Cutting Edge Virtual Reality Classrooms Open at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China

NINGBO, China–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC), has officially launched its ‘V-ROOM’. The first interactive learning laboratory created by the university, the lab aims to create a more interactive and engaging teaching environment through cutting-edge virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technology while also strengthening students’ situational learning abilities and long-term memory formation.

The V-ROOM laboratory boasts extensive equipment that supports and enables a number of advanced virtual reality experiences such as a free walking large space, human-computer interaction, multi-person real-time interaction, 360-degree panoramic virtual classrooms along with other virtual reality experiences. A key to opening the door to digital learning, UNNC believes that technology should not determine pedagogy but extend it in a meaningful way.

As a benchmark project for the digital transformation of teaching and learning at UNNC, the V-ROOM lab underscores the university’s commitment to developing students’ future skills and for enhancing the learning experience of students.

Dr Sannia Mareta, the head of the laboratory said: “the V-ROOM lab allows students to collaborate and explore with each other in an immersive environment, break down the barriers of time and space, and to truly learn by experiencing.” The lab has created more than ten VR/AR pilot learning programmes so far, including aircraft investigations, language learning, automated warehouse management and others. It has been found that in virtual reality scenarios, students are able to learn more actively, create a deeper understanding, and remember for longer periods of time, with simulated operations, allowing them to truly grasp studies concepts and consolidate deep long-term memories on the subject.

With the current generation of students largely born in the ‘information age’ and considered to be ‘digital natives’, UNNC has examined what the future of learning looks like and how best to provide an excellent teaching and learning experience for students. Through embracing the VR trend and redefining teaching and learning, UNNC leads the way for the digital transformation of education.