The workshop allowed participants to explore new 3D live streaming technology using the Microsoft HoloLens, Lidar technology (laser cameras), and share educational practices of engagement, and design novel interactions to guide future developments of the technology to be used in an educational context.
The workshop forms part of a four-year Academy of Finland funded project under the leadership of Prof Erkki Sutinen, from the University of Turku, in partnership with an international and interdisciplinary research team. “This immersive technology will connect people across continents, with a feeling of being present and together, while being in remote places,” Prof Sutinen said.
Dr Naska Goagagoses, from the Carl Von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, the educational psychologist on the team, ensured that pedagogical frameworks and constructs, such as academic engagement, are embraced in the design of the technology to facilitate remote presence education. “Although the technology is in its infancy, it is of outmost importance to include Namibian students and teachers at an early stage to ensure local needs and ideaswhich will influence future development and global edutech trends,” Prof Winschiers-Theophilus emphasised.
The teachers and students who participated in the workshop provided valuable suggestions, of which some will be implemented by the software development team, led by Dr Nicolas Pope from the University of Turku.
“Exploring the usage of cutting-edge technologies such as the HoloLens, provide unique and innovative opportunities in TVET and social entrepreneurship that is much needed for Namibia to drive the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” Dr Colin Stanley, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Partnerships of NUST explained.