A 3D experience in the CAVE2 TM facility to demonstrate the structure and function of parts of the cell membrane within the context of the whole cell. This simulation demonstrates the movement of water molecules through a special protein channel called the aquaporin, that acts as a conduit spanning the phospholipid bilayer of the cell membrane. This process is driven by a solute concentration gradient depicted by stylised potassium ions and the inherent Brownian motion of all molecules. The experience follows the path of water molecules from outside the cell, through the aquaporin, to the inside of the cell. Used as a teaching resource in LFS100 Cell Biology and an engagement resource in open days and public tours of the CAVE2TM facility.
Description
Medium: Virtual reality 3D experience using the CAVE2TM.
Description
Physical Description: Experience is a 5-10 minute guided tour of the 3D simulation in the USC CAVE2 facility.
Description
The creators were the recipients of a USC Advance Award (2017) for excellence in teaching in the blended learning environment and the work has been showcased at numerous international and domestic conferences. The work is funded through a competitive Commissioned Learning and Teaching Grant at the University of the Sunshine Coast.