Loughborough University Plans to Bring in Holographic Avatars of Late Celebrity Scientists into the Classroom
Loughborough University is set to revolutionize the education sector by introducing holographic avatars of renowned scientists, including the late Stephen Hawking, into its curriculum. The pioneering use of holographic technology aims to provide students with a more engaging and immersive learning experience.
The University has partnered with LA-based firm Proto to explore the possibilities of holography in various fields. This cutting-edge technology allows for realistic and interactive presentations, surpassing traditional 2D methods or video calls. Proto’s founder, David Nussbaum, envisions a future where anyone, living or dead, can be brought back to life as a holographic avatar.
Nussbaum explained that the avatars created through their technology would look and sound like the real person, offering an awe-inspiring and jaw-dropping experience. With the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), these avatars could interact with students, answering questions and engaging in discussions, just as the real scientist would have.
While there are legal hurdles to overcome, the potential of this technology is vast. Not only could it bring long-dead scientists back to the classroom, but it could also create avatars of living experts, opening up a new era of immersive learning. Nussbaum envisions a future where affordable holographic units become available for home use, projecting shrunken images akin to Wonkavision from Roald Dahl’s classic, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
The implications of this technology extend far beyond the education sector, with possible applications in various fields. However, Nussbaum is committed to making this innovative learning tool accessible and affordable for everyone. He plans to introduce smaller, affordable units within the next 18 months, priced under $1,000.
Loughborough University’s initiative to integrate holographic avatars into its curriculum reflects a growing trend in using advanced technology to enhance the learning experience. By embracing holography, students will have the opportunity to connect with some of the most brilliant minds of the 20th and 21st centuries.
As this remarkable technology continues to develop, it brings with it countless possibilities for education and beyond. The use of holographic avatars in classrooms could transform the way students learn, bridging the gap between the past and the present. With holograms working alongside or even competing with living university lecturers, students are in for an education like no other.
In the coming years, Loughborough University plans to be at the forefront of this educational revolution, bringing iconic scientists back to life in the form of holographic avatars. As students step into classrooms of the future, they may find themselves face-to-face with the likes of Stephen Hawking, engaging in discussions and gaining insights from scientific pioneers in a way never seen before. The future of education is fast approaching, and it looks holographically exciting.
