IMMERSION in projects involving interactive digital media (IDM) technologies - that is what students in five selected schools are getting.

The initiative is part of plans by the Media Development Authority (MDA) to boost the local interactive media industry.

The Ministry of Education (MOE), for instance, is exploring a range of new teaching methods using IDM technologies, such as interactive art, digital textbooks and even the online virtual game Second Life.

Educational computer games will sharpen students' creativity and problem-solving skills as well as make learning more engaging.

The five schools in the MOE programme, which started in May, are Hwa Chong Institution, Jurong Secondary School, Crescent Girls School, Canberra Primary School and Beacon Primary School.

Another 15 schools may be on board by 2015.

Opportunities for participating students include working on IDM projects with visiting students from world-class universities like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Projects may include website, podcast and computer game designs.

MDA deputy CEO Michael Yap said: 'We want to start with a few schools and let the knowledge gained cascade to other schools.'

He was speaking at the recent X,Media,Lab conference, hosted by Stomp, The Straits Times' interactive portal. X,Media,Lab is an internationally acclaimed think-tank for IDM professionals.

Apart from the push in schools, Mr Yap also outlined several new initiatives to encourage the growth of the IDM sector.

One is to attract overseas companies to set up IDM research and development (R&D) labs here. California-based Eon Reality is among several firms that will be setting up here.

'It would be great if students can work with these companies, as this will help them to receive world-class training and experience,' said Mr Yap.

Overseas participants at the conference gave the plans the thumbs-up.

Mr David Vronay, creative director of Microsoft Advanced Technology Centre, felt that R&D can help to boost employee satisfaction.

'The desire to innovate creative products is beyond financial gain. Having the chance to innovate is the reason why many come to work,' he said.

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