My research explores 3D modelling and virtual environments in research visualisation. I have developed a range of interdisciplinary collaborations, primarily in archaeology & history, with the Visualising Angkor Project, but also in Indigenous Studies with the Monash Country Lines Archive, in zoology, with colleagues at La Trobe University, and in ecology, working with CSIRO and the Australian Ecosystems Models Framework.

Working with academic partners, I have developed a suite of four interlinked, practice based units in 3D modelling, 3D animation and virtual world building in the Faculty of Information Technology. Many of my approaches to teaching are informed by my own research into evidenced based historical reconstructions; where virtual reality and 3D simulation technologies are first trialled before being introduced into the teaching curriculum. This nexus between teaching and research has brought about new opportunities in the development of immersive, interdisciplinary teaching materials for humanities undergraduates in Australia and in the United States.

_{360502 Computer gaming and animation
430204 Digital heritage
430106 Digital archaeology
430102 Archaeology of Asia, Africa and the Americas 
430306 Digital history
460708 Virtual and mixed reality
460704 Interactive narrative
460706 Serious games
460207 Modelling and simulation
460101Applications in arts and humanities}

3D Modelling and Simulation, Virtual Heritage, Digital Humanities, Virtual Reality, Archaeological and Historical Visualisation, 3D Animation

Dr Tom Chandler has experience as the Chief Examiner for the following units in the Faculty of IT:

FIT1033 Foundations of 3D
FIT1046 Interactive Media Foundations
FIT3169: Immersive environments 
FIT5204: Heritage informatics (Prato)
FIT2087: 3D Character Animation