This course mixes virtual reality theory, history, and practice. We will read a wide range of scholarship, manifestoes, and memoirs that examine virtual reality and other immersive technologies, stretching from the 18th century to today. We will explore virtual reality projects, including narrative and documentary films, commercial applications, and games. We will work with many of the virtual reality systems available today (as well as some that are obsolete). And finally, we will learn the basics of creating virtual reality, making fully immersive 3-D, 360-degree films with geospatial soundscapes. In the second part of the class, we will take what we have learned out of the classroom, working with Philadelphia organizations to make collaborative documentaries about the experience of refugees who have been resettled in the US. This is an ABSC - Academically Based Community Service course offered in partnership with Penn’s Netter Center. No previous knowledge of VR or experience is necessary. Interested students can email to the instructor, Prof. Peter Decherney.