Abstract
We face a technology growth period that promotes STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) as basic set of competences in diversified professional backgrounds. However, the process of teaching this areas is complex and abstract. We propose using game-based learning (GBL) for increased engagement and efficacy. More specifically, we use pervasive games as the drive of the learning process, promoting challenges in the context of the learner. To develop pervasive games, we require mobile devices (for location-based games) and a set of functionalities regarding location, time, and context of the user. In this article, we present the design of a mobile app to implement pervasive games. The perks of the mobile devices will be used to get unique and engaging challenges, to stimulate learning. Therefore, the learning process will become more enjoyable, and it will accomplish the goal of learning "anytime anywhere". This work sets upon previous work developed in the H2020 BEACONING project and the mobile app presented will allow other developers to create pervasive games for distinct areas of learning in a more engaging and effective way.

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The use of virtual reality technologies for data visualization and analysis has been an emerging topic of research in the past years. However, one type of data has been left neglected, the point cloud. While some strides have been made in the visualization and analysis of point clouds in immersive environments, these have yet to be used for direct manipulation interactions. It is hypothesized that as with other types of data, bringing direct interactions and 3D visualization to point clouds may increase the ease of performing basic handling tasks. An immersive application for virtual reality HMDs was developed in Unity to help research this hypothesis. It is capable of parsing classified point cloud files with extracted objects and representing them in a virtual environment. Several editing tools were also developed, designed with the HMD controllers in mind. The end result allows the user to perform basic transformative tasks to the point cloud with an ease of use and intuitive feeling unmatched by the traditional desktop-based tools. © 2021 Owner/Author.

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