Google teams up with Labster to develop 30 immersive lab experiences for the Daydream platform.
STEM students engaged in scientific disciplines, such as biochemistry and neuroscience, are often required by their respective degrees to spend a certain amount of time engaged in an official laboratory environment. Unfortunately, crowded universities and the rise of online education have made it difficult for these innovators-in-training to access properly equipped labs and log their necessary hours.
Cue Google VR Labs, a series of comprehensive virtual lab experiences available on the Google Daydream platform. Developed as part of partnership between Google and simulation education company Labster, the in-depth program boasts 30 interactive lab experiences in which biology students can engage in a series of hands-on scientific activities in a realistic environment.
These actions can include everything from the use of practical tools, such as DNA sequencers and microscopes, to reality-bending experiences only capable in a virtual environment, like traveling to the surface of the newly discovered Astakos IV exoplanet or examining and altering DNA on a molecular level.
“Because there’s no time limit, students can review theories, concepts, and techniques as many times as they want,” spoke Google AR & VR Program Manager, Courtney Hampson, in an official release. “In addition, students receive personalized feedback in the app to help them understand which concepts they need to review, and which techniques need more practice.”
Arizona State University was quick to adopt the game-changing program, having implemented the technology into their online B.S. in Biological Sciences program earlier this month. The University of Texas at San Antonio, McMaster University, and a series of other educational institutions will soon integrate the revolutionary program into their own courses, offering science students a brand new way to fulfil their course credit.
“We’re hoping to make the virtual lab experience available to more students worldwide, including undergraduates, graduate students, and even high schoolers.”
Google’s series of VR Labs operate using Daydream View and Lenovo Mirage Pro VR headsets. For more information on this all-inclusive VR program, check out labster.com/vr.
Image Credit: Google AR & VR
