OVERVIEW
Revolutionizing the educational landscape at the university by providing immersive, interactive, and engaging learning experiences for students.
CONTEXT
The University of Houston's LeARning Lab is an innovative initiative aimed at revolutionizing education by integrating Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies into the university's curricula. Launched to provide immersive, interactive, and engaging learning experiences, the LeARning Lab seeks to equip faculty with the necessary resources and training, promote interdisciplinary collaboration, enhance student learning, and establish UH as a leader in AR/VR educational innovation.
ROLE
VR Developer
Digital Media Strategist
DURATION
9 months
PROGRAMS
Adobe Creative Suite | Unity | Blender | Maya | Engage | GitHub | Many More!
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About
As a VR Developer and Digital Media Strategist at the University of Houston's LeARning Lab, I played a pivotal role in launching and developing this pioneering initiative. The LeARning Lab aims to integrate AR and VR technologies into the university's curricula, providing immersive and engaging learning experiences for students.
Objectives
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Resource Provision: Equip faculty with resources and training on AR/VR integration.
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Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Foster collaboration among various departments for AR/VR solutions.
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Enhanced Learning: Enhance student learning through interactive course content.
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Leadership in Innovation: Position UH as a leader in AR/VR integration in higher education.
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My Role
Initial Phase: Digital Media Strategy
Team Leadership: Led a team to create the LeARning Lab’s website, logo, 3D avatars, and promotional posters.
Digital Media Production: Oversaw the creation of digital assets to establish the lab’s brand and presence.
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Development and Research
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Weekly Meetings: Attended and contributed to meetings with faculty members Tony Liao, Leslie Coward, and Justin Burris.
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Faculty Collaboration: Met with professors to understand their visions for VR integration, took detailed notes, and addressed questions regarding VR limitations.
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Continuous Learning: Researched new software and met with industry leaders, such as Meta, to stay updated on the latest VR technologies.
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Problem-Solving: Developed solutions to VR-related challenges and ensured smooth implementation.
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Project Highlights
Geometry Lecture in Engage
Scripted, produced, edited, and animated a 3D geometry lecture taught by Dr. Justin Burris in Engage. This lecture, set on a construction site, utilized real-life shape examples to enhance understanding.
Classroom Builder Game Development:
Contributed to creating a classroom builder game for the education department, providing demos and managing equipment. The game was developed to help aspiring teachers practice decorating and furnishing the interior of their classrooms to optimize productivity and learning effectiveness.
Feature on University Website:
Our work was recognized and featured on the University of Houston’s website, showcasing the impact and innovation of the LeARning Lab.
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Conclusion
My role at the LeARning Lab was a transformative experience that allowed me to blend my skills in VR development and digital media strategy to push the boundaries of educational innovation. Leading the creation of digital assets, collaborating with faculty, and developing immersive learning experiences were highly fulfilling and have prepared me for future impactful projects in the field of AR/VR technology in education.
Results and Impact
Increased Engagement: Successfully engaged faculty and students with immersive AR/VR learning experiences.
Positive Feedback: Received commendations for the innovative approach to education and the quality of digital content produced.
Enhanced Learning Experience: Improved the educational experience by making complex concepts more accessible and engaging through VR.
Key Learnings
Delegation and Leadership: Honed skills in delegating tasks and leading a team to achieve project goals.
Adaptability: Learned to adapt quickly to new technologies and methodologies to solve VR challenges.
Communication: Enhanced communication skills by effectively collaborating with faculty and addressing their needs.
Continuous Improvement: Emphasized the importance of continuous learning and applying digital media knowledge in a practical, impactful manner.