Making Lessons A Journey, Not A Lecture: Vijay Albuquerque, Saras-3D

The capability to assist and promote collaboration and shared experiences is one of the most significant affordances of 3D technology. And this leads to possibly the most important result of the use of 3D technologies in education - their capability to improve active and experiential learning. Saras-3D is a 3D interactive learning solution; it offers a comprehensive 3D Interactive Virtual Reality Learning App with associated hardware for K-12 Science and Mathematics education. 

Edited excerpts from BW Education's recent chat with Vijay Albuquerque, CEO, Saras Inc (Saras-3D):

Can you please elaborate on Stereoscopic 3D technology-based learning and how will it benefit students?

Saras-3D's Genius 3D Learning System is India's first stereoscopic learning experience that is based on 3D technology and uses the power of interactive visualization. By helping students grasp complex Science and Mathematics concepts, it lays the right foundation for knowledge acquisition. It is available to everyone without requiring the internet to access content and is designed to empower today's aspiring and curious minds. This results-driven, hands-on learning tool aids students as they study at home independently at their own pace. Students can now actively learn through the topic rather than imagining concepts or memorising rotely. This learning-by-doing approach of Genius 3D Learning promotes 2 folds faster learning, in-depth understanding and improved recall, helping students secure improved academic scores.

How will this technology complement, the current teaching methodology teachers and students are already using?

Saras-3D's Genius 3D Learning System aims to create a solid foundation for teaching and learning, thereby empowering future STEM innovators to compete and succeed globally. It is a blended learning platform that enhances how teachers retain students' attention by bringing the topic to life through 3D interaction, making the lesson a journey, not a lecture. The fun and exciting nature of the third dimension maintains a student's focus. Elements of VR and AR combine on all-in-one computers to create learning experiences that are immersive, interactive and lifelike. It enables students to 'learn by doing' in an environment where mistakes are reversible and there are no material costs or clean-up.

We have seen adaption of new technology has its own set of challenges; how will you be able to circumvent them in a country like India?

Our product is truly unique, as its virtual gamification feature keeps students engaged whether in a classroom or learning at home. The first ever experience of 'playing with the object' enables hands-on learning through 3D visualisations and interactive simulations. This experience makes explaining topics easier and faster for teachers. When both students and teachers start experiencing concepts in their own reality, they automatically develop a sense of excitement to make more use of this technology. Our flexible infrastructure makes the tool accessible to all students, even if they don't have regular internet access.

What has been the response from schools and students and what is your marketing plan going forward?

We are partnering with schools and institutes to integrate our technology into their existing systems. The response has been great so far. Parents are also adopting Saras-3D to help their children study from home more effectively. Our aim is to make the tool accessible to everyone everywhere and our team of trained professionals is working hard to achieve this goal.

The education sector is at the cusp of digital evolution in India and self-study is taking precedent over current education formats, how do you see the education space evolve in the future?

With the advancement in technology and digitised education, it is now apparent that the way we educate our children is ripe for innovation. This moment is an opportunity for educators to take the time to identify what is working and what isn't. They can bring the needed shift by looking at problems as steps toward a solution and prioritising the most important steps to tackle. It is also a moment for parents (a child's first educators) to rethink how their children learn. We have identified the gaps in learning and wish to contribute to the sustainable development of the nation by attaining excellence in technical education and research while accelerating the transformation of students into responsible citizens and competent professionals.