Extended Reality in Universities

Over a century ago, no one would have predicted the rise of extended reality. Now, this technology is likely going to dominate the world of computing and mobile technology. Like most emerging technologies, universities and other higher educational institutions have taken a keen interest in extended reality. As a result, many universities are actively involved in the design, development, and implementation of extended reality technologies.

What is Extended Reality

In a nutshell, extended reality refers to a group of similar technologies that operate in the physical and virtual worlds in different degrees. At the moment, there are three main types of extended reality technologies, which are augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality. Each of these extended reality technologies is used in universities for different purposes.

Uses of Extended Reality in Universities

Extended reality has several uses in an academic environment. Some of its more popular uses are discussed below.

Allows for Specialized Learning

In the last few years, specialization has become essential to human development. Large fields are now divided into small subfields to enable specialization. With extended reality tools, students can be given custom learning content that suits their needs. As a result, students of different capacities are exposed to varying content to ensure maximum comprehension and outcome.

Increases Engagement

When extended reality technologies are deployed in classes, students tend to pay more attention. Research has shown that these sets of technologies keep students engaged in the learning process. For example, first-year medical students pay more attention in class when exposed to virtual human anatomy than when textbooks are used. Similarly, these types of technologies offer the same level of engagement for students that are studying technical fields like engineering.

Additionally, because people have a great affinity for technology, students naturally tend to gravitate towards extended reality technology as they would their smartphones. As a result, students are more likely to spend hours engaging with learning content presented using this type of technology.

Availability of Learning Content

Learning content that is administered through extended reality works across various devices. This advantage is made possible due to cloud computing. As a result, students can access educational content on-demand. Plus, many extended realities learning content are available on mobile devices and personal computers. Therefore, students do not always have to be physically present in class to learn. In the future, advanced courses like medicine and engineering will be taught remotely as extended reality technologies evolve.

Support for Research

For most serious universities, research forms the backbone of development. With extended reality technologies, many new possibilities are available to universities. Using artificial intelligence, researchers can now conduct several advanced studies. For example, exposing students to real space experiences is not possible due to cost and other limitations. Now, NASA offers simulations that inform people how it feels to be in space. In the future, all teachers and students will have access to such resources. Ultimately, this development will support research. It will also create lead to discoveries.

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