From July 21st to 25th, 2025, the SIMPLE team gathered in Bangkok, Thailand, for an intensive coding camp. The event brought together technical experts from IRD, CTU, and NSTDA, along with pedagogical specialists, to advance the development of the project.

Upcoming Virtual Universes (VUs)

The five-day coding camp featured a series of intensive activities and dynamic discussions, combining both technical and pedagogical perspectives. One of the key milestones was the advancement of the second Virtual Universe (VU) for Thailand and Vietnam. The team from NSTDA led the design and testing of Thailand’s second VU, while Can Tho University (CTU) initiated the coding phase for Vietnam’s version.

Building upon the existing BiodiVRestorer (focused on biodiversity in Thai forests) and AquaDefender (focused on salt intrusion in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta), these new VUs reflect our continued commitment to providing students in both countries with a coherent, immersive, and interconnected learning experience.

Low-tech Extension

In parallel with the technical development, various in-depth discussions took place with close consultation from both technical and pedagogical experts. Drawing from feedback gathered during previous implementations with teachers and practitioners, the SIMPLE team explored the possibility of a “low-tech extension” – a simplified version of the platform designed to ease implementation in diverse classroom environments. 

Looking ahead, the team is also working to finalize the agenda for the future implementations in both Vietnam and Thailand.