Biography
Jacob joined the iSpace lab in Fall 2023 as a MSc student. He holds a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Software Systems Engineering from the University of Regina. During his time at URegina, he also worked as an undergraduate researcher in the Department of Computer Science’s aRMADILo Lab; his research focus was interdisciplinary applications for immersive virtual reality experiences, specifically in the areas of spatial cognition and isolated phobia exposure therapy. He is also self-taught in Unity (since early 2019) and Unreal Engine (since early 2022), and has previously worked in the industry as an interactive digital media developer.
Projects
Pathways to flourishing
Leveraging Virtual Reality for cultivating compassion, resilience, social connectedness, and healthy habits in emerging adults facing chronic health challenges About half of youths with chronic physical conditions develop anxiety and/or depression, causing significant distress and disruption within their lives over many years. This underscores their need for well-being tools- particularly ones t...
Awedyssey: VR for promoting and enhancing well-being
We are investigating and creating a new virtual reality (VR) experience, 'Awedyssey', for the promotion and enhancement of well-being. Today, digital technology pervasively intersects with our daily lives, and VR stands out as a digital tool capable of fostering positive emotion like awe, self-transcendence, and authentic social connection. Connecting with nature is very important for our mental...