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The University of Leeds collaborates with virtual reality experts to enhance student experience

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The University of Leeds is thrilled to unveil an exciting Virtual Reality (VR) teaching pilot in collaboration with VictoryXR. 

VictoryXR, recognised for its expertise in applying VR to education, has crafted a 'Digital Twin' of select University of Leeds buildings.  

The twin offers students a unique and experimental opportunity, pushing the boundaries of technology, and providing a fresh perspective on learning to complement the in-person classroom experience. 

Margaret Korosec, Dean of Online and Digital Education said:  

As an institution with bold ambitions in digital education, we were keen to partner with experts to build our capacity and understanding of the rapidly evolving use of Virtual Reality that supports a meaningful staff and student experience. The partnership with VictoryXR is a great example of collaboration that will support our trajectory.

Dr Katie Gardner, lecturer in arts-based pedagogical practices will begin using this technology with a small cohort of Theatre and Performance students in March. 

Dr Gardner said:  

This pilot is an adventurous exploration driven by curiosity to see how virtual collaboration might impact not only student education but also performance practice and processes.  

We're actively embracing possibilities that enable our students to connect with our global partners as well as push their personal boundaries and digital skill sets.

On Tuesday 12 March, the University of Leeds hosted a launch event for its Digital Twin campus. This took place in the Metaversity campus, with key stakeholders from Leeds and VictoryXR attending the event inside the twin, using VR headsets.  The event was also livestreamed on YouTube Live 

At the event, Margaret Korosec spoke about the potential the digital twin offers both students and staff. Virtual attendees then took a short tour of some of the key buildings in the twin. 

Watch the live-streamed ribbon cutting below:

Find out about the University of Leeds digital twin below:

For more information about Digital Education at Leeds, visit the Digital Education website.