AR/VR in the Higher Ed Classroom
This cluster will explore the transformative potential of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) as innovative educational tools in the undergraduate classroom. The cluster and its participants will explore how AR/VR is already being used in the SMU curriculum across disciplines to achieve learning outcomes, facilitate dynamic teaching, and foster collaborative and immersive learning experiences. The cluster also provides an opportunity to support the development and implementation of cross-disciplinary collaborations that incorporate AR/VR applications in research and in community-based learning projects. As such, the cluster aims to develop best practices and strategies that harness the power of AR/VR to engage students, promote a deeper understanding of complex concepts, uplift diversity and inclusion, and cultivate essential skills for academic and professional success in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.
Fall 2024 Events
Thursday, Sept. 6, 12:30-1:30: General Interest Meeting
Tuesday, November 12, 12:30-1:30, Blanton 112: "Current AR/VR Applications on the SMU Campus: Lightning Talks from Lyle, Perkins, and Simmons." Join us for lunch and a series of informal lightning talks that will provide examples of how AR/VR is currently being used in SMU classrooms.
Panelists:
"360 Virtual Tours for Real Learning," Robert Hunt, Ph.D. (Professor of Christian Mission and Interreligious Relations/Director of Global Theological Education, Perkins)
"Forget the goggles: VR without a headset," Levi Sterling (Senior Academic Technology Service Director, SMU Guildhall)
"VR in University Science Education," Prajakt Pande, Ph.D. (Assistant Professor of Technology-Enhanced Immersive Learning, Simmons)
"Augmented Storytelling: AR/VR in the Humanities," Alyssa Quintanilla, Ph.D. (Assistant Professor of English, United States Naval Academy / 2024-25 David J. Weber Fellow for the Study of Southwestern America, Clements Center for Southwest Studies)
Spring 2025 Events
Thursday, January 30, 12:30-1:30: "Pioneering Language Education with Virtual Reality." Lunch & Learn with Dr. Regina Kaplan-Rakowski (UNT College of Information).
Regina Kaplan-Rakowski is an Assistant Professor of Learning Technologies at the University of North Texas (UNT). She also serves as the Vice President of the Computer Assisted Language Instruction Consortium (CALICO). Dr Kaplan-Rakowski’s key research interests are at the intersection of three areas: immersive learning technologies (e.g., virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality), emotional responses to learning technologies (e.g., immersion, anxiety, engagement), and computer-assisted language learning (CALL). Within CALL, Dr Kaplan-Rakowski studies how practicing various language skills can be facilitated using high-immersion virtual reality, immersive stereoscopic 3D pictures, 360-degree pictures, and other immersive technologies. She serves on the Editorial Board of Educational Technology & Society (ET&S) and the Journal of Technology and Teacher Education (JTATE).