Research Blogs

Letting Go of the Script: What Operation Nexus+ taught us about simulation facilitation, authenticity and learning

With AI changing the landscape of higher education, the need for authentic learning experiences has never been greater. Simulation pedagogy is emerging as a powerful way to bridge the gap…

7 September 2026

Case Study Report: Exploring the Use of AI Avatars at the University of Northampton

7 September 2026

Fast answers, slower judgement: Using Copilot to find evidence in university reports

Nicola Denning writes about how she used Microsoft Copilot to identify useful patterns across a large collection of reports and to suggest where to look next.

4 September 2026

Learning through uncertainty: What a live VR project taught us about student agency

In this blog, Kardi Somerfield write about the Digital Horizons Safer Streets project and explores how unfamiliar technology can create rich learning when it is connected to a meaningful purpose.

4 September 2026

Raising the floor without lowering the ceiling

In this blog, Marketing academics Kardi Somerfield and Billy Little investigate what happens when rather than being warned away from it, students are expected to use generative AI as part…

3 September 2026

When cardboard comes to life

What happens when a cardboard exhibition meets augmented reality? In Warren Fearn’s research, the answer is an engaging science experience that has helped primary pupils explore climate change while giving their teachers a…

3 September 2026

Digital confidence starts with relevance

This blog demonstrates how Valentina supports students at Northampton College to develop the  digital confidence they need for college and employment - by helping them understand why a digital skill…

3 September 2026

A talking hammer: Exploring Copilot for research support

Szymon Drobiazgiewicz writes about how he used Microsoft Copilot to create a chatbot, offering a practical example of how AI can support university work without attempting to replace the knowledge…

3 September 2026

When the pressure feels real: Digital technology at the heart of Operation Nexus+

In this blogpost, Claire Drakeley writes about the Operation Nexus+ project, which brings together students from different courses together at Silverstone Circuit for a large-scale simulation of a major event. 

3 September 2026

Opening up Northampton’s green spaces with 360° Street View mapping

In this blog, Declan Ryan shares how virtual reality technology can be used to improve accessibility to local outdoor spaces.

28 August 2026

Using VR to Reduce Anxiety Around Unfamiliar Places

In this blog, Sarah Wills, a SEN teacher, discusses how virtual reality has been used to expand participation on field trips for neurodivergent students.

28 August 2026

Student Reflections on Virtual Reality and Assessment: Safer Streets Initiative

This blog highlights student Beth's reflections on the use of virtual reality in assessment and the Safer Streets Virtual Reality project, an innovative collaboration between the University of Northampton and…

27 August 2026