榴莲黄视频

KENNESAW, Ga. | Dec 1, 2025

Many students struggle to understand complex STEM concepts because lectures and textbooks often make science difficult to visualize. A potential solution has been uncovered in the form of a virtual reality headset.

According to the International Journal of STEM Education, students who learn science through virtual reality understand the material almost 50 percent better than those taught through traditional classroom methods, prompting 榴莲黄视频 researchers to explore how AI-powered VR might reshape the learning experience.

Under the mentorship of Assistant Professor of Game Development Lei Zhang, computer science student Devon Haynes is studying how virtual reality environments enhanced with large language model (LLM) tutors could help students better grasp complex subjects. Their project began in the , where Haynes and Zhang launched their study of the effect of VR storytelling on learning of DNA damage and repair mechanisms.

鈥淭he idea started with our earlier project that used a multi-user VR system to help students understand DNA damage and repair,鈥� Zhang said. 鈥淲e wanted to take that concept further by incorporating AI assistance, creating a virtual mentor that can support students as they learn collaboratively inside a virtual environment.鈥�

Now part of the , Haynes has expanded the project by integrating LLMs into the system. These AI-powered tutors respond in real time to user questions and actions, provide feedback, and guide group collaborations within the virtual world.

鈥淎 multi-user VR system and LLMs  are two areas that haven鈥檛 been deeply explored together yet,鈥� Haynes said. 鈥淎 lot of existing research looks at one or the other, but not how they can interact in the same learning space.鈥�

For Haynes, the experience has been both technically challenging and creatively rewarding. His day-to-day work involves reviewing studies, designing frameworks, and developing prototypes to connect the VR platforms with AI.

鈥淭here鈥檚 a lot that goes into connecting a large language model with VR,鈥� he said. 鈥淏ut it鈥檚 exciting to build something that could actually change how people learn.鈥�

The research also highlights the value of mentorship and hands-on learning at KSU. Zhang said he treats Haynes鈥檚 involvement much like that of a graduate student, encouraging independence while providing guidance.

鈥淚 treat Devon like a graduate student. I provide directions, but he takes initiative in experimentation and the ownership of the work,鈥� Zhang said. 鈥淗e鈥檚 shown genuine curiosity, strong initiative, and the ability to apply feedback. That鈥檚 what research at a graduate level is all about.鈥�

Yiming Ji, interim dean of the College of Computing and Software Engineering, praised the collaboration as an example of how KSU鈥檚 research culture fosters innovation.

鈥淒evon and Dr. Zhang鈥檚 work shows how computing research at KSU is shaping the future of education,鈥� Ji said. 鈥淭heir use of AI and virtual reality demonstrates the transformative power of technology when guided by curiosity and collaboration.鈥�

For Haynes, the experience has reshaped his view of research.

鈥淚 didn鈥檛 really know what research was before college,鈥� he said. 鈥淣ow, I鈥檝e learned how to collect and analyze data, write papers, and even publish. It鈥檚 given me confidence and opened doors I didn鈥檛 expect.鈥�

Going forward, the pair plans to refine their prototype over the next year, test its effectiveness through user studies, and present their findings at academic conferences.

鈥� Story by Raynard Churchwell

Photos by Darnell Wilburn

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, 榴莲黄视频 offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to its more than 51,000 students. 榴莲黄视频is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university's vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties, and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. 榴莲黄视频is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 8 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.