Enhancing Educational Experiences: Integrating Unreal Engine Simulations in Laboratory Learning

Oscar L Delgado

Download Paper | Permalink

Conference: 2024 ASEE-GSW
Location: Canyon, Texas
Publication Date: March 10, 2024
Start Date: March 10, 2024
End Date: March 12, 2024
Page Count: 17
DOI: 10.18260/1-2--45378
Permanent URL: https://peer.asee.org/45378
Download Count: 13

Request a correction

Paper Authors

biography

Oscar L Delgado Texas A&M University

visit author page

Texas A&M Engineering | Engineering Studio for Advanced Instruction and Learning

Oscar Delgado - Web Application Developer.

visit author page

Download Paper | Permalink

Abstract

Abstract Title: "Enhancing Educational Experiences: Integrating Unreal Engine Simulations in Laboratory Learning"

In the evolving landscape of education, the integration of technology in laboratory learning is pivotal. Traditional lab settings, while foundational, are often hindered by constraints such as cost, accessibility, and safety. This proposal explores the transformative potential of Unreal Engine, a state-of-the-art game engine, in crafting virtual simulations for advanced education lab assignments. We present two case studies highlighting Unreal Engine's efficacy in enriching educational experiences and propose a dynamic showcase at the ASEE conference to demonstrate this cutting-edge technology.

Introduction cases: Case Study 1: Nuclear Reactor Pulse Simulation

Our first venture involved creating a simulation of a nuclear reactor pulse event using Unreal Engine. This tool enabled us to create a realistic, virtual replica of a nuclear reactor, complete with accurate dimensions, visual fidelity, and sound design. Students engaged with virtual controls to observe changes in key reactor metrics like power, temperature, and radiation levels. This simulation offered students the chance to:

*Comprehend complex reactor dynamics visually. *Understand the interplay between different reactor variables. *Practice emergency responses in a risk-free virtual setting. *Post-simulation surveys indicated a notable uplift in students' comprehension and operational confidence. The preference for this interactive approach over traditional methods was overwhelmingly positive.

Case Study 2: Braccio Arduino Robot Arm Simulation (In Progress)

Encouraged by our initial success, we're developing a simulation for the Braccio Arduino robot arm. This project aims to:

*Demonstrate real-time movements of robot arm components. *Allow experimentation with diverse programming commands. *Enhance understanding of robotic programming and control mechanics. *Although in development, this simulation shows immense promise in elevating robotics education, particularly in offering a safe space for experimentation without risking physical assets.

Showcase Proposal for ASEE Conference

We propose an engaging showcase at the ASEE conference, including:

Nuclear Reactor Pulse Simulation Station: This interactive session will let participants experience the intricacies of nuclear reactor operation, showcasing Unreal Engine's capability in rendering qualitative aspects of this complex scientific phenomena.

Braccio Arduino Robot Arm Simulation Station (Demo): Here, we'll display our progress on the robot arm simulation, highlighting its initial features and potential impact on industrial robotics applications.

Conclusion

Unreal Engine emerges as a formidable tool in creating immersive educational simulations, as evidenced by our case studies. Its application extends beyond traditional learning paradigms, offering an interactive, risk-free environment for exploring complex concepts. Our initiative seeks to revolutionize laboratory teaching methodologies across diverse disciplines. We eagerly invite ASEE to explore the untapped potential of Unreal Engine in academic settings, paving the way for innovative educational practices.

Citation
Format

Delgado, O. L. (2024, March), Enhancing Educational Experiences: Integrating Unreal Engine Simulations in Laboratory Learning Paper presented at 2024 ASEE-GSW, Canyon, Texas. 10.18260/1-2--45378

TY - CPAPER
AB - Abstract
Title: &quot;Enhancing Educational Experiences: Integrating Unreal Engine Simulations in Laboratory Learning&quot;

In the evolving landscape of education, the integration of technology in laboratory learning is pivotal. Traditional lab settings, while foundational, are often hindered by constraints such as cost, accessibility, and safety. This proposal explores the transformative potential of Unreal Engine, a state-of-the-art game engine, in crafting virtual simulations for advanced education lab assignments. We present two case studies highlighting Unreal Engine&#39;s efficacy in enriching educational experiences and propose a dynamic showcase at the ASEE conference to demonstrate this cutting-edge technology.

Introduction cases:
Case Study 1: Nuclear Reactor Pulse Simulation

Our first venture involved creating a simulation of a nuclear reactor pulse event using Unreal Engine. This tool enabled us to create a realistic, virtual replica of a nuclear reactor, complete with accurate dimensions, visual fidelity, and sound design. Students engaged with virtual controls to observe changes in key reactor metrics like power, temperature, and radiation levels. This simulation offered students the chance to:

*Comprehend complex reactor dynamics visually.
*Understand the interplay between different reactor variables.
*Practice emergency responses in a risk-free virtual setting.
*Post-simulation surveys indicated a notable uplift in students&#39; comprehension and operational confidence. The preference for this interactive approach over traditional methods was overwhelmingly positive.

Case Study 2: Braccio Arduino Robot Arm Simulation (In Progress)

Encouraged by our initial success, we&#39;re developing a simulation for the Braccio Arduino robot arm. This project aims to:

*Demonstrate real-time movements of robot arm components.
*Allow experimentation with diverse programming commands.
*Enhance understanding of robotic programming and control mechanics.
*Although in development, this simulation shows immense promise in elevating robotics education, particularly in offering a safe space for experimentation without risking physical assets.

Showcase Proposal for ASEE Conference

We propose an engaging showcase at the ASEE conference, including:

Nuclear Reactor Pulse Simulation Station: This interactive session will let participants experience the intricacies of nuclear reactor operation, showcasing Unreal Engine&#39;s capability in rendering qualitative aspects of this complex scientific phenomena.

Braccio Arduino Robot Arm Simulation Station (Demo): Here, we&#39;ll display our progress on the robot arm simulation, highlighting its initial features and potential impact on industrial robotics applications.

Conclusion

Unreal Engine emerges as a formidable tool in creating immersive educational simulations, as evidenced by our case studies. Its application extends beyond traditional learning paradigms, offering an interactive, risk-free environment for exploring complex concepts. Our initiative seeks to revolutionize laboratory teaching methodologies across diverse disciplines. We eagerly invite ASEE to explore the untapped potential of Unreal Engine in academic settings, paving the way for innovative educational practices.

AU - Oscar L Delgado
CY - Canyon, Texas
DA - 2024/03/10
PB - ASEE Conferences
TI - Enhancing Educational Experiences: Integrating Unreal Engine Simulations in Laboratory Learning
UR - https://peer.asee.org/45378
DO - 10.18260/1-2--45378
ER -