The Client

Kiel University (Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel), specifically their chemistry department. They partnered with the IPN Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education to create the DiVEx research project, which helps first-year students start their practical lab courses with confidence.

The Challenge

Entering a university chemistry laboratory for the first time causes significant stress and anxiety for many first-year students due to academic pressure and unfamiliar, hazardous environments. Kiel University wanted a safe way for students to practice before using the real room. Although one of the goals was to create an accessible “digital twin” of their specific laboratory, the core challenge was making this virtual workspace a highly realistic training experience that stands up to strict scientific standards while staying simple enough for complete VR beginners to use. We needed to build advanced interactive systems from scratch to let students physically pour and mix chemicals that react dynamically, simulate a functional Bunsen burner where turning valves accurately changes the flame, and program substances or pH-paper to shift colors instantly depending on the chemical reactions.

The Solution

A standalone, fully immersive 3D VR laboratory training application optimized for the Vive XR Elite and built utilizing the OpenXR framework. While originally designed for the Vive XR Elite, this setup allowed us to easily adapt the software so it runs perfectly on the Meta Quest 3 as well. The application acts as a digital replica of the CAU laboratory. It features realistic lighting and continuous ambient background noise from the exhaust air systems to maximize immersion. To keep the onboarding process effortless for students, all interactions like navigating, grabbing, mixing, and pouring are mapped to a single button: the controller trigger. Occasionally a second button is needed for more complex interactions.

Standing Out: Unique Features and Tech

The most advanced parts of the app focus on realistic chemistry actions and accessibility.

• Interactive Chemistry: The app features a realistic pouring system where liquids mix dynamically. It also includes a fully working Bunsen burner with flame tests, responsive pH-paper tests, and an in-app 360-degree video playthrough.
• Easy and Hard Modes: Students can choose their own pace, adjusting how many helpful hints they receive while working.
• Smart Color Blindness System: For students who struggle to see colors, we built a dynamic pop-up screen. When looking at any liquid container, this screen displays a live text description showing the exact current color of the substance.
• Language Options: The entire application is fully playable in both German and English.
• Visual Snapping: A drag-and-drop mechanics system highlights objects with a silhouette outline, allowing items to automatically snap into place at designated stations.

Clear Evaluation and Tracking

The app helps students learn through their mistakes. Visual arrows appear on screen to point them in the right direction if needed. While students answer quiz questions as they go, the app also tracks their actions in the background, if too many mistakes are made students need to replay a part. Furthermore, the app gives instant feedback if they make mistakes, like throwing away dangerous waste in the wrong bin, which helps researchers see how much the students are learning.