2022 · Software Engineer

VR Microscopy Learning Environment

Immersive 3D VR environment for teaching microscopy in biology, built with Blender and Unity using Design Thinking at UTN.

  • unity
  • blender
  • vr
  • 3d
  • design-thinking
  • education

Built at Universidad Técnica del Norte (November 2021 — October 2022) as a pedagogical tool for biology students learning microscopy.

The idea #

Lab time on real microscopes is scarce. A virtual reality environment lets students rehearse the procedure, manipulate samples and explore at scales that the physical equipment can’t easily reproduce.

What I built #

  • Modeled the lab, the microscope and the specimens in Blender.
  • Wired interaction, focus, magnification and guided exercises in Unity.
  • Followed a Design Thinking process with educators and fellow students to shape the lessons and the interactions.

What I learned #

Pacing matters more than fidelity. A simpler 3D scene with the right feedback loop teaches more than a photorealistic one with confusing controls.