Characteristics of learning in an immersive space

Principles for Integrating Visuals, Student Activation and Interactions in Immersive Learning

Learning in Immersive Spaces

Activities and classes held in immersive spaces like 3walls should leverage the unique capabilities of these environments. Without integrating immersive elements, there is little justification for hosting the activity in an immersive space rather than a traditional classroom. Therefore, instructors should consider in advance how they can incorporate immersive characteristics into the activity to enable immersive learning.

The key characteristics of immersive learning include:

– Interactive 3D visuals that allow for manipulation of digital objects

– Ability for participants to explore the space and content 

– Multi-user collaboration in real time

– Spatial audio for enhanced sense of presence 

An activity doesn’t need to maximize all of these characteristics, but should integrate them to create an experience not possible in a regular classroom. With planning, instructors can unlock the full potential of immersive spaces for more engaging, memorable and effective immersive learning. The immersive capabilities allow for new forms of immersive learning that go beyond traditional methods. Ultimately the goal is to leverage the space to create an optimal immersive learning experience.

 

Immersive Visuals in 3walls

The three-walled projection system in 3walls allows us to immerse participants in another place or time. While a seamless 360-degree panoramic projection can be impactful, it is not required to create an immersive experience conducive to immersive learning. More modular visuals stitched together across the three walls can also transport viewers. For example, projected scenes of an Ethiopian village generated with Midjourney, a designer’s visualization of an Assyrian Museum based on research, or a triptych of videos capturing Rabin Square a week after the assassination. The key is crafting visuals, through CG art and video, that surround the participants and make them feel present in the environment. With thoughtful visual design and the expanded canvas of 3walls, instructors can create engaging learning experiences that go beyond the constraints of traditional classrooms. The immersion draws students in, focuses attention, and creates lasting memories.

Activating Participants in Immersive Spaces

Effective immersive learning in an immersive space like 3walls relies on active participation from students working collaboratively. Rather than passively observing, each group should have hands-on tasks tied to the immersive visuals projected on the walls. These activities can be presented on paper handouts or through interactive apps like Genially and Quizziz. For example, students could record impressions in a digital travel album describing a journey shown on the walls. Or they might answer quiz questions about the Dead Sea and Judean Desert while immersed in those environments. The key is designing experiences where students learn by doing, interacting with the space and each other. This transforms the immersive environment into more than just a visual aid, but an integral part of an engaging immersive learning activity. The unique spatial setup allows for collaboration and kinesthetic immersive learning not possible in a traditional classroom.

Interactive Boards in Immersive Spaces

A third key characteristic of immersive spaces is interactivity of the projected boards. While touchscreens allow hands-on interactivity, immersive spaces require a different approach. At 3walls, we leverage augmented reality technology so information can be overlaid on elements in the projection space. Rather than touch, interactivity happens by recognizing images with phones or tablets. This triggers pop-up content including text, images, or video. By using AR apps, the projected boards come alive with interactive information layered on top of the visuals. Participants point devices at certain prompts to uncover deeper information and multimedia. This creates a dynamic immersive learning experience within the immersive environment. The space transforms into an interactive playground for discovery and immersive learning, rather than passive consumption. With planning, instructors can design interactive prompts that encourage engagement and bring the material to life.

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