HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY

Welcome to the Ronnie Charney Core Skills Lab! We are glad you are interested in visiting. Our goal is to assist you with the development of your professional skills to the best of our ability.

The Core Skills Lab leverages Virtual Reality (VR) technology to help you practice presenting and interacting in professional scenarios through immersive environments.

To prepare for your appointment, please view the information on this site to obtain a basic understanding of the lab's usage and purpose. This site contains an extensive, growing library of video resources and documentation to give you the full perspective.

Want to prepare for an interview? Want to practice giving a presentation? Booking and visiting the lab becomes streamlined when you have an idea of what you'd like to accomplish beforehand.

Visiting as a Course Requirement?

The Core Skills Lab collaborates with several courses at the business school, including Introduction to Management (MGT 101) and Introduction to Marketing (MKT 101). In these courses, students are required to visit the lab and complete assignments using our software to practice public speaking skills.

These courses are typically required to use the Ovation software to deliver a presentation and receive feedback. The lab will collaborate with the professors of these courses to provide sufficient documentation and other preparation materials (including this site) on how to complete this assignment.

Making an Appointment

Appointments are booked via Calendly. When booking, you may be required to specify if your visit is for a class and what software you intend to use.

Please book with your Student Pride email address. This way, you can receive all relevant correspondence regarding your appointment.

What to Expect

When you arrive at the lab, you will be expected to fill out a Check-In form. This will be our means of validating your attendance and monitoring lab activity.

Before you begin utilizing lab equipment, it is expected of you to have viewed all relevant videos and documentation regarding the software you intend to use. Please see Prepare for your Core Skills Lab Visit for comprehensive guides to prepare.

Once you are ready to begin, one of the lab assistants will facilitate your appointment. Please feel free to notify them if you need any special accommodations, or simply if you have any questions. We are always happy to help!

Once you are finished, you will be asked to fill out a Feedback form. We would love to hear if you have any questions or suggestions regarding the software and lab software/amenities.

Prepare for your Core Skills Lab Visit

To make the most of your 45-minute session, we recommend skimming the relevant software guide beforehand and having your accounts set up. The Guides are short and highlight the key points, so you’ll be prepared to jump in and focus on exploring the software during your appointment.

Reading the guides isn’t meant to be burdensome, so take it at your own pace - however, the more prepared you are, the deeper we can dive!

FAQs

Lab Software

What software is available in the Core Skills lab?

Please visit the official Core Skills Lab Hofstra University Site for a list of software at the lab.

Do I need to install anything on my own device?

No, all required software is pre-installed on lab devices. You may have to visit specific sites through your browser to complete tasks like account activation, or document imports. However, this does not require the installation of external tools or applications.

Can I request additional software to be added?

Yes, you can submit a request through the feedback form you will access at the end of your session, or speak with the lab facilitator. All software requests will be reviewed for compatibility and licensing.

Virtual Reality (VR)

What can I do with VR in the lab?

VR allows you to simulate public speaking, interviews, team collaboration, and other professional scenarios in immersive environments.

Are there any health or safety concerns with using VR?*

Some users may experience dizziness, nausea, or eye strain. We recommend frequent breaks. Documentation on risks is available upon request.

Do I need prior experience with VR to use it?

Not at all! Lab staff will assist you with setup and walk you through how to use the equipment. You may also view the videos and documents available on this site to familiarize yourself with the hardware.

Can I bring my own VR headset?

No, for consistency and safety, we ask that you use the equipment provided in the lab.

Making an Appointment

How do I book time in the Core Skills Lab?

Appointments can be made through our online booking system, Calendly.

How long can I reserve the lab for?

Sessions are typically booked in 45-minute intervals. Though not guaranteed, extended sessions may be available upon request.

Can I drop in without an appointment?

No, due to the expected volume of lab visits during a given semester, walk-in appointments are not permitted.

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*Please note that VR experiences may cause discomfort such as dizziness, nausea, or eye strain in some users. We recommend taking regular breaks and using VR equipment in a safe, seated environment when possible. Please prepare to accept these risks upon entering the lab if you decide to use VR. Desktop options are available.

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