Supporting the Learning of Complex Molecular Biology Concepts with a Mixed-Reality (MR) Storytelling Experience
Disciplines
Curriculum and Instruction | Molecular Biology | Other Computer Engineering
Abstract (300 words maximum)
Complex molecular biology concepts such as DNA damage and repair mechanisms involve an intriguing process with different types of proteins and their interactions and present a learning challenge to students at all levels with traditional instructional approaches. Recent practices of combining immersive technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and wearable augmented reality (AR) with digital storytelling to explain complex science concepts through an embodied and experiential learning experience have seen positive evidence in increasing learning engagement and motivation, providing promising new pedagogical strategies to supplement textbook instructions. This research project utilizes the latest MR technologies (wearable augmented reality and immersive virtual reality) and devices and develops a custom immersive and interactive storytelling experience centering around the main DNA repair mechanisms: the roles of MRN complex and p53 protein molecules. The immersive story breaks down the complexity of the concepts with engaging sci-fi narratives and reinforces learning through gameplay interactions. The overarching goal of the project is to explore how a blended virtual and augmented storytelling experience helps with a learner’s comprehension of complex molecular biology concepts and to understand the overall learning experience among users. The effectiveness of the MR storytelling experience and learning outcome will be accessed through a small-scale user study.
Academic department under which the project should be listed
CCSE - Software Engineering and Game Development
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Lei Zhang
Supporting the Learning of Complex Molecular Biology Concepts with a Mixed-Reality (MR) Storytelling Experience
Complex molecular biology concepts such as DNA damage and repair mechanisms involve an intriguing process with different types of proteins and their interactions and present a learning challenge to students at all levels with traditional instructional approaches. Recent practices of combining immersive technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and wearable augmented reality (AR) with digital storytelling to explain complex science concepts through an embodied and experiential learning experience have seen positive evidence in increasing learning engagement and motivation, providing promising new pedagogical strategies to supplement textbook instructions. This research project utilizes the latest MR technologies (wearable augmented reality and immersive virtual reality) and devices and develops a custom immersive and interactive storytelling experience centering around the main DNA repair mechanisms: the roles of MRN complex and p53 protein molecules. The immersive story breaks down the complexity of the concepts with engaging sci-fi narratives and reinforces learning through gameplay interactions. The overarching goal of the project is to explore how a blended virtual and augmented storytelling experience helps with a learner’s comprehension of complex molecular biology concepts and to understand the overall learning experience among users. The effectiveness of the MR storytelling experience and learning outcome will be accessed through a small-scale user study.