About the project
Welcome to FII;)CA, an ERASMUS+ project inspired by the cherished Swedish tradition of 'fika.'At FII;)CA, we explore the intriguing question: "How do you enjoy virtual coffee?" While you can't physically sip a virtual cup, we are here to recreate the essence of 'fika' in the virtual reality realm.Our mission is to delve into social virtual reality (SVR) platforms, uncovering their capabilities and limitations. We guide students in designing meaningful scenarios and virtual spaces for social activities in SVR, fostering a new way of connecting and interacting.Our project is a collaboration between prestigious institutions and organizations: Centria University in Finland, Antwerpen University in Belgium, Ispgaya in Portugal, University of Malaga in Spain, Asociación Building Bridges in Spain, AIDI in Spain, and GEA College in Slovenia. FII;)CA is proudly funded by a higher education (HED) grant from Erasmus+.Curious about the future of social interactions in the digital world through virtual reality? Let's explore together!Bookmark this site to stay updated on our progress. We'll soon be launching links to our events and giving everyone the opportunity to experience SVR first-hand!Join us on this exciting journey and discover the possibilities of Social Virtual Reality (SVR) with FII;)CA!
FII;)CA MANIFESTO
Embracing the Future: Beyond the Pandemic
The FII;)CA project was conceived in the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when the world was forced to rethink how we connect, learn, and socialize. As we emerge from the shadow of the pandemic and step into a new era, our mission remains more relevant than ever. The longing for the human touch of the "old normal" is palpable, yet we recognize the immense possibilities that the digital realm holds for the future of education and social interaction.
A New Generation of Virtual Natives
In this new normal, a generation of "virtual natives" has emerged, epitomized by the users of platforms like Roblox. These young individuals, aged 14-16 and even younger, are navigating virtual spaces with ease, using them as their primary venues for socialization and play. These platforms are vast, open worlds with minimal regulation, fostering creativity and exploration through micro-games and side quests.This demographic is poised to become the next wave of students entering higher education. Their familiarity and comfort with social virtual reality (SVR) environments mean that they will arrive with specific expectations shaped by their digital experiences. The FII;)CA project recognizes that while their adoption of SVR will be seamless, the challenge lies in how educational institutions can not only adapt to but also lead in this evolving landscape.
Pioneering the Future of Education
Our vision for FII;)CA extends beyond mere adaptation. We aim to position universities, vocational education and training (VET) institutes, and other educational entities at the forefront of SVR innovation. To meet the expectations of upcoming generations, these institutions must pioneer new methodologies and develop concrete use cases for SVR in education.This involves creating regulated, safe virtual environments where students can engage in learning activities that are both immersive and aligned with institutional behavioral guidelines. By doing so, we ensure that the ethos and methodologies of education are preserved and enhanced within these digital spaces.
Our Commitment
FII;)CA is committed to exploring and harnessing the full potential of social virtual reality. Our goal is to create a framework where educational institutions can seamlessly integrate SVR into their curriculums, providing students with engaging, interactive learning experiences. We believe that by embracing these technologies, we can create a richer, more dynamic educational landscape that prepares students for the future while respecting the principles of traditional education.
Join us as we chart this exciting path forward, blending the best of the old and new to redefine education for the digital age.
Project Partners
The project is a collaborative effort between partners from across Europe, with the strategic objective of empowering, developing competences and fostering the creation of safe virtual reality environments conducive to both learning and having fun!
As a University of Applied Sciences and Arts, AP is more than a higher education institution.
AP is a learning metropolis, an enricher of talent, an amplifier of commitment and an
expander of students’ world view. By way of enthusiastic teachers, progressive content,
direct honest orientation and maximum interaction with expertise, AP ensures that all
students can realise their full potential.AP is leading partner in FII;)CA. The aim is to share knowledge about Social VR with our
partners to prepare our students for the future, equip them with digital skills and increase
their awareness on soft skill which are still applicable in the virtual realm.
ISPGAYA aims to promote the full development of its students through integrated technical-scientific, sociocultural and human training. Based on human values, ISPGAYA emphasises the personal and community dimension, training its students in responsible freedom, openness to the future, flexibility in change, solidarity with the world in which it is inserted.ISPGAYA also seeks to stimulate the creation and publicising of culture and science through the CID - Research and Development Centre, namely the journal Politécnica, the journal PEC - Psicologia, Educação e Cultura and other relevant scientific publications.With experience in international projects and its focus on methodologies, ISPGAYA can contribute significantly to the FIICA project as well as having it positioned as a pilot project for future implementations of Social Virtual Reality technology and methodologies.
