Engineering Laboratory Instruction in Immersive Virtual Environment (ENLIIVEN)

Old Dominion University Research Foundation, Norfolk VA

Investigators

Abstract

The goal of this project is to develop and use virtual reality (VR) laboratories to emulate the learning environment of physical laboratories, while preserving the three dimensionality, immersion, interactivity and hands-on data acquisition features of physical experiments. The project team is developing the physical-to-virtual transformation methodology, integrating VR experiments in the supplementation and stand-alone modes for laboratory instruction and the embedded mode in lecture courses, and incorporating devices (such as 3-D mice, data gloves) for human-computer interfaces. The combination of VR based practice sessions and physical experiment sessions provides students hands-on experience in both physical and virtual domains. The pedagogical results and lessons learned from this project are disseminated through a workshop to community colleges in Virginia and a website hosting the teaching modules and project results for distribution to 4-year and 2-year colleges.