"Openness Accelerating Learning Networks" works to establish conditions and possibilities for open technology-supported learning and participation in Finland. The special target at HAMK University of Applied Sciences has been the use of virtual and augmented reality applications in welfare studies.

1. Openness Accelerating Learning Networks:
Kinect for participation and
learning in the welfare sector
The project
"Openness Accelerating Learning Networks" works
to establish conditions and possibilities for open
technology-supported learning and participation
in Finland.
The special target at HAMK University of Applied
Sciences has been the use of virtual and
augmented reality applications in welfare studies.
The pilots
The pilots were implemented in an authentic
learning environment, Virvelinranta Development
and Resource Centre for the Disabled People,
Hämeenlinna, Finland.
Crafts and recreation students of HAMK were
directing the Virvelinranta clients to use Kinect.
On first pilots the usability of commercial Kinect
games was tested.
Next were tested the applications more oriented
to the particular needs of the special customer
group, developed by IT students at HAMK.

2. The technology
• Kinect has helped to actualize the project's
goals through experimential 3D environments for
learning and participation.
• The user interface adjusts for various user groups
who may not be able to use technically challeng-
ing interfaces due to disabilities.
• All interaction at the user interface takes place
in ways natural to human beings: gestures and
speech
• The approachable technology facilitates the
welfare sector students', mostly new to Kinect,
orientation.
Contact us:
www.hamk.fi/avo2
merja.salminen@hamk.fi
leena.koskimaki@hamk.fi
The outcomes:
• The students, teachers and other key groups
such as service providers and their customers
have been able to familiarize themselves with
new technologies
• Learning environments have become more
versatile and teaching is now enriched with
more concrete, illustrative solutions.
• The project has made information available
about new possibilities of learning and
participation