Learning in 3-D

Students from Walls & Longcoy recently had the opportunity in the AT&T Classroom to experience learning using a 3-D stereoscopic image projection system. Building from their discussion on animal adaptations, students explored how we as humans have adaptations that help us to survive in our environment. Wearing specialized glasses, students viewed 3-D images of various anatomical structures and discussed the function of each structure as an adaptation. For example, students were able to view and rotate images of the brain and skull and discussed how the skull provides protection for the brain. They were able to see that the skull has many connected bones that grow together to form a protective case, an example of an adaptation that allows humans to have a large brain capable of thinking and problem solving. Similarly, the students also rotated 3-D images of the skeleton and were able to see how our skeletal system provides protection and support to various organs. Viewing 3-D images of the pelvis, spine, and legs allowed students to see how these structures allow us to walk upright, leading to a discussion of how walking upright is an adaptation that allows humans to move from place to place and leaves our hands free for obtaining food (hunting/gathering).