During the Fall 2017 Semester, two separate courses (Contemporary Issues in Computer Science taught by Stu Hirschfield & Economics of Technology and Innovation taught by Chris Georges) at Hamilton will be exploring how to successfully supplement classroom study with an experience of the technology under discussion. The challenge for the Research & Instructional Design team is providing instruction to many students in a limited amount of class time. In total, 70+ students will experience 3D technologies as related to their subject of study. This will be accomplished through two modes: 1) one course (50 students in Computer Science) will focus on using VR and will work with our teams’ course support student interns to access the HTC Vive in one-on-one appointments, 2) the other course (20 students in Economics) will explore 3D technology more broadly (VR, AR, 3D scanning and printing) in several small groups with a professional staff member and student interns on hand. The Instructional Support Leads hope to determine best practices in bringing VR and other 3D experiences to groups, and to evaluate the individual vs the group experience (including one tech vs multi-tech experiences).

Instruction will be provided through two modes: 1) one course (50 students in Computer Science) will focus on using VR and will work with our teams’ course support student interns to access the HTC Vive in one-on-one appointments, 2) the other course (20 students in Economics) will explore 3D technology more broadly (VR with the HTC VIVE, AR, 3D scanning and printing) in several small groups with a professional staff member and student interns on hand.  

We will gather assessment information via a student feedback survey and through a debrief with the faculty members, professional staff, and student interns.

Goals and objectives:

• Research team members will determine best practices in bringing VR and other 3D experiences to a classroom setting;
• Research team members will evaluate the individual vs group experience (including one tech vs multi-tech experiences).

NEW: In the Spring 2018 Semester, we will be using the VIVE for Visiting Assistant Professor of Biology Jessica Fellmeth’s Anatomy lab course, enabling students to see and interact with the internal organs they’re studying.