Students engage with politics in an immersive, interactive recreation of the UK’s Houses of Parliament.
Download ProfileEngaging and inspiring voters and potential politicians of the future is critical for any democracy. The UK government wanted to extend and expand its education programme to connect young people from 7–18 with the Parliamentary process. They recognised it would take an experience that's relevant and appealing to a technology-savvy generation. Working with Centre Screen Productions, Electrosonic was responsible for designing, installing and commissioning 360° projection systems for a series of experiences that recreate Parliamentary chambers in four learning spaces.
The technology aims to immerse students in a fast-paced experience that blends engaging content with spectacular visuals to provide virtual tours and recreate significant events in Parliamentary history. The ambitious project had to incorporate a variety of techniques including 2.5D archive animations, immersive motion graphics, 3D models, edge blended video, surround-sound audio and augmented reality. The aim was to create a unique learning environment that is dynamic and stimulating.
To create the immersive experience in the Discovery space, ceiling-mounted projectors create a 360° continuous video display around all four walls. Specialist edge-blended software connects the images while an immersive soundscape makes visitors feel they are standing in Parliament. Flexible control systems enable content to be adjusted for different age groups. The systems are connected to Electrosonic’s remote monitoring service to maintain continuous reliable operation.
The unique learning environment generates a sense of anticipation when groups enter the space. The education team found that students are ‘transfixed’ by the immersive experience helping to engage and inspire them to learn more about Parliamentary history and democracy. The popularity of the new Education Centre has enabled the team to increase annual visit numbers from 45,000 to 100,000 since its opening.
Students join the protesters in an immersive recreation of the struggle for votes for women.
