In this unit, you will explore differences and intersections between virtual/conceptual and physical/experiential fields of design. Through practical fieldwork, you will consider human interactions with public and private spaces, objects, and buildings and architecture in the physical world, and compare these to the ways that people interact with mediated, virtual and augmented spaces. You will also investigate how these spaces can be designed to maximise human interactions and experience. This can include sensory elements (touch, feel, sound, smell, texture, colour, form, direction) and cognitive and emotional elements (understanding, decision-making, satisfaction, relaxation, excitement).

Practical Approaches to Learning at University College

The University College is committed to providing students with opportunities to engage in practical learning experiences. Every unit is therefore driven by at least one approach that is problem or project-based, or that involves work-integrated learning.

In this unit, you will participate in a field trip to gain insight into contemporary industry practices, explore challenges and innovations and consider yourself in the context of work. From there, you will complete an experiential report, and an industry scan, before presenting an idea you have for organisational change.

These activities allow you to develop discipline-specific skills, knowledge and behaviours, alongside a range of employability skills and professional attributes. Some of these include, for example, active inquiry, communication, social, cultural and ethical responsibility, planning and critical reflection.

To find more information on the University College’s approach to teaching and learning, click here to view in the Unit Outline Essential Information resource.