By Linda Gedemer, AV and Acoustic Consultant

Although some educators see 3D technology as another tech gimmick, it has the possibility to revolutionize training in a host of disciplines–and cut costs.

Mention 3D and everybody immediately thinks of movies such as Tintin and Avatar. But 3D projection also plays a key training role in industry, especially for high-skills jobs such as airline pilots, astronauts, and a variety of positions in the military. By utilizing 3D simulators, organizations in these sectors conduct safe and effective training that would otherwise cost millions of dollars–or be impossible.

Given the pressure on higher education budgets, schools are also starting to look more closely at 3D technology as a way to trim their budgets. 3D simulations can eliminate the need for real-world labs, experiments, and training sessions that expend valuable resources, both material and human. It’s quite possible that at some point doctors, dentists, nurses, engineers, and mechanics–among others–might train primarily using 3D simulations. Currently, such scenarios are rare, if they exist at all. To find out why, CT examined the factors delaying the wider implementation of 3D and what it will take for 3D instruction finally to take wing.

Cost

When fully implemented, 3D technology has the potential to cut training costs significantly. But, for many educators, 3D is still seen through the prism of entertainment. As a result, they find it difficult to justify the expense. Implementing a 3D instructional component does cost money, although–surprisingly–the equipment itself is not a significant line item. [more…]

Source: Campus Technology