Students’ Involvement The development of the VR Courtroom Game was a collaborative effort that involved significant contributions from undergraduate students: Sabelo Zindela (CBE), Andile Thabethe (CBE), Cebolenkosi Gumpo (CBE), Shawn van der Merwe (CBE), Jackie Musakwa (Faculty of Science), Ruan Bezuidenhout (Faculty of Science), and Jose Hyman (CBE). Under the leadership of Prof. Abejide Ade-Ibijola, the students from the JBS Innovation Lab were actively involved in the project. These students, pursuing bachelor’s degrees in various fields, participated in a work-integrated learning scheme providing practical experience in software development and game design. Image 3: Undergraduate students collaboratively engaged in the development of the VR Courtroom Game The project also formed part of the GRIT Lab Africa social initiative, which aims to equip African youth with essential technical skills and foster innovation across the continent. Through their involvement in the VR Courtroom Game, students gained valuable experience in creating immersive digital environments and contributed to developing cutting-edge educational tools. The work-integrated learning experience gave students a comprehensive understanding of game development’s technical and creative aspects. They participated in various project stages, including brainstorming sessions, scenario design, technical execution, and testing. This firsthand experience enhanced their academic knowledge and prepared them for future careers in technology and innovation. Image 3: Undergraduate students collaboratively engaged in the development of the VR Courtroom Game The development of the VR Courtroom Game was a collaborative effort that involved significant contributions from undergraduate students... The project also formed part of the GRIT Lab Africa social initiative, which aims to equip African youth with essential technical skills and foster innovation across the continent. Technical Design Specification The VR Courtroom Game’s technical design highlights the capabilities of modern technology in creating immersive learning experiences. Developed using Unity3D, a leading game development engine, the game features a highly interactive virtual environment. Unity3D allowed for the creation of detailed 3D models and realistic simulations, providing a visually engaging and immersive experience for users. AI scripts were integrated into the game to enhance character behaviour and interactions. For example, waypoint navigation was implemented for vehicles, and non-player characters (NPCs) were programmed to move and interact dynamically within different scenes. This AI integration adds a layer of realism to the virtual courtroom, making the simulations more authentic and engaging. C# was used for scripting various tasks within the game, including randomising scenarios to ensure that each playthrough offers a unique experience. This approach allows students to encounter different legal situations each time they play, enhancing the re-playability of the game, as well as the educational value of the game. Blender was employed to design and animate highquality 3D models and characters, ensuring the virtual courtroom environment was visually appealing and functional. Teaching Innovation for the 21st Century | Showcasing UJ Teaching Innovation Projects 2024 126
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