Research Initiative • Capstone Exploration
Integrated Research Layers
A Multimodal Intervention for International Student Belonging at University of Niagara Falls Canada.
WelcomeAR is a layered, research-led digital intervention designed to reduce early-stage spatial anxiety and support belonging among international students at the University of Niagara Falls Canada.
Rather than operating as an isolated application, WelcomeAR functions as an integrated transition model. Each layer targets a distinct dimension of early-stage adjustment—spatial clarity, emotional reassurance, social participation, and immersive experiential learning.
Together, these layers aim to reduce cognitive load, strengthen environmental comprehension, and foster institutional belonging during the first weeks on campus.
How the Layers Connect
Multimodal Extension Framework
The WelcomeAR framework operates as an integrated transition model. Each layer addresses a distinct cognitive and emotional dimension of early-stage adjustment while functioning interdependently within a unified system.
Rather than progressing sequentially, the layers overlap—spatial clarity supports emotional reassurance, narrative scaffolds reinforce social engagement, and immersive extensions consolidate experiential learning.
Together, they form a digitally augmented transition ecosystem.
01
Spatial Navigation Layer
02
Narrative Layer
03
Social Engagement
04
Immersive Layer
From Framework to Production
Translating research architecture into structured development phases.
03
Technical Development
The How
This phase operationalizes the conceptual and narrative architecture within a high-fidelity simulation environment.
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3D digital replica of selected UNF campus locations (Unity 6)
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Geofenced AR trigger logic and interface prototyping
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BYOD-aligned interaction design (ARCore & ARKit scalability)
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Interactive infographic and podcast production as contextual research artifacts
04
Integration & Reflection
Final Output
The final sprint consolidates system integration, usability validation, and reflective synthesis.
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User Acceptance Testing (UAT) focused on narrative clarity and UI friction
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Refinement of the high-fidelity AR simulation (3–4 POIs)
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Proof-of-Concept evaluation of feasibility and immersion
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Creation of a standalone reflective immersive artifact
01
Research & Foundation
The Why
This phase establishes the qualitative and conceptual foundation of the system, grounding the framework in lived student experience rather than institutional assumption.
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Purposive sampling of recent international students (n = 8)
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Semi-structured interviews focused on early transition anxiety
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Empathy mapping and synthesis of key pain points
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Launch of the Project Website as central research repository
02
Narrative Architecture
The What
Once pain points are identified, this phase translates qualitative insights into structured narrative architecture and interaction design.
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Script development using a modified “Hero’s Journey” model
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Three defined Points of Interest (Entrance, Lounge, Library)
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Peer-to-peer conversational AR dialogue design
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Full AR user journey prototyped and validated in Figma
Layer 01
Visualizing the Framework
Research Infographic
This research infographic translates qualitative interview findings into a structured multimodal journey. It highlights key friction points in early-stage orientation and demonstrates how AR layers can reduce spatial anxiety while strengthening the transition from navigation to belonging.
Scope & Technical Constraints
WelcomeAR is developed as a high-fidelity Proof of Concept within a controlled simulation environment (Unity 6).
The qualitative sample (n = 8) prioritizes depth of narrative insight over statistical generalization.
The prototype operates independently of live GPS deployment; therefore, real-world variables such as signal latency, device variability, and battery performance are acknowledged as external to the current testing scope.
The system includes three to four defined campus Points of Interest to ensure interaction depth rather than full spatial coverage.