USJ Partners with Virtual Reality Company

Published On: November 15, 2023Categories: Reader Contributed, Schools

University of Saint Joseph. Photo credit: Ronni Newton (we-ha.com file photo)

An innovative partnership between the University of Saint Joseph in West Hartford and VRSim will shape the future of computer science education.

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The University of Saint Joseph (USJ) recently announced its partnership with VRSim, an East Hartford-based leading provider of virtual reality (VR) training solutions for skilled trades. This will train computer science, mathematics, and science students in simulation and modeling development concepts and tools – a market that is growing in demand across a variety of industries.

“Serious Gaming and Real-World Simulation,” the first in a three-part educational series on the need for simulation and the nature of simulation software, will be held in USJ’s Lourdes Hall Nov. 15, led by VRSim’s CEO Matthew Wallace and Software Development Manager Alejo Fudge.

Wallace will also join USJ’s computer science board to represent his industry in future curricular planning.

“Successful programs in computer science require strong industry partnerships to facilitate student exposure to real-world applications of advanced technologies,” said USJ Associate Professor of Mathematics and Computer Science Tom Calabrese, Ph.D. “We are excited to work with VRSim CEO and President Matthew Wallace and his team to provide our students with cooperative learning opportunities focused on simulation and modeling.”

USJ President Rhona Free attended an open house at the company’s East Hartford headquarters, where they demonstrated how its immersive painter training prepares workers for the building and aerospace trades and how it will aid in various areas of healthcare training.

“We are inspired by the latest cutting-edge technology developed by VSRim and are excited about incorporating this immersive, hands-on experience into our computer science curriculum,” said President Free. “We hope the training sessions with the VRSim teams will encourage our students to consider capstone projects and internships with VRSim to further their knowledge and exposure to this technology.”

USJ will be incorporating this learning in course selections and is making several curriculum changes to include instruction in this technology.

“Considering how the need to build real-time simulations is projected to grow, our interest in these areas is considerable,” said Dr. Calabrese. “We’re very excited to see the positive impact this partnership will have on our students.”

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