Cornell University: Sociology department unveils new augmented reality window

The Department of Sociology has redesigned a glass case on the third floor of Uris Hall with Augmented Reality (AR) to represent the wide field of sociology. The redesign was a collaborative exploration involving student researchers, staff and faculty.

“I have always loved these kinds of small recess spaces, reserved for showcasing a department’s contributions to the University and science in general,” said Benjamin Cornwell, professor and chair of sociology. “But we have never figured out how to use ours. The goal ultimately was to describe the breadth and scope of the sociology department’s research.”

The redesign was led by Paulina Velazquez Solis, a visual artist who works as a communication and programming assistant for the sociology department. The installation was conceived as a multistage project, with a physical component and an AR experience. Two sociology students – Chukwudumebi Obi ‘23 and Carolyn Chun ’22 – helped design of the installation.