The University of Málaga is a public institution which produces and transfers knowledge while providing higher education services through the teaching staff and research tasks in a setting that features technological, cultural, and tourist activities. It was founded in 1972 after a sequence of initiatives put forth by a social movement that finally became an established platform: “Amigos de la Universidad de Málaga” (University of Málaga Friends). It is a dynamic and innovative University that has come to be socially recognized for its prestige and leadership; its open and participatory nature; its commitment to achieving a status of quality, excellence and to lifelong learning; its integration into the European Higher Education and Research Area; its concern for student employability and, thus, links to the business world, Andalusia's Technology Park and public sector; its outstanding competitive position at regional, national and international levels; and, its focus on a global knowledge society.Specific Contributions to the Fii;)CA project are:
Leadership in the Development of Educational Content: UMA is instrumental in the co-creation of educational content applied to the use of immersive spaces for relaxation purposes. The expertise of the team members in mental health and simulation is key in designing scenarios that promote the mental well-being of students.
Support in Research and Analysis Protocols: UMA supports the development and implementation of the project's research and analysis protocol, ensuring that the methods and results are rigorous and of high quality.
Organization and Conduct of Transnational Events: UMA plays a significant role in organizing and conducting transnational meetings and learning, training, and teaching activities, ensuring active participation and engagement from all educational partners. It is in charge of LTTA2 organization.
Use of Technology in Education: The UMA team proposal to integrate augmented reality in mental health training is an innovative component of the project, promoting digital transformation in education and enhancing the digital capacity and readiness of the involved students and teachers.
GEA College – Faculty of Entrepreneurship is a specialized private business school that provides
high-quality and practical education at a graduate and post-graduate level. Full time and part-time
study programs are conducted in Ljubljana and online. GEA is developing modern study methods and
nurtures excellence in teaching. The entire study demands collaboration with business environment as
well as use of the top-notch theoretical knowledge.Teaching and learning methods in GEA College are moving away from traditional forms, from passive
learning towards a greater focus of active learning, where students openly interact with one another
and participate in the lecture. They are often challenged to work out a problem together, to study on
real case study from one of Slovene or international enterprises or to work on task/problem from
student’s own job.
Centria University of Applied Sciences (Centria) is a multi-disciplinary educational organization located in western Finland, with campuses in Kokkola, Pietarsaari, and Ylivieska. Centria offers degree programs across a variety of fields, including business, technology, social and health care, culture, humanities, and education. With approximately 3,500 students enrolled in around 15 different programs, Centria is committed to providing diverse and comprehensive education.Centria plays a pivotal role in the FII;)CA project. As the host of the first Learning, Teaching, and Training Activity (LTTA), Centria collaborated closely with the University of Malaga (UMA) and other partners to plan the initial learning scenario theme. Alongside Asociación Building Bridges (ABB) and other partners, Centria is continually developing the project's digital ecosystem.In addition to its collaborative efforts, Centria leads several key aspects of the FII;)CA project. As the responsible partner for the Web Shop, Centria is creating a digital storefront for the immersive spaces developed by the project. This Web Shop will feature a rating system for these spaces, which will be managed in collaboration with ABB. Furthermore, Centria, in partnership with AP and coached by AIDI, is responsible for overseeing the Social Virtual Reality (SVR) component of the project.Centria's expertise in learning and education is a cornerstone of the FII;)CA project. The institution leads the planning of learning scenarios, focusing on a broad spectrum of topics such as social learning, active learning, teaching, collaboration, and co-creation. Through these efforts, Centria aims to foster innovative and engaging learning experiences for all participants
AIDI (Association for Research, Design, and Innovation) is a Spanish non-profit association dedicated to fostering social innovation at the intersection of culture, education, and technology. By working on projects with a positive social impact, AIDI aims to drive meaningful change and improvement in communities.AIDI collaborates with public institutions to actively involve local communities, fostering citizen participation, critical thinking, knowledge transfer, and collective intelligence. Currently, the association is experimenting with living labs and artistic mediation practices to enhance its innovative approach.In the FII;)CA project, AIDI plays a crucial role by providing both technical and methodological support. Their expertise in utilizing virtual environments is essential for engaging educational communities, ensuring that these digital spaces are effectively used to enhance learning and collaboration.
Building Bridges Cultural Association was founded in 2008 to promote a spirit and community integration and to foster European culture awareness among the youth. Building Bridges is presented at local level as a tool to assist and support the implementation of non formal education courses and improving knowledge of European labour system practices. They organise courses, visits and meetings, European events for public agencies on policies concerning youth , mobility, sports , local economic development , culture and cooperation with developing countries. n actors of the European future.
Events
LTTA 1: Kokkola, Finland 🇫🇮
In March the whole WICEPS team met in Madrid for the first transnational partner meeting of the project.
