3walls immersive room
The Size of the Immersive Space
A large part of the change in perception of what a different kind of lesson should look like stems not only from projection screens and interactivity but from a different understanding of the learning environment. Therefore, the room is composed of two parts: a projection area and a seating area for students, which focuses on group work. The balance between the time students work in groups on tasks around the table and the virtual space of the projection with interaction will determine the success of the activities in the room.
What is the ideal size for the room? 7 meters wide and 7-9 meters long. This is the room shown in the picture, where the side screens can be opened wide enough for students to see the presentation from the other side of the room. Additionally, it will allow for the creation of 6-7 workstations for students.
The Projection
Screens – We are building the three walls from drywall. Each wing measures 3.60 meters wide and 2.50 meters high. It’s important to understand that the aspect ratio for projection is 16:9, so the construction must be in accordance with this. This is why the central screen cannot be wider than 3.60 meters if the ceiling is not high (due to the aspect ratio). Therefore, the shape of the projection area is somewhat like a half hexagon.
Projectors – We cannot use the simplest and cheapest projectors because their throw ratio does not allow for installation close to the screens. If we install the projector far from the screen, there will be shading, and students will not be able to approach the screens, thus hindering interaction. The term “throw ratio” refers to the ratio between the distance from the screen and the size of the projected image. For our purposes, we need a ratio of 1:0.5 to 1:0.25. This requirement increases the cost of the projectors.
Computer
A computer with a good i7 processor, substantial memory, etc. is recommended. The most important component is a dedicated video card that supports at least 4 HDMI ports. The computer should be kept in a locked cabinet with the other AV equipment, including charging stations for laptops and tablets.
Equipment for Students
The interaction and engagement of students in learning is not only a result of the touch technology on the walls, but a combination of tasks performed on tablets around the tables. Therefore, in our rooms we recommend purchasing tablets at a ratio of one tablet for every three students.
3walls software was developed by us and consists of:
Lesson Library
A website that is actually a content library with lesson “cards” similar to the way videos are presented on YouTube, Netflix, etc…
What is a lesson?
A series of segments composed of images, videos, web pages
A regular segment includes 3 screens – right/middle/left – and in each one you can insert an image/video/web address
A panoramic segment currently includes a panoramic image and in the future will include video and web addresses.