The Virtual Experiences Simulation Lab
VESL is the cornerstone of our UMVerse initiatives that plays a pivotal role in enriching the educational journey of our students. By offering interdisciplinary, hands-on learning opportunities, VESL serves both as a dynamic space for student innovation and as a valuable resource for software development across the campus. This state-of-the-art lab is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and interdisciplinary community, supporting immersive media projects that propel student engagement in applied research and real-world challenges. VESL stands at the forefront of creating award-winning immersive experiences, instrumental in achieving both research breakthroughs and educational excellence.
Our approach at VESL is centered on Design-Based Research methodology, enabling students to gain practical, job-relevant experiences directly on campus. This initiative not only prepares them for a rapidly evolving job market but also paves the way for future careers in research. Currently, the lab is a vibrant hub for over 40 students from 14 different majors, all actively involved in a variety of pioneering projects. Beyond being a hub for cutting-edge Extended Reality (XR) experimentation, VESL is a beacon of experiential learning, equipping students with the skills and knowledge in immersive technologies required for future professions, some of which may not yet exist. We are proud to announce that VESL has been recognized as the best on-campus internship experience at the 9th annual Toppel Awards, highlighting our commitment to excellence and innovation in education.
