Volume AI: augmenting the reality of learning

Volume is a leader in AI-powered chatbots, immersive experiences and learning, and humanoid robots. Recognised as ‘The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For’ and one of the best companies to work with, Volume steers their clients through transformative times.

In recent years smartphones have appeared a hinderance to education institutions, such as universities and colleges, drawing student’s attention away from learning; endless scrolling of social media pages and camera filters muting the voice of the lecturer at the front of the room. However, technology companies, such as Volume, are creating innovative means to develop the use of a smartphone to more than just a distraction in the classroom.

In fact, former University of Plymouth student and current Head of Immersive Experiences at Volume Seth White alongside his colleague Dale Critchlow (a University of Plymouth alumnus), one of Volume’s XR Developers have developed a smartphone application which has the potential to create interactive, educational experiences within the classroom. This is an incredibly exciting project which has been made possible by the funding of the South West Creative Technology Network’s Immersion Development Grant, facilitated by The Bridge at The University of Plymouth.

The benefits of the SWCTN development grant

The funding Volume have received through the grant has enabled the company to refine their skills, develop in-house talent and explore a new avenue of technology. Furthermore, through working with the University of Plymouth, the development grant has given Volume the opportunity to strengthen bonds with the University. Through this bond, Volume are able to grow awareness of their company as a local employer for graduates interested in working with immersive and innovative technology.

“We hope this project will enable more opportunities for us to push our technology boundaries and work even closer with the University of Plymouth moving forward.” – Seth White, Head of Immersive Experiences, Volume

Working with the University of Plymouth

Volume have a strong belief in the talent and capabilities of graduates from The University of Plymouth.

“The quality of the students coming out of the University of Plymouth is one of the biggest benefits of having a tech company based in Plymouth.” – Seth White, Head of Immersive Experiences, Volume.

Volume actively targets students who come from the University when looking for staff as they know the students have a strong understanding of what the company needs and are aware that the University creates a high standard of graduates. Incorporated in their support of local students, Volume offers a work placement initiative, the Volume Academy.

The placements range from one week to a full year and offers students the opportunity to gain experience of what it’s like working in a company such as Volume. This work placement opportunity also helps Volume spot local talent.

“If a student comes to work with us for a placement and they get on well with the team and we like their work, we keep in touch with them so that when they graduate there is potential for new employment there.” – Seth White, Head of Immersive Experiences, Volume.

Through the support of The Bridge at The University of Plymouth and the South West Creative Technology Network’s Immersion Grant, Volume have been able to develop an application which broadens the horizon for immersive, interactive learning and opens future potential for multi-user, augmented reality applications.