framework for the implementation of a virtual design studio model in ...

cultural restrictions and time constraints, the Virtual Tour, rather than a ‘Walking Tour’
gives the participants a basic geographic overview of the emirate, looking at specific
zones on which they can observe physically or virtually on the VDS website.
The zones of observation include:-
- The Old Sharjah in the Al Hesan area of the Emirate.
- The City centre of Sharjah.
- The University City in Sharjah.
- The Old Souq.
After the Virtual Tour, the participants will be subject to an informal icebreaker.
After lunch, the group will return to the lecture hall for the Pecha Kucha presentations.
Due to cultural restrictions, the Pecha Kucha presentations will then take place in the
form of pre-prepared films to be viewed by both groups. The Pecha Kucha films are
designed to provide participants with the opportunity for an informal introduction
where each participant is given two minutes to introduce themselves via a pre-prepared
short film.
Following the presentations, the participants will be encouraged to think freely and
poetically with the intention to produce metaphorical, original ideas. At this stage, the
group will be instructed to work in their free time; exploring the nature of their
environment, specifically taking inspiration from this.
The sole aim is to produce innovative and creative ideas for Virtual Design Studio, to
redesign Sharjah. At this point the participants will claim spaces for the production of
models and research, and some will be elected to explore the city, libraries or visit the
computer labs. The participants must form their initial the groups then collect and
synthesize all ideas in preparation for their two minute presentations for the next
session.
Drinks will then be served as an informal way to meet one other and network. Working
relationships will be established here.
Day 2. 17/10/09: 09.30 hrs.
Collaboration & Initial Presentations
The day will begin with a lecture from Randah Taher. The lecture will serve to ‘crush’ the
participants’ ideas, giving a realistic perspective of the possibly ambitious design
concepts initially formed, and will be provided via a video conferencing link, via MSN for
the female/male group. After a short break, another lecture will follow from
Prof/Dr******* who will give the participants a better idea of 3D design technologies
and how to employ these when devising design strategies.
13