Chemistry Weekly Seminar - Dr. Derek Jackson, York University
Dr. Derek Jackson, Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry, York University will present a seminar at 1:30 pm via Zoom.
Title
Making Virtual Reality a Reality in the Biochemistry Classroom
Abstract
The central theme of every biochemistry course is how the three-dimensional (3D) structure of macromolecules determines their biological function. The traditional approach to learning these concepts often relies on static or otherwise non-immersive media such as textbook illustrations or videos. Numerous studies have documented conceptual challenges that students experience while learning about 3D structure-function relationships using traditional methods.
Immersive virtual reality (VR) technology displays a clear potential to revolutionize the way molecular sciences are taught in university. Presently, very few universities use VR for teaching chemistry or biochemistry courses. We obtained funding to purchase several Oculus Quest 2 VR headsets for a pilot project aimed at implementing this technology in a third-year biochemistry course at York. The headsets utilized the “Nanome” software, a VR program specifically designed for molecular visualization and live collaboration. Our initiative represents one of the first examples of leveraging the immense potential of VR to improve student learning experience in molecular science courses.
This seminar will describe three VR exercises we developed which were offered to students in a third-year biochemistry course on-campus in Fall 2021. Each of the exercises focused on one of the three major classes of macromolecules: carbohydrates, proteins, and nucleic acids. A live streaming demonstration of Nanome using a VR headset will be provided. The pilot project was a remarkable success and allowed us to establish the feasibility of using the technology in the classroom setting. The students’ enthusiasm and excitement about the technology were also very encouraging to observe in this setting. Potential future VR projects in our department will also be discussed.
Date: Friday, November 26
Time: 1:30 pm
Zoom link available by request to chem.dept@usask.ca