VIRTUAL GORILLA PROJECT
"GORILLAS IN THE BITS"

The Virtual Gorilla Exhibit is being developed to explore techniques for using Virtual Reality to present information to users experientially. Based upon actual data from the Zoo Atlanta gorilla exhibit, we are modeling an environment where the user can explore areas that are normally off-limits to the casual visitor.

The VR gorilla environment allows us to extend the educational experiences provided in the traditional zoo environment. A primary goal of Zoo Atlanta is to increase public awareness and involvement with issues of conservation. Through this immersive technology, children can "be a gorilla" and experience, first-hand, what it is like to join a gorilla family group. They can test behaviors and elicit appropriate responses from other members of the gorilla family. This immersive environment has the potential to become a memorable experiential tool in teaching children about gorillas and their world.