Building the Future of Immersive Learning with Extended & Virtual Reality
A New Kind of Classroom
What happens when you combine some of the best minds in academia with a Hollywood-level production studio? You get the University of Michigan’s Center for Academic Innovation.
They’re not just building online courses; they’re building immersive experiences that take learning far beyond the traditional classroom. We had the chance to go behind the scenes with the team to see how they’re taking ideas and making them into something amazing that scales.
The Rise of Immersive Learning
For years, some of the most complex concepts -from chemical bonds to architectural design— have been taught in two dimensions. But what if you could actually step inside the lesson? That’s the promise of immersive learning. This isn't just about a cooler way to study; it's about a more effective way to learn, train, and succeed.
The best part? It works. In fact, a PwC study found that learners in these immersive environments were 3.75 times more confident to apply their skills after training. It’s an emotional gut check that gives students the guts to tackle real-world challenges.
From Hollywood to Higher Ed: The XR Studio
Inspired by the stunning visual work of shows like The Mandalorian, the team at the Center of Academic Innovation recognized the power of virtual production. They saw an opportunity to bring the same cutting-edge technology—giant LED walls that can project any environment in real-time—from the film set to the lecture hall. This studio is a living lab for experimentation, proving that the future of learning isn't just about what you teach, but HOW you teach it.
Real-World Stories, Real-World Impact
The true measure of innovation is its application. The U of M team is already proving the concept with incredible results, these are giving students the confidence and real-world experience they need to succeed:
- For nursing students, mixed reality simulations allow them to practice critical procedural skills as many times as they need to feel comfortable.
- For architecture students, a VR experience takes them on a virtual tour of a construction site, teaching them about different building materials in a safe and engaging environment.
The Future is Here (And Today) !
The work at the University of Michigan is more than a peek into the future of education - it's watching the future unfold in front of us. Their commitment to experimentation and innovation is a powerful statement about how empowering creative teams can unlock entirely new ways to learn.
Claire Strom | Program Marketing Lead
As the program marketing lead, she's the one who keeps Cheqroom's vision and our customers' needs in sync. She loves bringing new features to life and telling the world about the magic of how Cheqroom keeps work in motion.
Whether she is behind the scenes crafting a new strategy or in front of the camera sharing our customers' stories, her mission is to turn equipment operations into a superpower, one story at a time.
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