Interactive Media and Design student Bella MacCulloch. Photo by Bryan Gagnon
Bella MacCulloch, a third-year co-op student in the Interactive Media and Design (IMD) program is helping the Experiential Learning Hub (ELH) make strides in exploring the development of virtual reality experiences for teaching and learning purposes.
As part of her co-op placement at the ELH, Bella is crafting a Biochemistry virtual reality experience that makes the invisible, visible.” We are trying to test whether or not VR may help students understand processes in photosynthesis that happen at a scale not normally visible to the human eye,” says Bella.
While the ELH primarily focuses on supporting instructors and students using existing VR experiences, Bella has been helping the ELH team better understand what is involved in the development of VR experiences and what an IMD student might be able to support for a small development project in collaboration with an instructor. Her wealth of technical knowledge, enthusiasm for VR development, and student perspective have been invaluable to the ELH team.
Bella, who boasts a robust background in visual arts from Canterbury High School and is currently excelling in Carleton’s program, has faced the typical challenges of XR design. She notes that while XR offers promising enhancements in user interaction, translating these possibilities into a seamless, immersive experience remains challenging due to the current technological limitations and user familiarity.
Bella says the key is finding that sweet spot where the user feels both guided and in control:
“It’s about striking the right balance between guiding the user and allowing them to feel a sense of agency within the virtual world.”
The project has been a valuable learning experience for Bella, especially around collaboration. Initially tackling the design, coding, and asset creation single-handedly, she soon realized the benefits of seeking assistance. The support from the seasoned professionals at ELH has been instrumental, underscoring the importance of teamwork and mentorship in achieving high-quality results.
Interactive Media and Design student Bella MacCulloch at the computer. Photo by Bryan Gagnon.
Looking ahead, she is enthusiastic about her future career possibilities. While she remains open to various tech roles, Bella says, “It has been my dream since I was a kid to make a video game, so at some point, I would like to work for a video game company.”
As Bella continues to develop her skills and gain experience, she is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the world of digital design and interactive media. Her dedication and innovative approach exemplify the bright future that awaits her.