Perception & Projection – Advanced Optics and Visual Technologies

Program Overview

Step inside the future of visual systems and STEM design.

In this VCE-level STEM experience, students investigate how principles of physics, engineering, and digital media come together to create immersive visual environments. From laser arrays to projection optics and the mechanics of perception, this excursion links directly to Units 1–4 of VCE Physics, Systems Engineering, Applied Computing, and Media.

Students are challenged to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical context — critically evaluating energy transfer, wave behaviour, system design and user experience. Perfect for high-achieving students exploring STEM pathways or engaging in SATs, folios, or major works.

Key Focus Areas:

  • Polarisation and wave interference

  • Laser projection and lens-based system analysis

  • Human visual processing and cognitive illusion

  • Green screen engineering and digital compositing

  • Perception vs. reality in immersive system design

  • STEM careers in optics, projection, and design technologies

What to Expect

Students will rotate through:

  • 💡 Optical Systems Analysis – Explore the laser/projector/polarisation chain in detail

  • 🧠 Visual Cognition & Design – Study how timing, contrast, and positioning affect the illusion

  • 📸 Production Engineering – Work with green screen techniques and layered depth

Each rotation includes guided breakdowns, technical visuals, and real-world equipment exposure.

  • Create annotated ray diagrams or energy flow schematics

  • Write a comparative evaluation of projection-based illusions

  • Propose an immersive visual system for science communication, design, or education

  • Extend into media folio or Systems SAT context

Year Level
Year 11 / Year 12

Duration
75–90 minutes

Content
One selected experience (Australia, Arctic, Asia, Africa, Dinosaurs, or Space)

Sample Itinerary

Morning

9:30 AM – Arrival and Introduction
9:45 AM – 11:15 AM – Rotating Group Activities:
   Students rotate through 3 sessions in smaller groups:

  • Guided Hologram Zoo Exploration  (35 minutes. Max groups of 14 students in 9 minute starting blocks)

  • Creative / Observation Activity (led by school staff)

  • Green Screen Photo Investigation

   Each group spends approximately 25–30 minutes in each activity. Groups rotate every 10 minutes in staggered pairs to maintain flow.

11:15 AM – Wrap-Up and Departure

 

Afternoon

12:30 PM – Arrival and Introduction
12:45 PM – 2:15 PM – Rotating Group Activities:
    Students rotate through 3 sessions in smaller groups:

  • Guided Hologram Zoo Exploration (35 minutes. Max groups of 14 students in 9 minute starting blocks)

  • Creative / Observation Activity (led by school staff)

  • Green Screen Photo Investigation

    Each group spends approximately 25–30 minutes in each activity. Groups rotate every 10 minutes in staggered pairs to maintain flow.

2:15 PM – Wrap-Up and Departure

Curriculum Links (Victorian Curriculum – VCE Units 1–4)

  • Physics Unit 2 (AOS1) – Motion and force

  • Physics Unit 4 (AOS2) – Behaviour of light and wave models

  • Systems Engineering Unit 3 (AOS2) – Controlled systems and energy flow

  • Systems Engineering Unit 4 (AOS1) – Iterative system design

  • Applied Computing – Visualisation and interaction design

  • VCE Media – Representation, audience engagement, and visual technologies

Teaching Guide