Skip To Main Content

Theme Park Design and Development

From Disneyland to the Smithsonian, themed attractions are preferred recreation destinations for people all over the world and part of our social fabric. Students will explore the history and development of theme parks, investigate their creative engineering and design, discuss the sociological impact of theme parks, and examine and apply the elements of visual storytelling. Through design, development, and creation, students will become proficient with such programs as Photoshop, iMovie, Garage Band, CAD and Modeling Software, and others to create multi-media designs and models that express their creativity, originality, imagination, and communication skills through the design process. Students will be required to explore and experiment with available media technology and to integrate technology with more traditional creative expressions to convey their ideas for stories and attractions. Students will apply their creativity and problem solving skills in this project-based learning environment; projects include the investigation of specific theme parks, designing an attraction (roller coaster, interactive experience, etc.), and immersive storytelling. The class also includes guest lectures from working professionals and field trips to theme parks and design studios.

Further Learning:

Amusement Park Physics

Disney Imaginations

Disney Youth Educational Programs

Universal Studios Educational Programs