Building on Baktybek’s virtual lab and working to his specifications, Carolina created the procedures and experiments. Hand animations were used to simulate the basic actions and movements needed to perform the tests, including the manipulation of test tubes, petri dishes, and incubator doors. Carolina Biological then animated the transilluminator, water bath lids, and timers, rounding out one of the most realistic remote lab experiences ever created.For his efforts, Baktybek received an Epic MegaGrant, and with the help of Carolina Biological, brought the simulator to market. Following a two-year beta conducted by Baktybek’s students, the Biotechnology Simulator was released under a one-year license agreement for single users and classrooms, specifically geared toward high schools and colleges. Four separate bacterial lessons are currently available, representing six hours of dynamic content for teachers to break out.
The next experiment
In many ways, the Carolina Biotechnology Simulator is an experiment in its own right. But with each success, the idea of a comprehensive virtual lab program looks more promising.
“The feedback we’ve been getting from teachers has been phenomenal; the simulator is really speaking to students who enjoy the game-like nature of the lessons,” says Biscocho. “That’s not just validating—it also makes us want to design more lessons for them in the future. There’s a world of possibility in a virtual lab, and since we already have a strong base in Unreal, the question really becomes: Where do we want to go next?”
Source: Unreal Engine Blog