Image: Artec 3D automated micro scanner

UNE Communications recently caught up with Greg Dorian, Manager Learning Media Digital Education to learn more about the team’s activities. Here’s what he had to say about UNE’s educational media production house – the Learning Media team!

As a vital component of the Digital Education Portfolio within Education Futures, the team is dedicated to the creation, support and education surrounding high-quality digital learning experiences in a digital-first approach. They work alongside learning designers, academics and other stakeholders as part of the creative process to explore what’s possible with existing and emerging technologies.

So what do you do? 

I’m glad you asked, we have recently developed a website which offers an overview of our services, whilst also showcasing our collaborations with UNE academics and third space staff. Dive into our case studies to witness firsthand the impact of our collaborations across various disciplines.

We also boast four high-definition recording studios located on the Armidale campus. With cutting-edge equipment and expert support, these studios are the perfect environment to realise your creative vision. Since their upgrade in 2023 (in partnership with TDS), these studios have facilitated over 400 recordings, showcasing the growing demand for high-quality educational media. Our studios offer a range of support options, from fully assisted sessions with our qualified media staff to self-service facilities for those who prefer a hands-on approach. Visit our website to learn more about our studio options and schedule a tour with Greg Dorrian at gdorria2@une.edu.au.

What are you excited about at the moment? 

We’re very excited about the uptake and development in the 3D space – particularly with 3D digitising. We can take a physical teaching artefact and make an accurate digital replica. This often presents a better experience than physical artefacts through access, notetaking (annotations), non-destructive handling, adjustable lighting configurations, and dissecting (where applicable).  

We currently have several methods to capture this information – a photogrammetry set-up (camera, turntable and light tent), a handheld scanner (Artec Space Spider) utilising both photogrammetry technologies and light-based scanning down to a sub-millimetre accuracy, and, in partnership with the Museum of Antiquities, access to an automated scanner (Artec Micro) for automatically digitising smaller artefacts. Not to mention the expertise to access and use this hardware. UNE also has access to CT scanners for capturing internal structures which is perfect for non-destructive dissecting of 3D models.

This equipment is the doorway to mixed realities (MX – AR, VR), 3D printing, and truly immersive content – an area that is currently exploding globally and we love designing ways to build this innovative technology for our students. You can see some examples here.

What are you looking forward to? 

The Learning Media team has always been at the forefront of cutting-edge media technologies, and our anticipation lies in the continued convergence of these technologies. Today, the boundaries between different media types blur as technologies intertwine. For instance, 3D animations now enhance filming sequencing, drone footage is used for videography, as well as, 360 mapping for 3D environments (MX), and 3D environments work beautifully with 3D scanned artefacts. We are also witnessing the integration of AI (artificial intelligence) in media development which opens up new possibilities in media production. This interplay of technologies enables our team to soar to new heights, leveraging each staff member’s expertise to explore innovative avenues for student learning. As we draw inspiration from one another, we’re excited to pioneer new, enhanced learning experiences for students.

With state-of-the-art recording studios, cutting-edge 3D digitising technology, and a dedicated team of experts, we are committed to crafting high-quality digital learning experiences that transcend traditional boundaries. We invite you to join us on this journey as we push the boundaries of educational media production and pioneer new pathways for student engagement and success. Together, let’s unlock the potential of digital learning and shape the future of education at UNE and beyond.