In collaboration with Kent State University’s iLIVE group, RCET is leading the pilot of a virtual environment to support the Abundant Life framework for whole person wellness. Abundant Life is a health care model that offers education, support, and evaluation in practical methods that emphasize whole person care.
RCET was contracted by the Catholic Community Connection (Cleveland) to develop a virtual environment to provide an additional support venue for Abundant Life participants who cannot attend face-to-face support sessions regularly or who would like to practice Abundant Life exercises using technology with other participants from long distance locations. RCET convened a trans-disciplinary team of faculty from KSU’s iLIVE group to work with members of the Catholic Community Connection on the conceptual design and development of the virtual environment. Using the Second Life platform, KSU faculty member Dr. Steve Zapytowski, Professor of Design and Technology in the School of Theater and Dance, built two environments conducive to relaxation in-world, resembling a park grove setting. RCET recruited Kent State University students to participate in a pilot test of the virtual environment across summer 2010. The outcomes from the pilot investigation document the potential of a virtual environment for supporting the Abundant Life mission and providing individuals with continued access and support that would not be possible otherwise.
The Phase 1 Pilot Report can be downloaded here.
Follow Us!