I.       Overview:

This course will introduce you to Virtual Reality (VR). VR-the hardware and the history of VR-to different applications of VR, the psychology of Virtual Reality, and the challenges of the medium.

The race is designed for people who are new to VR as a medium. You may have experienced some virtual reality before, and may have some hardware - but this course is suitable for those who have never experienced VR and those who do not have much hardware - we will explain Oculus Rift and HTC Vive.

Introduction to Virtual Reality is the first course in the Virtual Reality Specialization. A student with a previous experience in Virtual Reality and / or game programming will be able to evaluate existing VR applications, and design, test, and implement their own VR experiences / games using Unity by the end of the specialization.

II.    Duration:  40 hours

III. Prerequisites:

No prior knowledge is required

IV. Course outlines:

1.      Virtual Reality- Hardware and History

In this module, we’ll cover the basics of VR. We’ll start by sharing a definition of Virtual Reality, and exploring VR hardware, and then you’ll see demonstrations of a range of VR Head Mounted Devices. In the latter part of the week, you will hear more about the history of Virtual Reality and finish the week by drafting your ideas for a VR application.

2.      VR Applications

This module, you’ll learn more about the different applications of VR- from news and documentaries, to sports, therapy, and games. You will also learn more about the VR Technical Framework, and will have the opportunity to share your thoughts on VR applications with your peers.

3.      The Psychology of VR: The Three Illusions

In this module, Professor Mel Slater will take us through the Three Illusions. We'll discuss Illusion Place, Plausibility Illusion, and Illusion Embodiment, with some interesting tricks along the way!

4.      Challenges in Virtual Reality