Coventry University has made a significant investment in immersive technology with a £3 million upgrade, enhancing its healthcare and engineering training facilities. The university’s School of Health and Care and College of Engineering, Environment and Science have each received state-of-the-art technology funded by a £5 million grant from the Office for Students.

The School of Health and Care has introduced a VR Cave Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE), a sophisticated simulation tool supplied by Animmersion UK. This CAVE features a large simulation screen that wraps around three walls, allowing students to experience various healthcare settings and interact with simulated patients using 3D headsets. The technology supports clinical practice in a safe environment where students can explore interactive organs and healthcare mannequins. It is particularly beneficial for courses such as diagnostic radiography, occupational therapy, and physiotherapy, enabling students to practice patient interactions, treatment procedures, and diagnostic techniques.

Dr. Natasha Taylor, Curriculum Lead for Healthcare Simulation, emphasized the CAVE’s role in providing a fully immersive learning environment. It enables students to switch between different healthcare scenarios and examine body parts in detail. This simulation approach helps students build confidence and competence by allowing them to learn from mistakes in a controlled setting.

In the College of Engineering, Environment and Science, a Powerwall has been installed, featuring a high-definition, floor-to-ceiling screen with 3D immersive technology. This tool allows students to interact with and examine mechanical designs and prototypes from various angles. Hardeep Nandra, Technical Skills Advisor, highlighted its value in collaborative design sessions, prototype development, and detailed design critiques. The Powerwall also offers immersive experiences across engineering subjects, including virtual visits to real-world locations and simulations of engineering environments.

Both technologies represent a transformative advancement in education, providing students with enhanced, interactive learning experiences.