Chattahoochee Valley Community College and Vizitech Solutions have teamed up to offer students a more hands-on approach to learning.
Two new computer labs with ZSpace computers have been added to the college, located in Phenix City. These computers allow students to learn 3D, augmented reality and virtual reality programs and technology, with each computer coming equipped with 3D glasses and a stylus that allows students to interact with a virtual object or environment.
“Learning through this kind of technology allows students the capability to apply what they learn in real-life settings,” said Bridgett Jackson, health sciences director at the college. “They can dissect different anatomy that may be included in their lesson. It gives them a real-life depiction of what can go wrong, and then they can better understand the disease processes that may occur.”
The labs are being used throughout the Health Sciences program with nursing and medical assisting students, as well as through the Science Department where it will be used with biology, chemistry and physical science courses.
“It adds another dimension of instruction for our students,” said Merry Cuervo, science division chair. “They are able to visualize more with the 3D technology than before with our other lecture and laboratory experiences.”
Chattahoochee Valley Community College was one of two colleges in the state to receive a $250,000 grant from the Alabama Community College System to implement the labs. This also places the college technology on the same level as the local school systems.
“With Phenix City Schools already using this technology, it was essential that CVCC have a ZSpace to continue the interactive learning experience that these students have experienced in their secondary education,” said Chantae Calhoun, dean of instruction at CVCC. “Now they experience the technology on a collegiate level.”
A ribbon cutting and open house for the lab will be held this Wednesday, January 15 at 1 p.m. in the Instructional Performing Arts Center in room 322. The public is invited to attend and learn first-hand about 3D technology with an interactive demonstration.
