Work-in-Progress—Headgear-free 3D interactions for asynchronous, online learning experiences: an exploration of design, development and integration

Abstract

The higher educational landscape has witnessed rapid digital transformation over the last decade [1] leading to increased variety of demands and expectations. Consequently, universities are investing in widening their provision, including asynchronous, online [2] courses which can offer learners a sense of flexibility and autonomy. With this shift, there is a need for innovative approaches that engage and motivate learners and enhance learning experiences. This work in progress paper describes our multidisciplinary project, which delivers proof-of-concept of leveraging 3D models and WebGL as well as 3D streaming and previewing tools, to augment asynchronous learning, and support learners in reaching psychomotor-driven learning outcomes.

Conventional methods of asynchronous learning (e.g. video, audio, texts) often lack the interactivity that stimulates active learning, and also lack interactive three dimensionality. While intentional interdisciplinary learning design can help overcome this, the ability to interact with the multimedia activities themselves demands new approaches to ideation and asset creation, as well as new technical workflows. On campus XR learning experiences, delivered through individualized hardware, already enable interactive, immersive 3D pedagogical practices, but this is difficult to scale cost-effectively, when aiming to provide parity of experience to numerous online learners studying in an asynchronous manner (i.e., across multiple territories and time zones, mostly without XR headgear). AIM (Asynchronous Interactive Media) project’s initial outputs, integrating pedagogical principles, 3D modeling and interaction design and learning technology, offers a framework for ideating asynchronous 3D multimedia interaction, pointing to further development potential within digital Higher Education contexts, but also immediate piloting opportunities.