PresentVR Adds PowerPoint, Transcription and Multiplayer Elements to Its Public Speaking VR Experience

by Rebecca Sagherian

The minds behind PresentVR have been hard at work, and they’ve made some impressive progress on their simulation since we last spoke with them.

In the simulation, users can face their public speaking fears by immersing themselves in a classroom setting and practicing their presentations in front of a virtual classroom filled with live, motion tracking audience members.

Since we last touched base, Hamilton Coke ’18 (Computer Engineering), Reece Jackson, ’18 (Computer Engineering), Gurneev Sareen ’18 (Computer Engineering) and Hayley Seeno ’20 (Studio Art) have developed several new features and finishing touches as they get ready to showcase their hard work at the Senior Design Conference.

Now, users can personalize their presentation simulation by uploading their own Powerpoint slides to the program. The team also has included a transcription feature where users can practice speaking with their notes or a script being projected through the headset to aid in memorization leading up to the real deal.

Multiplayer and mobile app features have also been added, so users can “sign in” to the presentation, and act as live, active audience members. The team also is planning to expand this multiplayer mode to include custom reactions based on the speaker’s activity, like long pauses, shortness of breath, and other signs of fear or discomfort.

The team is hoping to develop PresentVR even further — some ideas they have include customizable characters and new virtual worlds such as mock interview rooms and big auditoriums.

Come and check out the finished product at the Senior Design Conference on Thursday, May 10th at 2:50PM in ENGR 105, like us on Facebook and visit our website (scu.edu/imaginarium) to stay updated on all things VR!