LABS ONLINE – An Opportunity to Access High Quality Laboratory During COVID Breakout

Abstract

Context: Students and job seekers are not getting any labs or practical experience using machines to be industry ready during the lockdown. Expensive machines are not accessible to these in general resulting in missed opportunities. Holistic remote learning of theory and lab is the need of the hour. With no proper remote training, their entire career will be at stake possibly causing damage to the machine or personal safety.

How can a great lab experience be offered remotely? The skills that Aarush has to acquire is challenging without good lab experiences.

Solution Approach:

• OpenGL on the web browser provides a 3D lab like experience to users from the comfort of their home.

• Using open source technology makes the solution cost effective. Technologies like Blender to create 3D models, A-frame for web framework for VR, Skectchfab for 3D marketplace, WebAR, Coffeescript etc.

• Users who are students and job seekers get an effective lab experience and worry less about burdening parents financially.

• Using Google cardboard can be an alternate solution for development in the future.

Viability:

• Futuristic technology that is not too expensive.

• The solution is viable for any time, however the lockdown has accelerated the urgency of such learning platforms.

• Collaborative and team learning features in the product stresses the fact “during lockdown, remote learning need not be learning alone, it can be learning along”

• It is the design for the new normal.

• The product is driven “by the community - for the community” to reach the masses in general. For example, 3D modellers develop the models, The teachers use the solution to enhance experience, students benefit with the viable solution and be confidently career ready.