Metaverse Foundations and Entry Strategies

This unit introduces core definitions, industry viewpoints, and practical ways to enter and advance in the metaverse. Students analyze contemporary debates about the metaverse’s longevity and learn the three primary flavors of user engagement to prepare for technical design and development in subsequent units.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze definitions and core components of the metaverse to differentiate immersive platforms, social layers, and economic systems
• Evaluate perspectives from metaverse industry leaders (e.g., Cathy Hackl, Dirk Lueth, Tommaso Di Bartolo, John Arkontaky, Yat Siu) to identify common themes, opportunities, and challenges for developers and organizations
• Evaluate entry and advancement strategies for individuals and organizations and recommend appropriate pathways based on goals, resources, and risk tolerance
• Apply the three flavors of user engagement to categorize user needs and propose engagement strategies for design and business models