Builder Spotlight: University of Central Missouri
Professor Adam Runyan is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at the University of Central Missouri. Over the past two years, Dr. Runyan has partnered with Curio to build multiple 3D learning experiences that bring course content to life in virtual reality. Most recently, he used internal departmental funding to commission the Neuron Exploration, a cutting-edge feature focused on the nervous system.
Neuron Exploration Overview
Dr. Adam Runyan’s introduction video explaining how students can use this experience
Dr. Adam Runyan
The Neuron Exploration is an immersive module within the anatomy section of Curio. Students can virtually step inside a neuron to explore its components—from the cell body and dendrites to the axon, myelin sheath, and more. Designed to deepen understanding of how neurons transmit signals and how disorders affect different parts of the nervous system, it’s a powerful addition for courses in psychology, biology, and anatomy. Dr. Runyan even narrates parts of the experience, explaining how different parts of the neuron are affected by external factors.
Bryan Tebbenkamp’s Leads XR Initiative
The relationship between Curio and UCM began with Bryan Tebbenkamp, the university’s Extended Reality Manager. Bryan plays a key role in identifying XR tools for UCM’s faculty and has been a strong advocate for integrating VR into instruction.
“We’ve been using Curio for over two years now, and it’s been one of the best tools for our faculty. One of the things I really love is the hand tracking—faculty don’t have to learn how to use controllers. I’m proud that UCM helped fund the creation of the Neuron Exploration, and I’m excited for what’s next in our partnership with Curio.”
