Student virtual reality project showcased in Japan

Bachelor of Design (Digital Media) students recently presented their virtual reality application Dyslexic City at the Asia Pacific Dyslexia Festival 2017 in Tokyo, Japan.

The two-day event was organised by the Japan Dyslexia Society EDGE to raise awareness about dyslexia in Japan and to expand the support network among Asian countries.

The students were invited by event organisers to present Dyslexic City, an app which simulates the difficulties faced by dyslexic people in recognising street signs and finding directions.

Project leader Phan Hoang Thai Chau was thrilled with the feedback received from participants who appreciated the team’s novel perspective.

“When thinking about helping dyslexic people, you should try to walk in their shoes,” Chau noted.

“Although this app doesn’t directly help dyslexic people, I think it still does help in a way as it lets people who don’t have this difficulty understand and empathise with people who do have it.”



The students have spent more than half a year working together to set up their mission and develop the application. All of them agree that it has finally paid off.

Vo Thi Bich Phuong, the app’s illustrator, shared that the presentation was beneficial for her.

“It was a good experience for me, especially when I am graduating next year,” Phuong said.

“The technology is very new [even for Japanese people], so my involvement in the project is good for my portfolio as well.”

Mai Thanh Hai, who was in charge of game play and interaction, agreed with Phuong.

“It’s definitely worth taking part in the development of Dyslexic City,” Hai said, adding “It helped me realise the ability to code.”



Chau is now preparing for her graduation at the end of this month at RMIT Vietnam’s Saigon South campus, while Phuong and Hai have a few more semesters to go. All of them, however, feel that they are well prepared for the careers ahead of them thanks to the practical experience of working on this emerging technology.

Story: Hoang Ha