In an era where technology is reshaping the landscape of education, Deakin University stands at the forefront of innovation.
With a $50,000 grant from the Telematics Trust, Deakin has developed a cutting-edge VR-haptics in STEM platform, integrating Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) for immersive experiences, robotics for hands-on learning, and haptics for enhanced sensory feedback in virtual environments. This initiative seamlessly aligns with the Telematics Trust's mission to promote technology-based education and training in Victoria.
Empowering Youth Through Remote Robotics
While virtual reality (VR) and haptics technologies have seen widespread use in industry training and higher education, their application in school learning remains largely unexplored. Recognising the significant gap in traditional education, particularly in rural and remote areas, Deakin University embarked on a transformative journey to integrate innovative technologies into the learning process. Leveraging a cutting-edge array of technology, including virtual reality (VR), haptics, and robotics, the university aimed to revolutionise STEM education. Collaborating closely with educators and researchers, Deakin's project seeks to pioneer the application of VR-haptics platforms in science classrooms. Through this initiative, Deakin University envisions a future where students are empowered to engage in experiential learning, fostering inclusivity, equity and excellence in education.
Overcoming Obstacles in VR-Haptics Education
The project encountered hurdles exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and limited high-speed internet access at the regional school, shedding light on infrastructure deficiencies in underserved communities. However, despite these separate obstacles, the project gained valuable insights into the transformative power of VR-haptics technology in education. Confirming its efficacy in enhancing STEM learning, the project garnered educator interest and showcased VR-haptics' versatility in addressing diverse educational needs, overcoming initial technical and logistical challenges.
Triumphs & Achievements in Secondary School STEM Integration
Deakin University's pioneering project in integrating haptics technologies into secondary school STEM education, particularly in physics, represents a groundbreaking achievement. Through dynamic collaboration between Deakin's education and engineering researchers and regional school teachers, a cutting-edge VR-haptics platform has been developed. This platform hosts bespoke physics experiments and meticulously crafted lesson plans, demonstrating the viability of VR-haptics integration in secondary school science classrooms. Students have shown heightened engagement and deeper learning, while educators have gained transformative insights into haptics technologies. The project's impact extends beyond classrooms, resonating across the STEM education landscape and sparking discussions on the future of VR-haptics in education. This collective journey enriches the STEM education field, fostering innovation and equitable access to learning opportunities.
Van Van Thanh Huynh, Senior Lecturer in Engineering at Deakin University, said:
“Thanks to the generous support from Telematics Trust, we have been able to bring our innovative research into the regional areas and make a tangible difference to the STEM learning of students in disadvantaged schools. Telematics Trust's commitment to empowering communities through technology has not only bolstered our efforts but has also inspired us to strive for even greater heights of excellence. Their investment has been instrumental in driving positive change, and we are honoured to be a recipient of funding from Telematics Trust. Thank you Telematics Trust for your unwavering dedication to advancing innovation and fostering positive social change.”
Advancing STEM Education with Haptics Integration
Deakin continues its mission to empower vulnerable youth, they remain committed to nurturing a new generation of STEM leaders for a more equitable society. The VR-haptics experiments conducted lay a solid foundation for future developments, showcasing their transformative potential in the classroom. With a commitment to fostering inclusive and accessible learning environments, Deakin University continues to redefine the boundaries of education, empowering students and communities alike.
