By Janice Phelan,
January 15, 2021
The 欧美视频 (UCM) will launch a new course focusing on the
emerging technologies of augmented and virtual reality this spring. The class, is designed for pre-kindergarten through 12th-grade teachers, corporate trainers,
instructional designers and post-secondary educators.
Adult learners completing the course will earn one continuing education unit (CEU)
for professional development credit.
The online, instructor-led course is offered March 29 through April 30 and is taught
by Dr. Lauren Hays, assistant professor of Educational Technology. Hays earned a Ph.D.
in educational leadership from Northwest Nazarene University and has focused her research
on topics such as the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning, digital literacy, information
literacy and educational development.
During November, UCM premiered its Mixed Reality Studio, located at the university鈥檚 Lee鈥檚 Summit campus. The studio鈥檚 goals are to advance
state-of-the-art technology in VR and AR by developing new applications and educating
the next generation of researchers, developers, entrepreneurs and technologists while
collaborating with industry. The facility is equipped with various software and design
platforms, multiple headset configurations, workstations, filming and graphic resources.
Introduction to Augmented and Virtual Reality will be UCM鈥檚 first course focusing
on this growing technology. This instructor-led, engaging class begins with the history
of AR and VR as well as future possibilities. Each module will introduce participants
to examples of how to use augmented and virtual reality in educational settings.
Within educational environments, AR and VR provide numerous opportunities for students
to engage in content, learn concepts, explore faraway places and be creative. Technology
tools explored during the course include ClassVR, Merge Cube, Merge Headset, Google
Cardboard, Microsoft Hololens, Oculus Quest, Magic Leap 2, HTC Vive Trackers, Lightform
LF2 and HTC Vive.
In addition to this spring virtual course, UCM will offer a more advanced face-to-face
course, Using Augmented and Virtual Reality in Education, tentatively planned for
summer 2021. This hands-on course is designed for educators and trainers who have
completed the introductory course as well as individuals with previous experience
in AR and VR instruction. The course will be offered at UCM鈥檚 new Mixed Reality Studio
at the Lee鈥檚 Summit campus with Dr. Lauren Hays serving as instructor. More information
about this course will be available soon.