(This article was originally published on July, 31, 2023 by Annie Galvin Teich at https://www.fierceeducation.com/teaching-learning/usc-introduces-hologram-technology-its-digital-creative-lab)
Holograms are no longer just for science fiction. The University of Southern California (USC) recently added hologram technology to their international hub for arts, technology, and business. The university’s dynamic and diverse range of course offerings encourage interdisciplinary study and collaboration creating a highly advanced learning environment where students thrive.
The Digital Creative Lab is a state-of-the-art facility that provides a space for creators to explore and innovate in the digital realm. Thanks to cutting-edge technology and experienced mentors, students can find everything they need to experiment, design, and develop ideas. Students can design their own video games and produce high-quality videos for events. There are 3D printing facilities and digital signage displays for showcasing the latest ideas and content. They also have an NFT Gallery Space to display students digital art on campus.
Immersive Classroom Experiences
Holograms are proving to be an effective tool for improving student engagement and comprehension. By presenting information in stunning 3D, holograms help students to understand complex concepts and retain them for longer. Holograms reduce the cognitive load and provide an intuitive immersive experience that makes a lasting impression on students. Millennials and Gen Z students want attention-grabbing digital content that engages them and motivates them to learn.
Whether teaching remotely as a hologram or using a solution like ARHT CAPSULE in their classrooms, holograms allow students to connect with their teachers on a whole new level, able to see their facial expressions and body movements and gestures. Instructors are able to incorporate high-resolution 3D images into their presentations to create a more engaging learning environment.
“The ARHT hologram technology has significantly impacted the use of our revolutionary Digital Creative Lab by enhancing the learning experience and inviting collaboration,” said Joe Way, Director of Learning Environments at USC. “ARHT CAPSULE allows students to experience real-world scenarios in a controlled environment. For example, medical students can explore surgical procedures on a holographic 3D model before going into the medical room, allowing them to learn and make mistakes without the risk of harming a patient,” he said.
“Our students find that creating content is an incredible way to develop the practical application of the principles they are learning in the classroom. The ability for students to own their educational experience in a creative way makes for better cognitive learning and improved student satisfaction.”
Toward a Greener Future
Integrating holograms in education benefits the environment by promoting sustainability, offering a cost-effective solution, and providing greater accessibility for students globally. Students can now learn from a broader range of experts without the constraints of geographical boundaries. “With hologram technology, our students can now access educational content from instructors located anywhere around the world,” said Way.
This ground-breaking technology combines the digital and the physical allowing for communication and collaboration across distances. Holograms can revolutionize how we teach and learn by creating dynamic, immersive learning experiences. Investing in this technology puts USC at the leading edge of innovation and prepares students for an ever-expanding technological workforce.
