As we may build: the design & function of online virtual space

Author/Creator

Author/Creator ORCID

Date

2010-11

Type of Work

Department

University of Baltimore. School of Information Arts and Technologies

Program

University of Baltimore. Doctor of Communications Design

Citation of Original Publication

Rights

This item may be protected under Title 17 of the U.S. Copyright Law. It is made available by the University of Baltimore for non-commercial research and educational purposes.

Abstract

"There is no understanding of virtual space, only a loose collection of articles related to realism in rendering or behavior" - Lev Manovich, The Language of New Media. Manovich's statement echoes a largely unspoken truth, that there is no understanding of what we may build in virtual space. This dissertation is specifically for designers, the builders of virtual spaces. Virtual space is both world and interface. It is a visionary medium in need of practical guidance. The ideas presented here stand on a foundation of HCI/usability, film theory, and hints of game design.