Virtual Reality at BHS

Future animators, aerospace and mechanical engineers, game designers, and software moguls are honing their skills at Boone High School through their participation in the Virtual Reality program. Students use sophisticated programs like Blender and SolidWorks to create realistic 3D models and animations. When I visited the VR room, I saw students working on projects as varied as creating a 3D animated Indiana Jones character, building an animated model of a working engine, and designing a square coffee mug. The students collaborate on projects and help each other learn the ins and outs of the programs they use to bring their ideas to life. With BHS’s new MakerBot 3D printer, Boone students can even print and work with tangible renderings of their 3D designs.

Virtual Reality facilitator Peggy Watkins says that in the past VR students have worked with teachers to help design 3D models they can use to aid in their classroom instruction; one group of students designed a 3D model of a cell for their science teacher. Watkins says the students would welcome challenges from Boone teachers for other model or animation projects.

The VR program is also gaining the attention of other central Iowa schools. On Monday, September 28, the high school TAG teacher, curriculum director, and selected students from Perry High School will be visiting the BHS Virtual Reality program for the purpose of starting their own program.

Sophomore AJ Seeman, who says he wants to pursue a career in exterior automotive design, works with a 3D engine model he has created using Blender.

Freshmen Hunter Sherry, Matthew Kordick, and Jacob Sterenberg 

work with engineering software to create 3D models