Role of Immersive Simulation and Cyber Technology based Approaches in Supporting Learning and Curriculum Innovation

This paper focuses on the emergence of cyber technologies and immersive simulation-based approaches in supporting curriculum innovation and learning. A discussion of three thrusts involving immersive simulation and cyber technologies is presented. The first thrust focuses on innovative learning activities involving space systems concepts that revolved around the creation of 3D VR based immersive simulation environments for NASA's Deep Space Mission process contexts. The second thrust involves the need to expose and encourage students towards entrepreneurial activities involving information-centric and cyber manufacturing principles. The third thrust involves the creation of 3D Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) to support autistic students to learn science and engineering concepts interactively using both immersive and haptic interfaces.