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Ball State University’s College of Communication, Information, and Media (CCIM) has recently completed significant studio renovations, incorporating cutting-edge technology to enhance immersive learning experiences and prepare its nearly 1,600 students to thrive in ever-changing and fast-paced technology-based fields.
A centerpiece of the upgrades is a turnkey, scalable LED volume wall—part of a new XR virtual production (VP) system. This advanced setup, commonly used by professionals in the virtual production industry, synchronizes actors’ performances with real-time virtual environments displayed on LED panels.
By giving students direct access to the same tools used by top studios, the system bridges the gap between classroom and career.
“This technology isn’t just impressive—it’s practical,” said Suzy Smith, chair of the Department of Media and associate professor of media. “It gives our students real experience with tools they’ll use in the field, while also pushing their creativity in ways that traditional sets simply can’t. It’s a game-changer for how we teach—and how they learn.”
To maximize the benefits of this technology, CCIM has introduced a new academic concentration, “Visual Effects and Motion Graphics,” in collaboration with the School of Art in Ball State’s College of Fine Arts. This cross-curriculum endeavor allows students in the Department of Media and the School of Art to enhance their virtual production and animation skill sets.
Housed within the Ball Communication Building, Ball State’s LED volume wall stands out as the only installation of its kind located within an academic unit in the Midwest—setting the University apart as a regional leader in virtual production education.
“We are lucky that we’re at a University that sees value and sees the vision of what we do,” Prof. Smith said. “There was never any hesitation in supporting this idea because Ball State is dedicated to supporting and preparing our students.”
