At the Immersive Realities Center at Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, schools and SMEs can learn about augmented and virtual reality technologies and realise projects together with experts. The first Augmented & Virtual Reality major was also launched.
Although virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are being used in more and more sectors, many SMEs and (vocational) schools are still unsure of the added value these technologies offer. The question arises as to whether such investments are worthwhile. The new Immersive Realities Center (IRC) at the Department of Computer Science at Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Zug-Rotkreuz would like to offer access to the new technologies and specific advice via its centre. SMEs can also realise their projects together with employees of the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts and use the infrastructure of the Immersive Realities Center.
Added value and fun
"With the centre, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts is providing a low-threshold offer for companies and educational institutions from the region," says Stephanie Werder, IRC Co-Head ad interim. "Here they can get to know AR and VR, receive advice from the members of our Immersive Realities Research Lab team and realise projects together with them." Such projects include virtual training environments where SME employees can familiarise themselves with new work processes on complex machines in a safe environment.
IRC co-director Antonio Russo also sees great potential for the use of AR and VR in schools and vocational colleges. The functioning of human organs or complex processes such as electrical circuits can be taught in a more vivid and lively way than with conventional learning materials: "The two technologies offer users a new form of interaction. For example, when objects can be viewed from all sides through VR glasses and are close enough to touch, it's not just a different experience, it's also fun."
The Immersive Realities Centre is also set to become a meeting place and networking hub for people interested in AR and VR.
New specialisation in augmented and virtual reality
Augmented and virtual reality are also becoming more important in education at the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts: the major in Augmented & Virtual Reality will start in the autumn semester of 2021 at the Department of Computer Science. As part of the Bachelor's degree programme in Computer Science, students can attend eight specialisation and extension modules in which, among other things, the technical basics of AR and VR as well as user guidance in virtual environments are taught. The practical part of the course takes place in specially equipped rooms at the Immersive Realities Centre.
Source: MM
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