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The WSU Libraries presents The Dimensions Lab – WSU Libraries open access Digital Makerspace
On September 8th, we opened the Dimensions Lab, an open access digital makerspace, on the first floor of Holland Library next to the microforms area (http://libraries.wsu.edu/news/new-high-tech-lab-available-holland-library). Currently the lab is equipped with 12 computers (Mac and PC) with the full suite of Microsoft and Adobe software installed, ergonomic workspaces, a Lynda Kiosk (http://www.lynda.com), an Oculus Rift VR headset and development station (https://www.oculus.com/en-us/rift/), and an onsite IT assistant during the busiest hours from 10am-2pm.
As technology advances, students and faculty across the globe are increasingly engaging with academics and education in a digital or virtual format; professors are requesting videos instead of papers, students are studying accurate 3D models instead of textbooks. In order to keep pace with the changing landscape of academia, the WSU Libraries have committed to providing the support and resources today’s students need in order to participate with their education in a way that reflects the modern world.
Unfortunately, the advanced makerspaces on campus like The FIZ , while incredible in the scope and variety of hardware and software they provide, are often intimidating to students outside traditional technology majors or who may be just learning to use these technologies. Our hope with the Dimensions lab is to provide a running start for undeclared and nontraditional tech majors to begin exploring the ways these technologies can enhance their education and understanding.
The dimensions lab is currently set up to meet the basic needs of almost any 2D digital design project.
But….
Traditional 2D video and image editing is quickly becoming overtaken by the need and desire for 3D imagining and photogrammetry (http://www.photogrammetry.com/) . The ability to capture a 3D object, render it on a computer, and create something completely new, is invaluable to students from every department. Whether they are studying an artifact for anthropology, a dancer’s pose for an art class, buildings for architecture, or molecular models for chemistry, this technology opens the door to a whole new way of learning.
Professional high resolution DSLR cameras, professional photography lighting equipment, and 3D scanners http://www.nextengine.com/ will allow students to digitize anything they might need, while advanced imaging and editing software http://www.agisoft.com/community/showcase/ will allow them render, manipulate, and study the things they’ve scanned or photographed.
With the acquisition of and HP Sprout http://store.hp.com/us/en/pdp/desktops/sprout-immersive-computer-by-hp , a student can take a small scale object in the real world, scan it, edit it, and recreate it, all in one easy to use space.
Our Goal of $20,000 would allow us to purchase the equipment and software we need in order to create a truly explorative, innovative environment. Please help us make this dream a reality by selecting a giving level on the right hand side, or choose your own gift amount by using the “Give To WSU” button at the top.
If you can’t give, please consider sharing this project with your friends and family by using the "Share" links below our video. The more people who hear about our project, the more likely we are to reach our goal!
To learn more about the Libraries, and to watch for your shout outs:
Follow us on Twitter
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If you have any questions or want more information, please contact Dawn Butler at ndbutler@wsu.edu or at 509-335-6205
Thank you for your support! As this project progresses, you will receive regular email updates.
You will get a shout out on our facebook and twitter page. Make sure to follow us so you don't miss your moment of fame.
You will be added as a Friend of the Libraries. You'll receive our quarterly newsletter and other Library related updates throughout the year.
You've just helped us purchase one of the Standard Agisoft Software packages we need in order to turn this dream into a reality. In addition to all the previous Perks, you'll also receive a Library bookmark signed by our amazing Library Staff!
You have just helped us purchase one of the photography turntables we need. In return, you'll receive a personal Thank You Letter from our project owners, Dean Starratt and Alex Merrill.
Your gift has helped us continue access for one of the Adobe Master Collection Packages that are so crucial for students. You will be invited on a tour of our Libraries, including our special collections and the finished Dimension Lab itself.
You've helped us upgrade to Agisoft Pro! In addition to the Library Tour, one of our talented staff members will create your very own 3D avatar using our new photogrammetry technology and software.
Your gift has allowed us to purchase ScanStudio software. We would be honored to have you for dinner at one of the dinners being hosted by the Dean himself. We will be hosting one in Seattle and one in Pullman. We hope to see you there!
At this point, you are obviously a committed library supporter, and we want everyone to know how much we appreciate you. In addition to being an honored guest at our Dinner, we will place a plaque in your honor in the Dimensions Lab, memorializing your commitment to the WSU Libraries.
