Immerse Cell - Virtual Reality Learning Experiences for teaching Cell Biology

ImmerseCell is a virtual reality experience (VLE) to teach undergraduate and postgraduate students about key cellular structures with an interactive, narrated, guided experience (Figure 1,  Figure 2). The team utilised real-world microscopy data of various key cellular structures in the mammalian cell and reconstructed them into 3D models that can be used as learning objects in a virtual environment.

ImmserseCell was developed using 3D modelling software and Unreal Engine to create the entire VR learning experience. The VLE can be deployed in a variety of high-end and low-end headsets. Software is cross-platform and independent of any specific virtual reality platform.

The experiences use both artist impressions and 3D reconstructions of these organelles based on real data acquired by fluorescence microscopy. Students can pick these structures and interact with them using motion controllers.