LO1 Understand the concepts, models, state of state-of-the art and main applications in VR, AR, XR in solving current problems through research and critical analysis of literature sources
LO2 Understand basic mathematical principles of the system/algorithms of 3D Computer Graphics: representation of geometric and hierarchical 3D models (polygon meshes, scene graphs), their realistic and real-time visualization (3D transformation and visualization chain, visibility calculation, local/global lighting, texture mapping)
LO3 Understand the key technologies: VR (in/out channels, human-computer interaction HCI); AR (data collection from the real
environment and interpretation, 3D visualization and HCI)
LO4 Know how to apply 3D modeling and develop no code VR/AR apps in Sketchup, EON Reality, Delitex Edu,Open XR,EON
Reality,Open XR
LO5 Design laboratory experiences: VR or AR
LO6 Explore creativity, innovation, critical thinking, self-learning, peer review, teamwork, written and oral expression
S1 Introduction, syllabus and assessment. Initial definitions: the Mixed Reality continuum, Extended Reality and the Metaverse. Current topics and trends
S2 3D Computer Graphics: Definitions and concepts. 3D geometric modelling. 3D visualisation. Virtual camera. Hierarchy of graphical objects. Scene graph. Light and colour. Lighting and shading. Texture mapping
S3 Virtual Reality (VR): Definition. Model. Immersive and non-immersive VR. Historical evolution. Applications. Key technologies: Output channel: projection, displays, stereoscopy, 3D audio and auralisation, new channels. Input channel: tracking, multimodal interfaces, haptic and vestibular interfaces
S4 Augmented Reality (AR): Definition. Model. Historical evolution. Applications. Key technologies: real-world environment data acquisition and interpretation, visualisation of 3D-registered virtual objects, human-computer interaction
S5 Metaverse Laboratory: Design a VR or AR laboratory experience.
S6 Future trends in VR/AR/XR
This curricular unit, due to its eminently practical and applied nature, follows the project-based ALS – Assessment Throughout the Semester model, as provided for in the RGACC – Iscte General Regulations for the Assessment of Knowledge and Competences, and does not include assessment by examination.
Assessment in the curricular unit comprises the following components:
• 40% continuous individual activities, namely participation in forums, completion of practical exercises, completion of quiz-based lessons, and participation in synchronous classes;
• 60% group laboratory project work + final presentation and discussion.
Participation in both components is mandatory. The final project is always presented synchronously to a panel that includes the Curricular Unit Coordinator, followed by a question-and-answer session. The weighted average of the different components must be 9.5/20 or higher.
The First Assessment Period and the Second Assessment Period may be used to carry out assessment activities.
Use of artificial intelligence. The Guidelines for the Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence in Academic Work (Scientific Council,
21/04/2026) apply, under the following specific rules: the use of AI in project deliverables is permitted and must be declared in accordance with point 4 of the Guidelines, including the attached form; its use is prohibited in tests and practical assessments carried out in class, including any repeat assessment.
For any assessment component, the lecturer or Curricular Unit Coordinator may, at any time during the semester, request an individual oral discussion to confirm authorship of the work submitted and/or assess the knowledge and competences demonstrated by the student.
Assessment includes individual oral verification components, in which the student is required to explain and modify the work submitted.
In addition to the RGACC, students are advised to consult other reference documents relevant to the assessment process, including the Regulations for Students with Special Status (REEE), the Academic Code of Conduct (CCA), and the Student Disciplinary Regulations (RDD).
Mandatory
Hughes, John, van Dam, Andries, McGuire, Morgan, Sklar, David, Foley, James D., Feiner, Steven K., Akeley, Kurt (2014). Computer Graphics: Principles and Practice (3rd Edition). Addison-Wesley. ISBN-13: 978-0133511079. Joseph J. LaViola Jr., Ernst Kruijff, Ryan P. McMahan, Doug Bowman, Ivan P. Poupyrev (2017), 3D User Interfaces: Theory and Practice (2nd Edition), Addison-Wesley Professional, ISBN-10: 0134034325. Slater, M., Steed, A., Chrysanthou, Y., ”Computer Graphics and Virtual Environments: From Realism to Real-Time”, Mel Slater, 2002, Addison Wesley, ISBN: 0-201-62420-6 Jesse Glover, Jonathan Linowes (2019). Complete Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Development with Unity: Leverage the power of Unity and become a pro at creating mixed reality applications ISBN-10: 1838648186
Optional
Azuma, R. T (1997). “A survey of augmented reality”. Presence, 6(4):355–385, 1997 Bastos, P. & Dias, M. S., 2008., “Experiência de Realidade Virtual Imersiva no Ambiente CaveHollowspace do Lousal”, Actas do Interacção 2008 – 3ª Conferência Interacção Pessoa-Máquina, Universidade de Évora, 15 - 17 Oct 2008 HEIM, M. (1993), The Metaphysics of Virtual Reality, Oxford University Press, 208 pages. Lopes, M., Silva, J., Dias, M. S., Eloy, S., Gaspar, F., Miguel, R., Mendonça, N. (2014), “Sistema de Realidade Aumentada para Apoio ao Projeto de Arquitetura”. in Atas da EPCG 2014, 21º Encontro Português de Computação Gráfica, 13 e 14 de novembro de 2014, Leiria, Portugal. Mazuryk, T. & Gervautz, M., (1996). “Virtual Reality: History, Applications, Technology and Future”. Viena, Áustria : Institute of Computer Graphics and Algorithms, Vienna University of Technology. S. Cawood and M. Fiala (2007), Augmented reality: a practical guide from Pragmatic Bookshelf, ISBN 1934356034. Shneiderman, B., Plaisant, C., Cohen, M., Jacobs, S., Elmqvist, N., Nicholas Diakopoulos, N. (2017). Designing the User Interface: Strategies for Effective Human-Computer Interaction (6th edition), Pearson, ISBN-13: 978-0134380384.