The meeting served not only to work on the tasks related to the project but also to get to know each other better and to start a fruitful cooperation between all of us.
The meeting helped us to define all the future results we want to achieve within this project and to share them with you. During the meeting we analysed the data we collected in January and February through a series of goolge forms. We submitted questionnaires to women working in construction to determine the needs of the target group and the challenges related to women's access to the construction workforce. The analysis of the collected data helped us to determine the depth or technical potential of the MOOC content.
Listen to Syben Lacquaye and his participation in LTTA1 - Kokkola, Fi.
Project Gallery
Welcome to our Project Gallery, a visual showcase of the outstanding results achieved through our dedicated efforts and innovative solutions. Here, you can explore a curated collection of images and multimedia that highlight the impact and success of our projects. Each entry in this gallery tells a unique story of creativity, collaboration, and transformation. Dive in and discover the remarkable work that defines our commitment to excellence and progress.
Relaxation
Spirit
Kissing Reindeer
Sisu
Cats and Dogs
Divergents
Wanderers
Cultural Explorers
4 D People
TEAM: Spirit
ROOM NAME: Yoga With Pets
Room Description
Welcome to Yoga with Pets!As members of Team Spirit, we invite you to immerse yourself in a serene space that beautifully blends the themes of yoga and pets.Inside the Building
Upon entering, you'll find information on the walls and cozy couches where you can sit. To take a seat, look at the couches, press the spacebar, and click on one of the floating icons.Garden Area
Step outside where the birds sing, and you'll notice one side of the building opens up to a tranquil garden. On the left side of the garden, you'll find three short video clips with simple yoga exercises.Additional Building
On the right, you'll see another building. To enter, click on the link next to the front door. Inside, under the soft tones of a piano performance by the team, you can view images of the team's pets. Feel free to sit at the table, and you can adjust the volume of the music or stop it if you prefer. To exit, find the link in front of one of the doors.Yoga with Pets
Practicing yoga with pets adds an extra dimension to your experience. The presence of your furry friends can enhance your practice by promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and deepening the bond between you and your pet. Whether your pet is actively participating or simply relaxing nearby, their presence brings a unique sense of joy and tranquility to your yoga session.Come on in, relax, and let the peaceful ambiance of Yoga with Pets rejuvenate your mind and spirit.Namaste,— Team Spirit
TEAM: Kissing Reindeer
ROOM NAME: Temple
Room Description
Welcome to the Temple!As members of Team Kissing Reindeer, we invite you to embark on a serene journey through our temple, designed to bring peace and focus to your mind.Temple Visit
Upon entering, you'll be greeted by an audio guide with instructions. The temple is divided into several areas, each offering a unique experience:First Part of the Temple
Here, you are invited to perform a small ritual with your avatar. This ritual involves walking around the temple twice—once to familiarize yourself with the space and a second time to fully engage in the experience. Rituals like this are meant to induce focus and help you get into the right mindset, much like traditional practices that prepare the mind for meditation and reflection.Second Part of the Temple
An audio guide will coach you through a soothing meditation exercise, helping you to relax and center your thoughts.Reflection Area
Behind the temple, you'll find a small, tranquil space perfect for reflection and contemplation.Explore
Feel free to wander and explore this ancient temple at your own pace, soaking in the serene atmosphere.Come on in, let the temple's tranquility envelop you, and find your inner peace.With Tranquil Blessings,— The Kissing Reindeer Team
TEAM: Sisu
ROOM NAME: Sisu City
Room description
Welcome to Sisu City!As members of Team Sisu, we invite you to explore our vibrant and dynamic space. Inspired by the Finnish concept of sisu—a unique blend of stoic determination, tenacity, and resilience—our city is designed to invigorate your spirit and foster a sense of community.Getting Started
Upon entering Sisu City, you'll be greeted by an audio guide and posters with instructions and a floor plan of the different areas.The Bar
Sit and chat in our cozy bar area. Simply look at the chairs, press the spacebar, and select a floating icon to take a seat.Yoga Room
Relax and rejuvenate with a session of chair yoga, guided by an instructional video.Music Room
Further down the hallway, you'll find the music room. Sit at any table (look at the seats, press the spacebar, and select a floating icon to sit) and enjoy different music playing at each table.Nature Room
Immerse yourself in various nature environments by stepping inside one of the 360° images.What is Sisu? Sisu is a Finnish word that embodies extraordinary determination, grit, and courage in the face of adversity. It's about taking action against the odds and persevering with unwavering resolve.Come on in, make yourself comfortable, and let Sisu City inspire your inner strength and creativity.With Unyielding Spirit,— The Sisu Team
TEAM: Cats And Dogs
ROOM NAME: ASMR Cafe
Room Description
Welcome to the ASMR Café!Under a dark, cold, and rainy cloud, Gary the German Shepherd invites you into the warm and cozy ASMR Café.What is ASMR?
