Maths and Geography pupils got up close and personal today with cutting edge technology at Hull Immersive Virtual Environment (HIVE), at the University of Hull.
Students were treated to a demonstration of 3D technology at the computing research hub, including the very first trial of a new piece of equipment – a virtual environment developed as a training programme for engineers and operators working with off-shore wind turbines.
Emma-Jane Alexander, from the department of Computer Science, led the session and showed students how, with special 3D glasses and tracking markers, it is possible to walk around a 3D object as if it is real.
Such simulations can be used in industry, but are often used to enable university students to view something that is normally very small on a large scale and to see inside it – such as a small skull or a complex structure of molecules.
They also had the chance to experience operating a crane via The Cube – a 3D virtual off-shore wind turbine site, designed to enable engineers and operators to practise vital manual and communications skills before they start work on a real off-shore site.
After their introduction to a 3D virtual world, it was then time to explore the campus with Student Ambassadors from the university.
Rory and Amber took two groups on a tour and showed them everything from lecture theatres to the campus shop to cafes.
Maths teacher and Business Champion, Mrs Shaw, felt the trip had been worthwhile from an academic and a careers point of view.
She said, “HIVE makes computer science exciting even for children who aren’t normally enthusiastic about it. Most of our students have seen a film in 3D, so to look at the different ways 3D and virtual reality can be used for industry and education is very relevant to them.
“In addition, we had great feedback from students who went on the university tour. Some had never even considered university before, yet after their visit felt it was something they definitely wanted to do.”