Learningverse brings the metaverse straight to your browser

Professor Song Yanjie from the Department of Mathematics and Information Technology (MIT) and her research team have enhanced Learningverse to a web-based online metaverse platform that enables 3D collaborative learning directly in the browser. Building on the earlier version, the new web-based Learningverse platform lowers hardware requirements while retaining key immersive features, making metaverse-supported education more accessible in standard classroom settings.

Web-based Learningverse is a 3D metaverse platform for interactive and collaborative learning activities. It allows learners to co-construct knowledge, interact with digital objects and work together on complex, real-world problems through multi-user collaboration. Its design supports synchronous communication, shared virtual workspaces and scenario-based activities, offering educators a versatile tool for innovative pedagogy.

The new Learningverse platform has already been implemented in a master’s-level course with more than 100 postgraduate students. Working in small groups, students engaged in interactive science learning scenarios within the platform and demonstrated strong participation, active collaboration and active exploration of ideas.

Learningverse is powered by advanced artificial intelligence technologies, providing an immersive, intelligent, and personalised learning experience. “The successful deployment of web-based Learningverse has enhanced immersive learning environments, showcasing its potential to support innovative teaching strategies in higher education. It marks a significant step in translating research-driven educational technologies into practical applications and advances AI-mediated, immersive learning,” said Professor Song Yanjie, who also leads the Research Cluster on AI & Metaverse in Education. She added that the application of Learningverse is not limited to academic areas but can be extended to business, technology, the arts, and more.

In a lecture on the metaverse in education for a group of students from a master’s programme, Professor Song explains how the platform can enhance immersive learning.

Students show strong interest in using the web-based Learningverse to learn collaboratively.