Angelo State University (ASU) has teamed up with award-winning creative technology firm Groove Jones to create two cutting-edge augmented/mixed reality (AR/MR) applications designed to revolutionize student learning in biology and chemistry. This fall, the AR apps are being piloted in ASU’s freshman-level Principles of Biology and junior-level Organic Chemistry courses.
Over 30 Microsoft HoloLens 2 headsets are being deployed to give students an immersive, hands-on learning experience.
“The 3D imagery and interactive qualities of the headsets and programs are really impressive and also pivotal in helping students understand different scientific principles,” said Dr. Paul Swets, dean of the College of Science and Engineering. “Being able to manipulate structures and compounds digitally and in real-time is critical to modern students, who are digital learners and expect digital engagement.”
Bringing Science to Life with AR and MR
The HoloLens 2 headsets, equipped with advanced features like hand tracking, voice commands, eye tracking, and spatial mapping, allow students to interact with 3D models of scientific structures and concepts, such as:
- Cell and DNA structures
- Human anatomy models
- Chemical compounds and bonding
- Atomic structures
ASU faculty members, led by Dr. Greg Krukonis (biology) and Dr. Saravanan Ramasamy (chemistry), spent the summer integrating the AR technology into the curriculum. Select sections of the two courses will use the AR headsets, while others will serve as a control group, enabling project leaders to measure the impact on student success and retention.
“There are not many schools implementing these types of headsets and the augmented and virtual reality programs,” Swets said. “We believe it will attract more students, be an enticement for students to learn more and spend more time on their studies, and also be an inducement for them to remain in these academic programs.”
A Trailblazing Initiative
Few universities are leveraging AR/MR technologies at this scale. Dr. Swets believes these tools will attract students, encourage deeper engagement with the material, and improve retention in STEM programs.
“This initiative positions ASU as a leader in innovative teaching technologies,” he said. “We expect these tools will motivate students to spend more time studying and stay committed to their academic goals.” The project is funded through ASU’s five-year Hispanic Serving Institution-STEM grant from the U.S. Department of Education. Groove Jones was selected after an extensive review based on their proven expertise in augmented and mixed reality development.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Angelo State University on this transformative initiative,” said Trevor Backlin, Senior Executive at Groove Jones. “By combining immersive AR technology with innovative teaching methods, we’re empowering students to engage with science in a whole new way. This is just the beginning, and we’re excited to continue exploring how these technologies can shape the future of education.”
Looking Ahead
The pilot program’s outcomes will be monitored over the next two years to evaluate its effectiveness and potential for expansion. “We’re hopeful these tools will yield positive results,” Swets said. “If successful, we’ll consider introducing AR/VR headsets into additional courses, opening opportunities for our computer science students and faculty to develop new applications.”
ASU retains proprietary and licensing rights for the newly developed AR applications, ensuring future flexibility and growth in AR-enhanced learning. “This is a significant step forward for ASU,” Swets concluded. “We’re excited to see how this innovation will inspire and support our students as they tackle challenging STEM subjects.”
Learn more about ASU – https://www.angelo.edu/