MediaArtTutorials

CMST 2ZP3

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Option 1: Cyborg Storytelling using Augmented Reality

Groups of 3–4 students · Research-Creation Project

Project Overview

In this project, you will collaboratively explore the intersection of humans and technology through a cyborg lens, incorporating concepts from retro-futurism and/or BIPOC futurism.

Drawing from your individual research, your group will create a speculative Augmented Reality (AR) storybook that blends analogue and digital media. Each member will contribute a section grounded in critical theory and personal reflection, brought to life using the Pictarize AR platform.

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Index

• W8: Conduct Individual Research

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Software

• Start with the trial version of Pictarize Studio – For augmented reality. For the final project, each group must:
  • Create a shared account
  • Purchase a 1-month subscription (USD $25), divided among members
• Adobe Express – Free collage generator or Microsoft PowerPoint – For moodboard creation.
• Photopea – For image editing.
• Clipchamp (McMaster login) – For video editing.

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Project Components

1. Conduct Individual Research

Each student will choose one theme:

• Cyborg Theory
• Retro-futurism
• BIPOC Futurism
• Technological Influence on Culture

Write a 300–400 word report grounded in:

• 1 academic source
• 2 public sources (e.g., article, talk, podcast, artwork)
• Connect research to identity, technology, and speculative design

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2. Create a Collaborative AR Storybook

Design a cyborg-themed narrative that explores how technology shapes culture, identity, and futures. Includes:

• Analogue + Digital Components:
  • Physical: hand-drawn illustrations, vintage photos, cultural symbols, textile patterns
  • Digital: collages, GIFs, short videos
• Augmented Reality:
  • Use Pictarize Studio to create interactive AR experiences by linking analogue materials to digital layers

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3. Group Self-Assessment

Complete the Self-Assessment Form as a group.
Ensure your responses are thoughtful and critically reflect on your final outcome.

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Project Breakdown

Activity	Focus	Points
Week 8 Activities	Conduct Individual Research	5
Week 9 Activities	Finalize Research Report Brainstorm Project Learn Pictarize	5
Week 10 Activities	Define the Project Finalize Visual Materials Begin Prototyping	5
Week 11 Activities	Implement and Assemble in Pictarize	5
Week 12	Class showcase: work-in-progress projects	5
Final Submission	Final project + deliverables	13
Total Points		38

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