VIRTUAL
REALITY
Virtual Reality
Virtual Reality (VR) is the use of computer technology to create a simulated environment. Unlike traditional user interfaces, VR places the user inside an experience. Instead of viewing a screen in front of them, users are immersed and able to interact with 3D worlds. By simulating as many senses as possible, such as vision, hearing, touch, even smell, the computer is transformed into a gatekeeper to this artificial world. The only limits to near-real VR experiences are the availability of content and cheap computing power.
Virtual Reality for School Students
School isn’t what it used to be. Chalkboards have been replaced with SMART boards. Pencil and paper have become Chromebooks and tablets. It’s only a matter of time before virtual reality education can be found in every classroom across the country. The benefits to this educational approach are endless. Virtual reality brings students to another world, another level of understanding, right inside the classroom. All students learn at a different pace and in different ways. Some are visual learners, others work best with hands on stimulation or verbal commands. Virtual reality education will help bridge the gap between these students.
Key Benefits
Here are 5 reasons why schools need to consider and implement this revolutionary form of teaching:
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Make learning fun again by engaging students through interactive games and projects, group work, public speaking and a multitude of other avenues.
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Memorable Experiences: Imagine transporting a student to the ancient ruins of Pompeii, the sunken wreck of the Titanic or the Great Wall of China? No school budget could sustain these adventures, but virtual reality education can make it happen! Students would have the opportunity to have once in a lifetime experiences.
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Virtual reality can also help prepare students for the future workforce by teaching real-life skills. A scenario designed around a current lesson on topics such as specialized training, vocational jobs or nursing can be “practiced” and experienced using this technique.​
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Virtual Reality Education bridges the gap of learners because most students can easily navigate virtual reality and they can feel accomplished. It’s a rewarding experience, which means a positive one. If students feel confident in their ability to learn, they will continue to seek out further enriching experiences.
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Promotes Creativity and Curiosity by putting the power in the hands of the learner. They are allowed to make decisions and adjustments in the alternate “universe”. Students experiment with their creativity, prompted by their curiosity of how things work.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
DEMONSTRATE
Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental techniques, processes, technologies and equipment used in immersive virtual reality.
EXPLORE
Begin to explore materials and processes used in immersive virtual reality.
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BASIC AWARENESS
Show a basic awareness and understanding of historical and theoretical contexts relevant to immersive virtual reality.
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