University News Last updated 31 January 2023
Birmingham City University (BCU) has been selected as one of over 100 universities and colleges worldwide that will be participating in an innovative ‘immersive learning’ pilot programme, alongside future technology company Bodyswaps, after a successful grant application.
Bodyswaps specialises in soft skill training solutions that harness the power of virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI). The software aims to accelerate learning through self-reflective contextual practice, as users interact with virtual characters before 'swapping bodies' and observing themselves from new perspectives.
BCU students will receive access to virtual reality hardware and software with an initial 3-month unlimited use of the full Bodyswaps soft skills learning library and Meta Quest 2 VR headsets, as the tech giant pledge $150 million towards their own Immersive Learning Initiative.
As part of the learning library, students can utilise online courses supporting practice-focussed studies across two of the university’s faculties - the Law School (Business, Law and Social Science) and Health, Education and Life Sciences as well as soft skill enhancement in the faculty of Computing, Engineering and Built Environment.
Included in the variety of courses available to grantees are modules focusing on diversity, inclusion, public speaking, employability training and empowering students with 'soft skills' development, opening up conversations and increasing awareness.