Nuclear and Climate Education Through Web-Based 3D Environments

Abstract

Education and outreach are critical to expanding the nuclear industry. Recent developments in web rendering technology has opened new avenues for education, especially in developing economies. This paper will explore how a combination of 3D models, web rendering, and web design can create user-interactive educational 3D spaces to overcome critical challenges in creating low cost, global outreach. Furthermore, we explore the unique user interactive features contained in these environments enabling students to take charge of their own learning, at their own pace, potentially sparking a lifelong interest in nuclear science. These 3D web-based simulations have the ability to transform the way people learn about nuclear science and technology. This will be of particular interest with teaching the next generation of nuclear workers on next-generation and small modular reactors.