H79.2285 Lecture 4 Credits
Instructor(s): D'Arcangelo
The course explores the design and production of location-based interactive media systems in museums, visitor centers, interpretative centers, parks, retail sites and other public places. We focus on the opportunities and responsibilities designers take on when creating interactive experiences for the general public. The class follows a rigorous methodology and requires students to work on their fundamental design presentation skills. Students work in small teams (of 3-5) to evolve their ideas from concept through design documentation to proof-of-concept. Each team presents a working prototype of an interactive media system for a public space at the end of the semester. Throughout the course, students learn basic project management skills that aid in the realization of innovative ideas. Weekly discussions briefly cover topical subjects such as tangible user interfaces, alternative feedback devices, wireless computing environments and hybrid interactive systems that tie physical spaces to the Internet. The final project includes the presentation of the project with all supporting design documentation (written concept summary, flow charts, storyboards and scripts) and project presentation board. The prototype and all ancillary materials are presented in the end of semester show.
