3D Visualisation and Virtual Reality
|
Scientific visualisation
of complex experimental or computer-generated data, models or specimens
always involves the use of various kinds of 3D and virtual reality (VR)
display technologies. There are six types of them which can be easily
shown on a multimedia computer and transmitted through the Internet
and they are listed as follows:
|
The key advantages of using 3D/VR technologies are that they could not only allow the learners look at the objects from different perspectives but also help to eliminate the learners' misconception or illusion arising from the projection of the real 3D objects onto flat 2D photos or drawing.
Some technologies can provide a sort of almost first-person experience to
the learner by allowing the learner to manipulate the objects freely in the
three-dimensional space.
Left photo: Demo by a Science student to Dr. Pang on the use of 3D Photo Objects to study the structure of flowers. |
Some 3D and virtual reality technologies require the wearing of certain spectacles (e.g. LCD shutter glasses) for acquiring the real depth perception of the objects. Right photo: Real-time recording of 3D video on a computer. |
Some viewing methods may induce some sort of unpleasant feeling to the viewers
after prolonged viewing.
Left photo: Using red-blue filter glasses to view analgyph images. |
Some typical software for creating the 3D/VR computer objects are shown below:
We have developed plenty samples of 3D/VR objects based on the aforementioned six types of technologies for educating the HKIEd students. Click the button below to browse some samples on the Internet.
Applications of 3D & Virtual Reality in Science Education In recent years, VR has been rated as one of the most important technologies which are expected to re-shape our socio-cultural life in the near future because it has a wide diversity of impressive and practical applications such as 3D medical imaging, product and architectural design, visualization of complex scientific data, molecular/crystal modeling, games/entertainment, training and education. With the rapid advancement in 3D and computer technologies, VR has become much more user-friendly and affordable in prices and so it will likely be incorporated as a part of the IT environment in local schools within a few years. Why do we advocate the use of VR technologies in university science degree programs? Based on our professional experience in teaching various subject areas, we have uncovered and identified many topics containing at least one of the following special characteristics/ features which are well-known to cause obstacles/difficulties to learning in many students.:
|
[Chinese version] Editors: Prof. YEUNG Yau Yuen, Dr. LEE Yeung Chung and Prof. WANG Xiaojun Copyright (C) 1999-2019. HKIEd HAS Centre. All Rights Reserved. |