiums Common Micro Credentials Framework.
• Micro Degrees will be rewarded with an equivalent of 5 ECTS.
• Micro Degrees are offered to non-regular students and require a fee of €900.

Requirements

Basic programming skills. Knowledge and skills as provided in the Prep courses.

General Information

• Teaching Format:
• • Project-based learning with hands-on development with Unity & XR applications
  • Hands-on development with Unity & XR SDKs
  • Conceptual lectures on perception, ethics, and evaluation
  • Case studies from gaming, education, and industry
• Total Workload Master: 125h (40h/85h) / 5 ECTS
• Total Workload MBA: 100h (40h/60h) / 4 ECTS
• Total Workload Micro Degree: 125h (40h/85h) / Equivalent to 5 ECTS
• Module coordinator: Dr. Daniele Di Mitri
• Examinations: Quizzes, presentations, project reports, and written exams.
• Offered: Odd quarters