ASMR stands for "Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response." It refers to the delightful "tingly feeling" that travels from the head down the spine, experienced by some in response to certain sounds, sensations, or descriptions. These can include soft whispering, crinkling paper, or a gentle touch12.Explore the Café
By the Fireplace
To the left of the fireplace, you'll find an area where you can listen to a cat purring. This soothing sound is known to have a calming and relaxing effect.Health Benefits of Pets
Further into the room, discover information on how pets can benefit your health.Pet Gallery
There's plenty of wall space for you to pin a picture of your pet. Simply click "Place" in the bottom toolbar and select "Upload." Once the image appears as an object in the room, grab it by pointing at the object and holding the left mouse key. Position the image and pin it by pointing at the object, pressing the spacebar, and choosing "Pin."Come on in, relax, and let the ASMR Café envelop you in tranquility and warmth.Purrs and Wags,— The Cats and Dogs Team
TEAM: Divergents
ROOM NAME: Gameverse
Room Description
Welcome to the Gameverse!As members of the Divergents team, we invite you to step into our grand hall, where a variety of exciting games await. This is not just any room—it's a challenge designed for groups, so we hope you brought your friends along!Getting Started:Read the Manual
Upon entering, you'll find a manual in front of you. Make sure to read it carefully.Activate the Wheel
A volunteer needs to scan the QR code with a smartphone to activate the wheel that will choose the game master.Share Your Screen
To share a screen, click "Share" in the bottom toolbar and select "Screen."Game Master Instructions
Once chosen, the game master will enter the designated game master room. The game master must be able to scan QR codes with a smartphone to activate the different games.
The rest of the group should follow the green arrows and the lead of the game master.
Good luck, and may the best team win!Happy Gaming!— The Divergents Team
TEAM: Wanderers
ROOM NAME: Cultural Cafe
Room Description
Welcome to the Library!Inspired by the magnificent Oodi Helsinki Central Library, our room offers a serene and inviting space for all. Step inside and discover:Ground Floor
Cozy couches await you for a relaxed chat. Simply look at the couches, press the space bar, and click on the floating icon above your chosen seat to settle in.Upstairs
Explore the upper level, where some books come with an audio reader, adding an immersive touch to your literary journey.Come on in, make yourself comfortable, and let the library inspire your wanderlust!Happy exploring— The Wanderers Team
TEAM: Cultural Explorers
ROOM NAME: Cultural Cafe
Room Description
Welcome to the Cultural Café!As “Cultural Explorers”, we invite you to step into our cozy Cultural Café. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by a recorded presentation of the room, with smooth jazz playing softly in the background. As you explore, you'll find a series of inviting spaces arranged clockwise: tables, a bar, a cork wall, a jukebox, bookshelves, and a white frame to your right.How to Navigate:Tables
Look at the tables and press the spacebar. You'll notice floating icons. Select one with a left mouse click, and you'll find yourself seated at the table.Interactive Items
Each item in the room is accompanied by an audio guide, encouraging you to engage in conversations about various topics, from books to casual small talk.Feel free to explore, relax, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural atmosphere we've created just for you!Enjoy your stay— The Cultural Explorers Team
TEAM: 4 D People
ROOM NAME: Relax Fun social
Room Description
Welcome to the Relax Fun Social Room!Our team “4 D people” has created a magical space set in a lush forest, designed around five engaging activities:Imagination
Immerse yourself in an underwater world filled with vibrant fish and enjoy a short, mindful visualization to relax and inspire your mind.Animal Memes
Explore our gallery of hilarious animal memes and share your own pet images or memes. To share an image, click "Place" in the bottom toolbar and select "Upload."Drawing
Five walls, each featuring an inspiring image, invite you to unleash your creativity with the pen. To start drawing, click "Place" in the bottom toolbar and select "Pen." Change colors by holding the pen and pressing Shift+E.Games
In a cozy room adorned with books, four tables await you to play games like Tic-Tac-Toe, Connect Four, or a word guessing game.Creative Expression
Next to the stage, express yourself by drawing something fun onto one of the five templates provided. Let your creativity shine!Enjoy your time— The 4 D People Team
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News & Project Resources
The FII;)CA project looks to bridge virtual reality technology and learning. For these purposes we have outlined the open-sourced resources on which the project is built, for all users.
Create your own Social Virtual Reality
Learn about Scenario Building
News
Contact Us
Got a comment or a more general question? Let us know.
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