August 10, 2024 - MERCED, Calif. — By James Leonard - Hundreds of local students will be transported to an immersive alien landscape to aid in learning the basics of biology this year, thanks to the launch of Merced College’s new Dreamscape Learn Lab.
Developed in partnership with Dreamscape Learn and in collaboration with Arizona State University, the lab is the first permanent, brick-and-mortar virtual reality learning facility in the California Community College system to deploy both a Dreamscape Learn classroom and a free-roam pod experience.
The immersive virtual reality learning lab, unveiled during a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, is now open to students enrolled in biology classes for the Fall 2024 semester, which begins Monday, Aug. 12. Course offerings in other subjects will be expanded as curriculum is developed in the coming semesters.
“Merced College is committed to being one of the most innovative community colleges in the nation, and to providing equitable educational opportunities for all of our students,” President Chris Vitelli said. “Through this partnership with Dreamscape Learn, we are bringing a unique, one-of-a-kind interactive and dynamic new learning experience to students that will transform how we approach teaching and learning moving forward.”
The Dreamscape Learn platform integrates VR and immersive storytelling techniques to create a highly engaging and interactive learning environments. The platform aims to transform traditional education by leveraging the power of VR to make complex subjects more accessible and captivating.
Students can explore virtual worlds, interact with dynamic simulations, and engage in experiential learning that enhances understanding and retention. Dreamscape Learn is designed to complement conventional teaching methods, providing a multi-sensory experience that fosters deeper learning and critical thinking skills.
“Studies have shown that student learning is substantially increased through the use of the Dreamscape Learn VR platform,” said Garrick Grace, Dean of Innovation. “Unfamiliar concepts become more clear, and lessons from the classroom are understood in greater depth after students have experienced and explored them in the virtual environment.”
Innovation Abounds as New Year Begins
The spirit of innovation in the name of student success extends from the virtual reality lab into the agricultural fields of the San Joaquin Valley, where ag workers now have new paths to upward mobility through education.
As part of the AgTEC workforce initiative, Merced College is launching a new certificate program employing a competency-based education (CBE) model, in which students will demonstrate mastery of a competency to move through the program more quickly and avoid unneeded time spent in classrooms or labs.
“There is a major shortage of employees who can effectively operate, maintain and repair the evolving equipment and technology that is now being incorporated in the ag industry,” said Cody Jacobsen, Director of Ag Innovation. “The new Ag Systems certificate program offers just that, providing opportunities for employees to increase their skills and knowledge to become much more employable.”
Another element of the AgTEC initiative is a new AgTEC Innovation Center, where students will get real-world experience in processing, packaging and even selling agricultural products. A groundbreaking will be held this semester for the center, which will include a storefront where members of the community can purchase student-made goods.
Other highlights for the upcoming year at Merced College include:
* A new and expanded space for the Career and Transfer Center, offering new workshops and services, and opportunities for students to connect with recruiters from other colleges.
* Completion of the remodeled Business and Economics Building (formerly Vocational Building).
* Enhanced personal and professional development opportunities for employees, including the Well-Being Institute, President’s Leadership Academy and more.
* Continued growth and development of the Los Banos Campus, including a new Child Development Center, new ag building, revamped food forest, and new course offerings.
Enrollment for the Fall 2024 semester is still open, including online, in-person, hybrid and late-start classes. Enroll today at mccd.edu/enroll https://www.mccd.edu/enroll
Source: Merced College
Related: Merced College Brings VR-Enabled Learning Experiences to Students in STEM Under New Partnership with Dreamscape Learn
