Dreamscape Learn Company Profile

Background

Dreamscape Learn, established in 2019 and headquartered in Culver City, California, is a pioneering educational technology company that integrates cinematic storytelling with advanced virtual reality (VR) technology to revolutionize learning experiences. Born from a collaboration between Dreamscape Immersive and Arizona State University (ASU), the company's mission is to transform education through immersive, narrative-driven VR environments that engage students in active learning.

Key Strategic Focus

Dreamscape Learn focuses on developing VR-based educational platforms that merge experiential pedagogy with cinematic storytelling. Their flagship product, "Biology in the Alien Zoo," immerses students in a virtual space-based sanctuary where they tackle life science problems, effectively replacing traditional wet labs. Additionally, the "Immersive Classroom" platform enables live, instructor-led sessions in virtual recreations of diverse environments, enhancing the learning experience across various disciplines.

Financials and Funding

In January 2023, Dreamscape Learn secured $20 million in Series A funding. The round was led by Bold Capital Partners, GSV Ventures, Verizon Ventures, and Cengage Group. Deborah Quazzo, managing partner at GSV Ventures, joined the company's board following the investment. The funds are intended to accelerate growth and expand operations.

Pipeline Development

Dreamscape Learn's primary offering, "Biology in the Alien Zoo," is currently implemented in introductory biology courses at ASU, with plans to expand into subjects like chemistry, physics, and climate science. The company is also developing a 2D cloud-streaming version of its VR experiences to reach online learners unable to access 3D haptic pods, with a broader rollout aimed for fall 2022.

Technological Platform and Innovation

The company's proprietary VR platform combines motion capture with full-body mapping, allowing users to interact as life-like avatars within computer-generated worlds. This technology, initially developed by Dreamscape Immersive for entertainment, has been adapted for educational purposes, enabling immersive storytelling and shared learning experiences. The platform's flexibility allows for the creation of diverse virtual environments tailored to various educational needs.

Leadership Team

Walter Parkes, CEO and Co-Founder: A veteran film producer and screenwriter, Parkes co-founded Dreamscape Immersive and has been instrumental in integrating cinematic storytelling into VR educational experiences.

Josh Reibel, CEO: With over 30 years in education technology, Reibel has held leadership roles at companies like Sokanu Interactive and Amplify Learning, bringing extensive experience in digital curriculum and assessment tools.

Aaron Grosky, President and COO: Grosky has guided Dreamscape Immersive's strategic direction and operational execution, leveraging his background in live event production and digital music services.

Amit Kumar, General Counsel: Kumar brings over 20 years of experience in complex commercial transactions and IP licensing, having held positions at adidas America and TaylorMade Golf Company.

Caecilia Charbonnier, Co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer: A former professional tennis player turned computer scientist, Charbonnier co-founded Artanim and has been pivotal in developing the VR technology leveraged by Dreamscape.

Chris Huff, SVP, Academic Partnerships: Huff oversees new account sales and client success activities, drawing from his experience as Chief Sales Officer at Echo360.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The immersive educational technology market is experiencing significant growth, driven by advancements in VR and augmented reality (AR) technologies. The demand for engaging, interactive learning experiences is propelling the adoption of VR-based educational platforms across various institutions.

Competitor Analysis

GigXR: Provides extended reality healthcare training solutions, focusing on medical education through immersive simulations.

Pixaera: Offers web-based and VR software solutions, emphasizing interactive training and educational experiences.

Unimersiv: Develops VR educational platforms, offering immersive learning experiences across various subjects.

VRSim: Creates VR teaching tools for sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, and public services, focusing on practical training applications.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Dreamscape Learn's collaboration with ASU has been central to its development, integrating VR technology into the university's curriculum. Additionally, the partnership with Zoe Immersive has enabled the creation of interactive 3D virtual classrooms, allowing educators and students to design and share immersive experiences without coding expertise.

Operational Insights

By combining cinematic storytelling with immersive VR technology, Dreamscape Learn differentiates itself in the educational technology market. Its focus on creating emotionally engaging, interactive learning environments positions the company as a leader in transforming traditional education methods.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Dreamscape Learn aims to expand its VR educational offerings into additional subjects and develop 2D versions of its experiences to reach a broader audience. The company is also exploring partnerships with other educational institutions to license its technology, further extending its impact on the education sector.