zSpace Inc. has announced what they are billing as the world’s first all-in-one desktop virtual reality solution for education. Introduced at ISTE 2015, zSpace for Education is a streamlined hardware and software solution that allows students to manipulate virtual, 3D objects ranging from human hearts to helicopters to learn concepts such as math, physics, engineering and biology.
Tens of thousands of students across the country are already learning with zSpace STEM labs. Previously, the zSpace system consisted of a virtual reality monitor and separate computer. To develop the new all-in-one product, zSpace collaborated with Foxconn Technology Group, the world’s largest electronics contract manufacturer.
zSpace for Education is an all-in-one virtual reality desktop featuring education software that is easy-to-use, natural and intuitive. In addition, zSpace for Education includes:
High-speed head-tracking, enabling smooth interaction between students and 3D objectsThe world’s only virtual reality stylus, enabling students to learn by doingA new touch-screen, enabling more intuitive use of zSpace and Windows applicationsAMD (NASDAQ: AMD) FirePro graphics and liquidVR technology, resulting in the most realistic and comfortable real world virtual reality experiencezSpace for Education: expanding across the USMore than 100 school districts are using zSpace across the country. Los Altos School District is starting its third year using zSpace and has seen a direct impact on student learning.
“Students like learning with zSpace because it is so much fun,” said Katie Farley, STEM Teacher at Covington Elementary, Los Altos School District. “But the teachers and administration chose zSpace because of its ability to engage students and immerse them in a world that would otherwise be impossible to re-create in a classroom. Students truly embark on an expedition into knowledge that revolutionizes learning for all students. ”
In the districts already using zSpace, students have explored virtual volcanoes and built advanced electricity boards. The system provides students with a realistic learning environment and a personalized learning experience that aligns to the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), Common Core and state standards. Virtual-holographic images can be “lifted” from the screen and manipulated with the stylus. Some applications provide multi-sensory feedback; for example, students working with a virtual heart can see it pumping, hear it, and feel it beating.