The Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology (UICT) is a publicly-funded tertiary institution with a mandate to provide digital skills training to all Ugandan citizens, as per the guidelines set out in the Uganda Digital Transformation Roadmap. UICT has taken the lead in integrating Augmented and Virtual Reality into our teaching approach, to equip all Ugandans with essential skills that are critical in securing meaningful employment opportunities.
Virtual Reality/VR
This technology enables a user to immerse themselves in a realistic virtual experience by wearing a headset. The real-world environment is transformed into a three-dimensional space, which the user can interact with as if they are present within it.
Augmented Reality/AR
Augmented reality is a technology that enables the integration of virtual and real-life environments, providing users with a more immersive and interactive experience. It allows virtual objects and information to be overlaid onto the physical world, creating a seamless blend of the two. This integration enhances the existing environment by adding new layers of digital information.
WHY SHOULD WE ADAPT TO USING AVR IN UGANDA?
AVR technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with the world around us. It can be applied to gaming, entertainment, education, and enterprise sectors. In Uganda, students face a big challenge in getting the necessary skill set to navigate the employment world. To address this problem, AVR provides a solution by reducing costs and unavailability of equipment in labs. It utilizes virtual labs in simulated realistic virtual scenarios, providing students with unlimited access to practical sessions in safe environments.
1. IN EDUCATION
AVR simulations can replicate training scenarios and provide immersive training experiences that allow hands-on practical skilling to develop job-specific skills and competencies in a realistic virtual environment. This improves practical problem-solving and critical thinking skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Innovation (STEMI). Immersive learning Experiences – Students can explore scientific concepts, engineering principles, mathematical models and technological innovations with a hands-on approach to learning, which enhances engagement and understanding. Visualization of Abstract concepts – Students visualize abstract concepts and connect the theories to real-world applications in a 3D space using interactive tools and diverse learning styles away from the traditional approach of teaching.
Interactive Simulations and Experiments – Learners have access to virtual environments where they conduct simulations and experiments collaboratively or individually in a safe and controlled environment. This allows them to explore and test hypotheses promoting active engagement and understanding. Remote, collaborative learning and assessment – Students can interact and participate in shared virtual classrooms and group projects regardless of their physical location in real-time preparing them for collaborative work environments where instructors monitor and assess students’ progress.
2. IN ENTERPRISE
Through specialized training programs, AVR allows individuals to gain industry-relevant experience and knowledge without requiring access to physical equipment or resources. This exposure to real-world scenarios and environments can make candidates more attractive to employers seeking skilled and experienced workers some of the applications are:
Security- Security personnel can undergo immersive training exercises in these controlled and virtual environments to simulate security vulnerabilities in buildings, airports, stadiums or other facilities to improve their skills. AVR can aid in surveillance and monitoring, highlighting potential security threats, displaying navigation routes, or providing contextual information about specific objects or individuals to be able to assess and develop mitigation strategies.
Engineering and ICT- AVR allows engineers and designers to collaboratively create designs and prototypes, and visualize 3D models of products, machinery or infrastructure in a virtual. This helps to speed up the prototyping and iteration process, interactive product demonstrations and virtual tours, which enhances innovation and product development. Additionally, it also helps to improve marketing efforts and reduce the cost of equipment that would otherwise be required during the design process.
Health sector – AVR, or augmented virtual reality, provides medical personnel with a safe and realistic virtual environment to practice surgical procedures, medical interventions, and patient care techniques. The technology allows for unlimited access to materials and skill development in surgical precision, while also reducing errors. Additionally, AVR offers therapeutic applications for patients, such as managing symptoms of PSTD and anxiety disorders, among others.
Research and Innovation – AR and VR technologies provide researchers with powerful tools to improve data visualization and analysis. They can conduct realistic simulations and modeling to address complex societal challenges through access to virtual experiments. Additionally, AR and VR technologies can provide real-time guidance with instructions or reference materials during virtual experiments, data collection, or fieldwork. This improves efficiency and productivity in a collaborative environment, pushing the boundaries of innovation.
Flavia Nabbumba
AVR lead Admin- UICT