Labster CEO Shawn Boom on The Higher Ed Geek Podcast

About the Episode

Host Dustin Ramsdell chats with Shawn Boom, CEO of Labster, about the transformative power of immersive learning technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). Shawn shares how Labster is reshaping the educational landscape, particularly in STEM fields, by providing students with hands-on, immersive learning experiences. These technologies not only make learning more accessible and engaging but also help students gain the confidence they need to thrive in high-demand fields like healthcare and STEM. They discuss the challenges in education today, from shrinking student populations to the need for relevant, modern learning experiences.

Listen to the episode

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Key Takeaways:

• Immersive technology like VR and AR is revolutionizing STEM education by providing safe, hands-on learning environments.
• Addressing the capacity challenges in higher ed, Labster’s virtual labs help institutions scale up STEM courses and engage more students.
• Soft skills and technical competence can both be enhanced through virtual simulations, preparing students for real-world applications.
• The future of higher ed lies in adaptive technologies that bridge the gap between traditional and modern learning methods.

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Episode Summary:

How is immersive technology shaping education?

One of the key topics discussed is the role of immersive technologies like Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) in transforming education. Labster’s 3D simulations allow students to practice STEM concepts in virtual labs, making learning more engaging. By providing a “sandbox” environment, students can interact with models and conduct experiments, which helps them grasp complex topics. Shawn highlights how tools like these not only improve learning outcomes but also build student confidence, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

How can virtual learning environments help solve capacity issues in higher education?

Capacity constraints in higher education, particularly in hands-on STEM courses, have always been a challenge. Traditional labs have limited space and resources, but Labster’s virtual labs offer a scalable solution. These tools allow institutions to expand their course offerings by 25%, giving more students access to essential learning experiences without the need for physical lab spaces. As a result, immersive simulations can help institutions overcome these bottlenecks, ultimately improving student enrollment and engagement in STEM disciplines.

How do immersive technologies prepare students for real-world challenges?

The episode emphasizes how immersive learning doesn’t just enhance technical skills but also prepares students for real-world scenarios. Shawn shares stories of nursing students who, through Labster's immersive environments, are able to practice both the technical aspects and the interpersonal skills required in healthcare settings. For example, one student repeatedly practiced a simulation of treating a patient with COPD, gaining confidence to the point where she felt fully prepared to work with real patients. This blend of technical and soft skills training helps reduce attrition rates in demanding fields like healthcare.

As Shawn puts it, the goal is to create low-risk, high-impact environments where students can experiment and learn from their mistakes. These tools are invaluable not just for traditional learners but also for reskilling adult learners entering high-demand fields like healthcare and engineering.

What keeps Shawn optimistic about the future of education?

Shawn shares a hopeful outlook on the future of education, driven by student engagement with new technologies. He highlights how today's learners are clear about their goals and the impact they want to have on the world, and technologies like VR and AR are helping them get there. The ability to democratize education and break down barriers to entry through immersive tools ensures that even students who may have felt intimidated by STEM can succeed. This optimism fuels Labster’s mission to continue developing innovative educational tools that meet the evolving needs of students and institutions alike.

About the Show: The Higher Ed Geek Podcast explores the impact of edtech on the student experience by speaking with diverse leaders from institutions, companies, and nonprofit organizations. Each week we aim to provide an engaging, fun, and relevant dose of professional development that honors the wide range of work happening all across the higher ed ecosystem. Come geek out with us! The Higher Ed Geek Podcast is hosted by Dustin Ramsdell and is a proud member of the Enrollify Podcast Network.