Rowan University, in partnership with Dreamscape Learn and Arizona State University (ASU), is undertaking an innovative project to transform education through virtual reality (VR)-enabled learning experiences. The goal is to redefine the classroom by immersing students in virtual environments that enhance their understanding of fundamental concepts using cutting-edge technology.
Through its collaboration with Dreamscape Learn and ASU, Rowan University is at the forefront of revolutionizing education. By licensing their original immersive courseware to other institutions through the Dreamscape Learn platform, Rowan is leading the way in redefining how students learn.
The Dreamscape Learn VR-enabled courseware and instructor platform allow faculty members to send students on immersive academic missions within virtual classrooms. These virtual experiences transport students to extraordinary ecosystems, where they encounter captivating plants and animals, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
One of the main benefits of this approach is the ability to conduct virtual field research. A study conducted by ASU revealed that students who engaged in virtual field research in the Alien Zoo labs were nearly twice as likely to earn an “A” lab grade. This demonstrates the significant potential of virtual reality and gaming as powerful educational tools.
To facilitate this groundbreaking learning experience, Rowan University plans to construct an immersive learning center as part of the ongoing Campbell Library renovation project. The center will include multiple pods, such as a free-roam pod and a classroom pod, equipped with virtual reality headsets, sensors, motion-capture cameras, and haptic technology. These pods will provide an interactive and realistic environment for up to 30 students and two instructors, promoting collaboration and engagement.
The concept of VR-enabled education was created by film producer Walter Parkes and ASU president Michael Crow, who recognized the great potential of merging scientific concepts with a rich fictional world. Dreamscape Learn and ASU seamlessly integrated these elements to develop their first immersive courseware, “Immersive Biology in the Alien Zoo.”
Rowan University takes the lead as the first group of universities in the country to license this groundbreaking technology and curriculum. President Ali A. Houshmand’s commitment to becoming the University of the Future solidifies Rowan’s determination to provide cutting-edge education to its students.
Through its partnership with ASU, Rowan University aims to expand this transformative approach to other institutions, extending the benefits of VR-enabled learning widely. The collaboration seeks to empower educators and revolutionize the way students engage with educational content.
The impact of virtual reality in education is already evident, with over 12,000 students at ASU having completed introductory biology courses incorporating Dreamscape Learn’s “Immersive Biology in the Alien Zoo” lab curriculum since 2022. The integration of haptic technology in both pod versions further enhances the immersive experience, allowing students to feel a sense of touch and deepening their understanding of the subject matter.
As the world rapidly evolves, educational institutions must embrace technological advancements. Rowan University’s pioneering efforts in VR-enabled education position them as a trailblazer in innovative learning. By harnessing the power of virtual reality and gaming, Rowan is creating an educational experience that captures students’ imaginations and propels them towards academic success.
With the implementation of Dreamscape Learn’s immersive courseware and instructor platform, Rowan University is set to transform education by immersing students in captivating worlds that facilitate a deeper understanding of complex concepts. This groundbreaking approach, combined with Rowan’s commitment to being a leading institution in innovative education, ensures that students are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
Rowan University’s partnership with Dreamscape Learn and ASU marks a significant milestone in the evolution of education. By embracing virtual reality and immersive experiences, Rowan is opening doors to a new era of learning, where students can explore, discover, and engage like never before. The future of education is here, and Rowan University is leading the way.
