The Virtual Reality Development Lab (VRDL) from Digital Tech
Frontier (www.wecantakeyouthere.com) is an authoring tool that
promises to revolutionize classroom learning. It consists of
digital cameras, editing software and VR equipment that allow
students to create VR environments which they can explore and
collaborate on with other classmates. Students can explore ready-made
virtual environments for places such as Machu Picchu and the
Hoover Dam, or they can create their own custom environments.
Working collectively, students must first import images from
the provided software, or take photos with a fish-eye lens.
Using the VRDl software, students then "stitch" the
images of their environment together to create one six-faced
cubic panorama. The resulting QuickTime VR movies are linked
to create a virtual tour where "hot spots" can be
added with nedia files and additional materials. The environments
are completed with interactive maps and environmental sounds
that students can add to enhance the setting. In order to present
their work, students only need to post their environments on
the Web so that they are accessible from any desktop, notebook
or projector.
