The Faculty of Global Engagement at the Kyoto University of Foreign Studies (KUFS) recently unveiled a cutting-edge immersive learning laboratory, marking a significant milestone in the integration of AR/VR/AI technology in education. The event brought together leading immersive learning researchers from Japan and Asia, as well as prospective students eager to explore the potential of these emerging technologies.

The most striking feature of the lab is the innovative immersive shared VR space known as the ‘U Theatre,’ designed to enable groups to collectively participate in virtual experiences. The U Theatre was developed with the support of the Department of Global Tourism and the IT Support Staff, including the invaluable contributions of Manabu Nakahara. The brainchild of Professor Eric Hawkinson, the U Theatre will be utilized by students to present virtual tours they have developed as part of the ‘My Hometown Project.’
The ‘My Hometown Project’ is designed to provide vocational training for tourism students and teach new media design skills for future careers. The aim is to empower learners with hands-on experience and industry-relevant expertise, while fostering a learning environment that nurtures creativity, collaboration, and innovation. In addition to the U Theatre, Professor Hawkinson has developed an augmented reality application tailored for the immersive learning laboratory. This tool enables students and researchers to rapidly prototype augmented reality experiences, fostering experimentation and pushing the boundaries of what is possible with AR technology.
The immersive learning laboratory is expected to host numerous events and workshops related to the application of AR and VR technologies in education. Keep an eye out for announcements about future events, as the Kyoto University of Foreign Studies continues to lead the way in advancing immersive learning experiences.

In conclusion, the Faculty of Global Engagement at the Kyoto University of Foreign Studies has taken a significant step towards redefining the educational landscape with the introduction of the immersive learning laboratory. The U Theatre, ‘My Hometown Project,’ and augmented reality rapid prototyping tool collectively demonstrate the immense potential of AR/VR/AI technology in transforming the way we teach and learn. As the university continues to push the boundaries of immersive learning, we eagerly anticipate the groundbreaking innovations that will emerge from this exciting new space.