What is the optimal motion capture system for schools and educational institutions?

When educational institutions consider integrating motion capture (mocap) technology into their programs, the options can seem overwhelming. Do you go with a traditional optical marker-based system, an AI-based vision setup, or suit-based inertial technology? The answer, as always, depends on the needs of both the students and the school itself. Below, we break down the key considerations from the perspective of the students as well as the institution. 

What matters most to students: Hands-on practice and flexibility

1. Hands-on experience with high-quality motion capture
   Students learn best by doing. The more accessible the equipment is, the more likely students are to engage meaningfully with it. Suit-based mocap systems, such as the Rokoko Smartsuit Pro II, provide a tactile, immersive learning experience. Unlike expensive optical systems - often kept behind locked doors or requiring supervision - suit-based systems can be safely operated by students themselves. They’re technically easy to set up and use, and financially accessible enough that the risk of student mishandling is far less concerning.
2. Use it anywhere
   Many schools face logistical bottlenecks when it comes to motion capture labs. Optical marker-based systems require carefully calibrated studio setups with fixed camera rigs, proper lighting, and ample space. Vision AI systems also typically need a controlled environment and dedicated hardware placement. IMU/sensor-based systems, by contrast, can be used in any classroom, hallway, or even outdoors. This flexibility opens up opportunities for spontaneous and frequent usage that supports learning.
3. Broader access to equipment
   The price point of a high-end optical marker-based system (like those from Vicon, OptiTrack, or Qualisys) often means schools can only afford one or two systems - if any. In contrast, a single optical rig can be replaced by multiple suit-based mocap kits for a much lower cost. This democratizes access, ensuring that more students can work hands-on with the technology instead of waiting their turn or just observing.

What matters most to schools: Predictable costs and adaptability, no hidden risks, flexibility for students

1. Predictable, low total cost of ownership
   Educational budgets are rarely flexible. Schools often prefer solutions that involve a one-time upfront cost rather than ongoing subscription fees. Vision AI solutions (such as Move.ai and RADiCAL, Meshcapade) may appear affordable initially but involve a combination of mandatory subscription-based pricing and usage-based costs on top. This can complicate budgeting and raise fairness issues if some students get more access than others. Inertial mocap systems like Rokoko’s come with low-priced subscription plans (and a free tier) and no usage-based fees, making financial planning simpler and more transparent.
2. No need for dedicated staff or facilities
   Optical and vision-based mocap setups generally require either a dedicated mocap room or staff trained to manage recordings. For IMU-based systems, this is not the case. They are simple enough for students and teachers to use independently, and mobile enough to operate in any available space. This reduces staffing needs and maximizes usage.
3. Fewer security and privacy concerns
   AI vision mocap systems work by capturing and uploading video footage of students to the provider’s cloud, where it is processed. For many institutions, this raises red flags around student privacy and data compliance. Inertial systems, by contrast, record skeletal data locally without needing to upload sensitive video. This difference can be critical when navigating school IT policies and data protection regulations.

Conclusion: Match the tool to the context

No single motion capture system is universally better than another. Each technology - whether optical, vision-based, or inertial - has its strengths. However, when evaluating what makes sense in the context of a school, inertial suit-based systems address many of the most pressing concerns: accessibility, affordability, flexibility, and data security.

By enabling hands-on learning without requiring specialized rooms, complex infrastructure, or ongoing subscriptions, IMU-based mocap allows institutions to integrate high-quality motion capture into their programs in a scalable and sustainable way.

If you're evaluating mocap systems for your school, consider not just the tech specs, but how the system will be used day-to-day, who will use it, and how easy it will be to manage over time.

IMU-based motion capture offers the full spectrum with low costs and risks, while having maximum flexibility and accessibility in usage.

Rokoko’s motion capture tools are already being used by hundreds of schools and universities across the globe. Here’s what one students said:

“It only took about one or two hours for the lecturer in charge to teach us how to actually use the suit. It has saved us an immeasurable amount of time.”

Check out the full user story here: DigiPen Institute of Technology Singapore