Guest Speaker – Alan Devins
Alan returned to education in 2019 to pursue his passion for game development. He earned an MSc (Hons) in Game Art & Design from TUS in 2023, developing a strong foundation in interactive media and digital environments while specializing in XR (extended reality). He began working with the TUS Clonmel-based Digital Arts Lab, developing immersive virtual experiences.
Now focused on XR research with the Sustainable Development Research Institute (SDRI) on the Thurles campus, Alan explores how emerging technologies can be applied in industry and education, with a particular focus on practical VR solutions. His work examines how immersive technology can improve training, simulation, and learning environments, leveraging his technical expertise to develop innovative and effective applications.
Project Overview
Youth Work Virtual is an Erasmus+ funded European project developing a professionally moderated, purpose-built virtual reality platform for youth work.
The project is led by Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), which is responsible for the design and development of the platform, working in collaboration with European partners.
Unlike open social platforms, Youth Work Virtual is a structured, safeguarded digital environment designed specifically to support professional youth work practice.
The platform prioritises young people who are:
- Neurodiverse or socially anxious
- Living with physical disabilities or long-term illness
- Geographically isolated
- Digitally native
While designed with these groups in mind, it is inclusive and open to all young people and youth organisations.
Alongside the technical development, the project includes an MA in Immersive Environments in Education, with 15 youth workers currently enrolled – embedding research, professional development, and innovation directly into the process.
Running until September 2027, the project aims to transition into a funded national and European service operated by Youth Work Ireland.
Project Partners: Youth Work Ireland | Ho West University (Belgium) | City of Helsinki (Finland) | ERIYCA (Luxembourg)
Our Sponsors
