Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has revealed plans to create an online metaverse campus called Metahkust. It will begin by creating a virtual classroom in mixed reality that allows students of other latitudes access to the classes. It will also host the official launch of Guangzhou’s new campus.
The Metaverse is being defended by the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Metaverse space applications are becoming more popular and institutions are gradually integrating them into their daily operations. A joint metaverse will be created by the Hong Kong University that will connect both campuses as one. Metahkust will enable students at different latitudes of the university to take part in events and classes as though they were one.
First, the metaverse-based systems will be demonstrated at Guangzhou’s campus. The university will also host September’s opening. Pan Hui (professor of computational media-arts at Guangzhou campus) stated that:
A lot of guests might be overseas and can’t attend, so we will host it in the metaverse.
Virtual Approach Benefits
The institution discussed the advantages of metaverse-based classrooms or campuses over traditional remote classes that use Zoom video conferencing software. Hui said that metaverse environment offer students more interaction, and can make it feel like they’re in real-world lessons. He explained:
Using Zoom feels like you’re just looking at a 2D screen. But through virtual reality, you can feel as if you’re there. Interaction is essential for learning. You can learn more from students if you are able to interact with them.
Furthermore, Hu stated this new focus would promote a sense of “unity and participation” that would otherwise be impossible to achieve due to geographical constraints. The university plans to install sensors and cameras that will feed data to the metaverse to create a virtual campus.
Recent announcements by the University of Tokyo regarding the incorporation of metaverse tech in its educational processes were made. It was reported that the university will begin offering lessons on metaverse engineering in the later part of this year.
How do you feel about the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology’s Metaverse Initiative? Comment below.
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