THESIS

Master of Arts in Art and Design | Kennesaw State University 2024

You [AR]e Safe

Project Synopsis

High school students will utilize Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Dimension, and Adobe Aero (defunct as of December 2025) to create an augmented reality “safe space/happy place” in the form of virtual fairy doors or mouse houses. This project embraces social and emotional learning, which provides students with tools to express their emotions, develop empathy, and strengthen their sense of belonging within the school community.

Social and emotional learning (SEL) and social competence is crucial for the holistic development of high school students. It equips them with essential life skills. By utilizing the Adobe Creative Suite, and journaling students have the opportunity to explore and develop these skills.

Instructonal Materials

Reflective Journaling

I was inspired to create this project, because I noticed the communication between my students had decreased since the pandemic. This community art will be done in hopes of students not only visually seeing how they have grown, but also inwardly and communicatively”.

Thesis Reflection

I thoroughly enjoyed developing this project as my thesis. Bringing together augmented reality, digital design, and social-emotional learning allowed me to explore the powerful intersection of creativity and student well-being. Seeing how technology can support emotional expression and belonging made this work both meaningful and deeply fulfilling.

Research Assistant Reflection

In addition to my thesis, my time as a research assistant on a separate project was equally rewarding. I gained valuable experience in data collection, analysis, and collaborative problem-solving while contributing to work that expands our understanding of learning and development. This role strengthened my research skills and deepened my passion for innovative, student-centered education. Thank you to Dr. R. Garner for selecting me—it was truly a pleasure.