COMM 113S: Virtual Reality and Human Behavior

Course Description

This course offers an examination of virtual reality (VR) and digital human representations, focusing on creation, interaction, and applications. Students will explore the multidisciplinary landscape of VR including psychology, computer science, and communication. As we delve into the concept of the Metaverse, a computer-generated environment where individuals can meet and interact, students will critically evaluate current conceptualizations of these virtual environments. Key topics include the psychological and behavioral mechanisms influencing perception, the design of these immersive virtual spaces, and the ethical considerations shaping their regulation. Through engaging with various VR/MR headsets, students will embark on virtual field trips to various virtual worlds. We will combine in-VR experiences with academic readings and discussions to equip students with the skills necessary to design VR spaces, foster a deeper understanding of the interactions in them and understand how they affect online and offline behaviors.