HKUST Takes the Plunge into the Metaverse with Launch of Virtual Reality Classroom

HKUST’s Bold Move into the Metaverse

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) is diving headfirst into the digital age with the launch of its virtual reality classroom, set to take place on September 1. This is not just another launch; it signifies HKUST’s grand plan to construct a virtual educational realm known as MetaHKUST. It’s like Hogwarts, but for tech geeks!

Why MetaHKUST?

In a statement to the South China Morning Post, Professor Pan Hui, chair of computational media and arts at the Guangzhou campus, mentioned that this new mixed-reality classroom will serve as a futuristic bridge between campuses in Hong Kong and Guangzhou. Imagine attending a lecture without the hassle of a commute! As Hui states, “A lot of guests might be overseas and can’t attend the opening, so we will host it in the metaverse.” Talk about making geography a non-issue!

The Power of Interaction in the Metaverse

While traditional universities scrambled to adapt to online platforms like Zoom during the pandemic, Hui believes that virtual reality offers far superior engagement opportunities. “Through virtual reality, you can feel as if you’re there. How you interact with students around you will increase your learning outcome,” he emphasized. Learning in VR is like being in a game where no one gets left behind!

Is the Metaverse Here to Stay?

HKUST’s Vice President for Institutional Advancement, Wang Yang, confidently stated that the Metaverse is “here to stay.” This isn’t a fleeting trend; it’s the dawn of a new educational era. Just when you thought you knew everything about digital learning, the Metaverse spins in like your favorite superhero!

From Classrooms to Courtrooms: The Expanding Metaverse

The Metaverse isn’t just for classrooms; it’s finding its way into legal proceedings too! Singapore’s Second Minister for Law, Edwin Tong, suggested using the Metaverse for things like marriage registration and court cases. According to him, “It would not be unthinkable that, besides registration of marriages, other government services can soon be accessed online via the Metaverse.” So, your next court case might just be a click away!