In the last year, VRAC continued its growth, both in the number of partnerships and research faculty. Currently, VRAC faculty members conduct research for 30 active research projects totaling $15 million in contract support. These projects support 53 faculty affiliates from four colleges, 85 graduate students, and 55 undergraduates. The research projects listed in these pages highlight the interdisciplinary teamwork and synergy of those working with virtual reality and other emerging interface technologies to improve the lives of everyday people.

In addition, our Human Computer Interaction Graduate Program continued its commitment to responding to the needs of students. This year, we implemented the HCI Certificate Program to complement the major by extending an opportunity for individuals without an advanced degree to receive training remotely. Currently, we have 29 PhD and 21 master’s students in HCI, with 2 PhD and 10 master’s graduates through spring 2006. In the next year, we look forward to furthering these programs and the opportunities they provide to students.

For more information about VRAC and its research and partnerships, visit www.vrac.iastate.edu.