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We believe in building inclusive learning communities
Problem
International students can face many socio-cultural challenges and language barriers when they relocate to attend university . They often have few acquaintances , little to no support network and limited guidance to help them connect socially as they establish themselves .
Project
My First Day : An Empathy Project helps first-year international students find a sense of belonging at university . It is an immersive 360-degree virtual reality experience that fosters empathy between international and domestic students at UNSW .
My First Day helps students develop the confidence to get to know peers from different social groups . It facilitates reflections on how we relate to one another and how these choices impact our own and other people ’ s sense of belonging .
It encourages students to listen and hold space for one another without judgement . Building a shared understanding of our respective social challenges makes for a richer , more inclusive university experience .
Fig 5 . Original artwork concept by UNSW Design alumna , Patience Loh .
The user navigates a range of interactive social situations that simulate their first day at UNSW . The branching narrative changes based on each user ’ s choices . For example , you arrive late for your first lecture – you didn ’ t anticipate the size of the campus . Do you sit down quietly , sit down quickly , sit down confidently or wait for a better time ?
UNIVERSITY INITIATIVES 15