ENGL 093A. Virtual Bodies, Virtual Worlds

Do we control technology, or is technology controlling us? In this course we will use the

dystopian visions presented through literature, film, television, and video games to investigate

our culture of surveillance. The fictional depictions of virtual worlds and the virtual bodies that

inhabit them will inspire our own creative projects using cutting-edge immersive reality

technology. Guest speakers including media theorists and industry professionals will join us to

share insights on race and identity online, and the deployment of biometrics and data collection

in Virtual and Augmented Reality. We will also visit makerspaces across campus to learn about

the digital fabrication tools available and engage in design sprints to create user-centered

prototypes. Students will work both independently and collaboratively to research trends in

immersive reality and gain experience writing storyboards, interactive fiction, grant proposals,

work plans, and project critiques. No previous experience with digital fabrication or immersive

reality is necessary.
Humanities.
1 credit.
Eligible for FMST
Spring 2025. Licastro.
Catalog chapter: English Literature
Department website: https://www.swarthmore.edu/english-literature