3D Technology Integration

3D Technology Integration for Enhanced STEM Learning Outcomes

Project Overview:

Visualization represents one of the most challenging aspects in the conceptualization of many STEM learning objectives, whether it be concepts in physics such as momentum or kinetic/potential energy, principles of chemistry such as bonding or chemical structure, or mathematical concepts such as integration and relationships to area under the curve. Emerging techniques in three-dimensional (3D) visualization provide an opportunity for improving learning outcomes amongst topics that are often challenging to visualize or those that would be strengthened for a 3D interaction. The 3D Technology Integration for Enhanced STEM Learning Outcomes project aims to provide K-12 teachers with an engaging platform to enhance the learning experience of STEM related subjects. In this project, virtual reality (VR) in the form on an integrated learning/gaming environment was developed to aid in the reinforcement of learning objectives from the traditional classroom setting for middle and high school students. The VR environment includes a story derived from a historical location in Lafayette, Louisiana and integrates problem solving into the game-play scenario.

Game Story:

The developed product is a virtual reality game in which participants are transported back in time to the town of VERMILIONVILLE, LOUISIANA, where they must answer questions and find clues left by the Pirate Castigo. Casitgo was an actual historical figure known to have lived in Vermilionville. It was rumored that Castigo may have been a member of Jean Lafitte’s pirate gang and joined Lafitte and the rest of his men to defend New Orleans during the very famous Battle of New Orleans in January 1815. Once all of Castigo’s puzzles are solved, users are transported back to today.

The game, which was created by Dot Dream Studios, was specifically designed for students in the Layfette Parrish school system (located near Vermilionville, Louisiana) and is modular – allowing the teachers that use it to input their own questions for puzzles. In this way, it can be used by a variety of teachers (Math, History, English, etc.) The game was also designed loosely on the history and look of old-time Vermilionville to add an additional layer of learning of local history.

Partnership:

The project was supported through the US Department of Education GEARUP PROGRAM in partnership with the Lafayette Parish School System and St. Louis University (PR Award Number: P334A140080). The Lafayette GEAR UP award aimed to serve 2,361 cohort students (1,229 sixth grade and 1,132 seventh grade youth) attending six low-income middle schools - Acadian, Breaux, Carencro, Judice, Lafayette, Scott (79 percent average free / reduced lunch rate) and four feeder high schools - Acadiana, Carencro, Lafayette, Northside.

Participants:

DEVIN HARRIS, Ph.D. – Engineering Systems and Environment
LINDSAY IVEY-BURDEN, Ph.D. – Engineering Systems and Environment
Hong Liang – Undergraduate Student – Engineering Systems and Environment
John Wang – DOT DREAM STUDIOS
Dhruv Gupta – DOT DREAM STUDIOS