SDSU Hosts CSU Immersive Learning Summit
The summit brought together members from different CSU campuses to explore the use of immersive technology in higher education.
“San Diego State University has a long history of promoting innovative technology in teaching and learning, and has a very powerful team led by James Frazee.”
More than 150 administrators, faculty and staff recently descended on the San Diego State University campus as the university hosted the California State University (CSU) Immersive Learning Summit—an event exploring the use of immersive technology for teaching and learning in higher education.
Co-hosted by SDSU Instructional Technology Services and Cal State Innovate, the summit gave attendees the opportunity to try immersive technology gear and discover how to use these tools in learning spaces. Attendees also participated in hands-on workshops and heard from faculty and industry experts as they shared their experiences and ideas around immersive learning.
Several SDSU faculty and staff members spoke during panels held throughout the day, including Harsimran “Sim” Baweja of the School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, Bernie Dodge of the Learning Design and Technology program, and Linnea Zeiner of the Department of Classics and Humanities.
According to Michael Berman, chief innovation officer for the CSU system, the summit came about after several CSU campuses expressed interest in exploring the use of immersive learning technology and virtual reality. After visiting SDSU earlier this year, Berman said it was clear SDSU was the perfect place to host this event.
“San Diego State University has a long history of promoting innovative technology in teaching and learning, and has a very powerful team led by James Frazee,” said Berman. “Campuses across the CSU look at SDSU as one of the leaders in this area because there is strong support and a good spirit of experimentation and connectivity with faculty.”
Vinay Narayan, executive director of Virtual Reality for HTC Vive, delivered the keynote address, discussing how augmented reality and virtual reality are redefining learning.
“SDSU takes a great approach to technology and immersive learning," said Narayan. “Universities really excel when they intersect student innovation and industry, and SDSU has that vision to empower students to be the best and well-equipped when they graduate.”
CSU Immersive Learning Summit More than 150 administrators, faculty and staff from the CSU campuses visited SDSU to discuss the use of immersive technology for teaching and learning in higher education. (All photos by Ryan Schuler)
