UMaine demos gesture-based math program at virtual reality expo, WABI reports
WABI (Channel 5) covered the Virtual Reality Immersive Expo hosted by the Maine Department of Education and Maine State Library in Augusta. The event allowed Maine educators to discuss how they’re using virtual technology in their curriculum and demo some groundbreaking programs, WABI reported. The University of Maine’s Immersive Mathematics in Rendered Environments lab showed off HandWaver. Developed by students and recent graduates, the gesture-based program lets learners use their hands to explore mathematical objects in virtual three-dimensional space. “The idea is to be able to create an environment where learners at all levels can use gestures and natural movements of their hands to make and explore mathematical figures,” said Justin Dimmel, an assistant professor of mathematics education and instructional technology at UMaine.