Abstract
Waylight is a digital learning platform that reimagines how we explore the life of Jesus through maps, movement, and meaningful interaction. Designed to bridge the gap between static Bible study tools and the physical settings of Scripture, the platform allows users to follow curated journeys such as Miracles or Timelines across ancient Israel. The project began with experimental designs using three-dimensional terrain and literal religious symbols. These early versions lacked cohesion and felt visually heavy. As the work progressed, the design shifted toward a more refined two-dimensional aesthetic inspired by textures like layered paper and the craft of carpentry. This direction maintained a sense of warmth and symbolism while supporting a clean, modern interface. The final map was built in Illustrator and prototyped in Figma, focusing on clarity, structure, and spatial storytelling. Each location on the map includes a modular content card with selected Scripture, contextual background, and optional reflections. The interface is designed to be accessible and calm, using a neutral color palette, clear typography, and thoughtful pacing to support users across a wide range of ages and learning styles. Public feedback at Imagine RIT confirmed the system’s educational value and cross-generational appeal. Visitors expressed interest in using it for personal study, youth groups, and classrooms. The long-term vision for Waylight is to expand beyond the life of Jesus to include both Old and New Testament journeys. Future development could add devotionals, quizzes, and study guides. While artificial intelligence supported early research and prototyping, final content would be created by pastors, historians, theologians, and educators to ensure accuracy and depth. Waylight demonstrates how visual communication and interaction design can support meaningful engagement with Scripture through a clear and spatially organized experience.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Jesus Christ--Biography--Interactive multimedia--Design; Bible--Geography--Interactive multimedia--Design; Christian education--Audio-visual aids--Design
Publication Date
5-4-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Student Type
Graduate
Degree Name
Visual Communication Design (MFA)
Department, Program, or Center
Design, School of
College
College of Art and Design
Advisor
Mike Strobert
Advisor/Committee Member
Daniel DeLuna
Recommended Citation
Woerle, Emma, "Waylight: Mapping the Journey of Faith" (2025). Thesis. Rochester Institute of Technology. Accessed from
https://repository.rit.edu/theses/12146
Dashboard mock up
erw imagine video copy.mp4 (503422 kB)
erw imagine video
journey mock up.png (25998 kB)
journey mock up
location card.png (1877 kB)
location card
Location Cards.pdf (4526 kB)
location cards
Main Map.png (9239 kB)
main map
Miracles Journey.pdf (2450 kB)
Miracles Journey
miracles walk through.mp4 (180070 kB)
miracles walk through
Teachings Journey.pdf (2326 kB)
Teachings Journey
Campus
RIT – Main Campus
Plan Codes
VISCOM-MFA