What is XR?
XR (Extended Reality), is an umbrella term encompassing several types of immersive technologies including VR (Virtual Reality), AR (Augmented Reality), and MR (Mixed Reality). Two distinct spaces are available for both the exploration of and development in XR, the LETs Lab and the Student Developer Lab. Additionally, resources and support are available to those interested in exploring the fields of XR for course use, research, or development.
THTR 090
Mixed Reality at Lehigh
Students performing an original commedia dell'arte using AR filters they created.
POP 003
Empathy Building Experiences
Student viewing the VR experience Traveling While Black
Astrophysics
Immersive Data Visualization
Student plotting starchart coordinates in VR
THTR 095
3D Development
Students showcasing objects created in Cinema 4D in their immersive development class.
Campus Support
Below is a list of just a few classes and programs that we have supported with XR.
Classes
ASTR 302, Introduction to Galactic and Extragalactic Astrophysics
ENGL 005, Composition and Literature II for Multilingual Writers
THTR/ART/DES 095, Immersive Design: 3D World Building and Digital Interaction
SOC/AAS/WGSS 197, Black Identity and Gender Politics
Programs & Offices
- Marcon Institute Fellows
StepUp Program (ICAPE)
Iacocca Global Entrepreneurship Intensive
Creative Inquiry Project, An Archive of Queer Care
And More!
XR in the LETs Lab
Designed to be a collaborative space on campus, LETs Lab creates an environment for students, faculty, and staff to experiment with emerging and advancing technologies (e.g., XR, Generative AI, GIS and drone technology) and consult with staff who support these technologies.
Students and faculty can explore VR and its related technologies in the LETs Lab. The lab is available for classroom VR experiences and offers access to a wide variety of academically relevant content utilizing both the Meta Quest, Apple Vision Pro and the HTC Vive. Students can experience VR individually, or in small groups, under the guidance of an experienced lab assistant. Faculty can request a consultation to discuss how VR can be best utilized and are welcome to explore and test the many applications themselves.
The LETs Lab is a collaboration between ITS and the Office of Arts & Libraries, created to promote engagement with emerging academic technologies.
The Student Developer Lab
The Student Developer Lab is a dedicated space for Lehigh students interested in the design, development, and testing of gamified or simulation based applications, experiences and projects - both in the realms of Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, or even 2D. The lab offers students the ability to work collaboratively, as well as independently, on all aspects of development utilizing an array of devices and technologies. Students have unlimited access to the space to design, create, share ideas, and test each other's work. Learn more here.