VR Development Paves the Way for Sustainable Retailing Education
The University of Arizona, in collaboration with the Terry J. Lundgren Center, is spearheading a groundbreaking initiative to transform sustainability education through virtual reality (VR) technology. Professor Soo Hyun Kim, Ph.D., a leading figure in retail technology, is at the helm of this innovative effort. Dr. Kim's research highlights the profound impact of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, VR, and Augmented Reality (AR) on the retail sector.
In conjunction with the launch of the Lundgren Consumer Science Lab this Fall, a team of interdisciplinary interns from the University's AI Core has created a "digital twin" of the lab using cutting-edge tools like Unreal Engine 5. This virtual replica, along with the physical lab in McClelland Park, will enable students and faculty to study store optimization through real consumer activity. The integration of VR technology aims to enhance operational efficiency, boost customer engagement, and prepare future retail leaders for an evolving industry landscape.
The program, which seeks additional funding for a phased rollout over the next two years, will pilot VR modules in sustainable fashion during the 2024-2025 academic year. Future phases will expand to include sustainable practices in food and household products. The initiative is expected to increase student engagement and deepen understanding of sustainability concepts through immersive VR experiences, setting a new standard for sustainability education and fostering leadership in the green economy.