Designing tomorrow’s interactions with artificial realities

Students learn to develop and critically evaluate interactive systems that combine extended reality, human-centred design and advances in AI design tools.

The Master’s Programme in Interaction Design for Artificial Realities responds to a shift in how people engage with technology. “Over the past few years, we have seen a rapid transformation in how people interact with digital systems,” says Jordi Solsona Belenguer, programme coordinator for the new programme.

Technologies such as virtual, augmented and mixed reality, combined with the rise of generative AI are changing how we design, communicate and learn.

“We already had a strong foundation through the previous Master’s Programme in Design for Creative and Immersive Technology, that gave us the experience and feedback. But we felt it was time to take the next step, to integrate design, AI and emerging technologies into a programme that also invites critical reflection and research,” says Jordi Solsona Belenguer.

Combining design and technology

The programme merges two tracks, interaction design and technologies for artificial realities, to give students both creative and technical skills.

“We are at a moment when the boundaries between the digital and the physical are dissolving. Artificial realities and AI are no longer futuristic concepts, they are part of everyday life, from education and art to healthcare and entertainment,” Jordi Solsona Belenguer explains.

Artificial realities and AI are no longer futuristic concepts, they are part of everyday life

To design for these environments requires more than technical skill.

“It’s about understanding how they affect people, culture and society. That’s where interaction design becomes crucial. It ensures that these technologies remain meaningful, ethical and human-centred.”

The combination makes it possible to move beyond usability and functionality, and to instead use design experiences that are expressive, inclusive and transformative.

Research, reflection and making

Students start with fundamentals in interaction design methods, data-driven thinking and programming. As they progress, they take on advanced projects in XR and AI-assisted design, often in collaboration with researchers or external partners.

“Throughout, they learn to balance creativity with analytical depth and to connect technological innovation with ethical and societal reflection.”

Each student completes the programme with a master’s thesis that will include a working prototype or a study demonstrating both research and creative originality.

A place for hands-on exploration

The programme is closely linked to the Extrality Lab, which plays a key role in teaching and experimentation.

“The Extrality Lab is the heart of the programme, a hands-on research and teaching environment, that unites fabrication, tangible interaction and extended reality technologies,” says Jordi Solsona Belenguer.

The Extrality Lab is the heart of the programme

Students have access to a comprehensive collection of tools, such as VR/AR/MR devices, motion tracking systems, high-performance media production computers, 3D printers, laser cutters, electronic workstations, rapid prototyping tools, Arduinos, sensors, actuators and more.

“It is a space for experimentation and collaboration, where students can turn concepts into functional prototypes, explore embodied interaction and develop immersive experiences that blend physical and digital realities.”

Pathways forward

Graduates from the programme will be prepared for  both industry and academia. Many will move into numerous roles, such as interaction designer/UX designer in AI or XR contexts, XR Developer/experience designer, creative technologist, design researcher, AI interaction specialist or product designer in tech, media or education sectors.

“Others may choose to continue into doctoral studies in human–computer interaction, interaction design or AI-related fields,” says Jordi Solsona Belenguer.

If you could design any experience in artificial or extended reality, with no limits, what would it be?

“I would continue exploring what we are already doing at DSV, using art as a way to experience and understand new technologies,” says Jordi Solsona Belenguer.

I’d love to keep developing that intersection between art, performance and interaction design

“In our current collaborations with Kulturhuset Stadsteatern, Ericsson Research and professional artists, we are co-designing performances that merge human expression with XR and AI. For me, the most exciting ‘artificial reality’ is one that connects technology and creativity, where people can experience technology not just as a tool, but as an artistic medium that moves, challenges and inspires. I’d love to keep developing that intersection between art, performance and interaction design,” concludes Jordi Solsona Belenguer.

Text: Carina Bergholm