CS-VR:
Training university campus safety officers through AI and VR.
Background
DePaul’s Campus Security recognizes the need for more effective training to prepare new officers for real-world challenges. Building on prior research from projects like A Just Reality and VRSES, PUSH Studio is collaborating with Campus Safety to develop an innovative virtual reality training program. This program uses immersive scenarios to train officers in handling campus-specific incidents such as theft, battery, and intoxication. By providing a controlled and interactive environment, this initiative aims to standardize onboarding procedures and improve officer readiness while reducing reliance on real-world training resources.
Challenge
New campus safety officers often enter their roles with limited practical experience, leading to inconsistent performance and preparedness. Current onboarding relies heavily on sergeants across shifts, resulting in variations in training quality and delivery. Additionally, scheduling comprehensive in-person sessions for new officers is challenging due to the need for 24/7 campus coverage. This lack of consistency in training poses potential risks to campus safety and hinders officers’ ability to respond confidently to incidents. The challenge lies in creating a standardized and effective training solution that addresses these gaps while remaining flexible to operational demands.
Approach
PUSH Studio combines expertise in emerging technology with insights from DePaul’s Campus Safety to design a VR training program that mirrors real-world challenges officers face on campus. The approach integrates storytelling, interactive learning, and measurable outcomes to create a training experience that feels authentic and impactful. By focusing on immersive, scenario-driven learning, the program emphasizes empathy, critical thinking, and decision-making under pressure, aligning with DePaul’s goal of preparing officers for diverse and dynamic situations.
Solution
PUSH Studio combines expertise in emerging technology with insights from DePaul’s Campus Safety to design a VR training program that mirrors real-world challenges officers face on campus. The approach integrates storytelling, interactive learning, and measurable outcomes to create a training experience that feels authentic and impactful. By focusing on immersive, scenario-driven learning, the program emphasizes empathy, critical thinking, and decision-making under pressure, aligning with DePaul’s goal of preparing officers for diverse and dynamic situations.