How Virtual and Augmented Reality Is Changing the Way We Teach and Learn
Have you ever wondered how we could bring textbooks to life?
Make historical events unfold before our eyes?
Transform abstract concepts into tangible experiences?
Welcome to the immersive classroom, where education is evolving with the inspiring power of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). These immersive technologies are opening up new possibilities for educators, making the learning experience more engaging, interactive, and personalized.
What is VR and AR?
Although very similar, there is a slight difference between VR and AR.
VR is a computer-generated environment that simulates a real or imaginary world. Since it is completely immersive, you could physically be in the classroom while your mind is exploring Machu Picchu in Peru on a virtual field trip. VR requires each user to wear a headset.
AR is a computer-generated environment based on a user’s view of the real world, creating a partially immersive experience. AR can help educators teach complex concepts with visual elements–such as seeing a 3D model or a historical artifact on top of your desk. AR can be used with headsets, but it can also be used on devices like smartphones without headsets.
What are the benefits of teachers using VR and AR as part of classroom instruction?
There are many benefits of teachers using this technology as part of instruction:
- It can create immersive and interactive learning experiences that help students stay engaged and motivated throughout the lesson. As a visualization tool, it can help students grasp difficult ideas more easily. This is especially important for students who are easily bored or who have difficulty learning in traditional ways.
- It can be used to create personalized learning experiences tailored to the individual needs of each student by offering different levels of challenge and support, as well as accommodating various learning styles and paces.
- Interactive VR and AR activities often provide instant feedback, allowing students to correct mistakes and reinforce learning in real time.
By integrating these technologies into the classroom, educators are preparing students for the ever-evolving digital world and equipping them with skills relevant to what the future will look like.
What are the benefits of students using VR and AR during learning?
Several studies have shown that VR and AR can help students learn faster, retain information better, and be more engaged in their learning by captivating their attention through these experiences.
- It allows students to work together in a shared virtual environment which promotes teamwork even if students are physically apart.
- Students are more motivated to become active participants rather than passive observers, since they can manipulate objects and conduct experiments.
- Because there are none of the hazards that may be present in a setting’s real-world counterpart, it gives students a safe experimental environment.
- Students are likely to have a more positive attitude and excitement towards learning given that VR and AR fosters their curiosity.
What are the benefits of students with disabilities using VR and AR during learning?
VR and AR promote inclusivity by tailoring experiences to diverse needs. It can accommodate a wide variety of students’ disabilities and and other challenges, making the learning experience more accessible.
- By creating safe and controlled environments for students, VR and AR can be helpful for students with anxiety or stress disorders.
- VR and AR can be used to create social experiences for students with social difficulties by allowing them to interact with others in a supportive environment.
- VR and AR can engage multiple senses, which can be especially beneficial for students with sensory processing disorders.
- For students who need visual and auditory support, it can provide auditory cues and descriptions.
- Students with physical disabilities can engage in activities and experiences that might be challenging in the real world by eliminating physical barriers, empowering them to explore and learn.
By creating shared experiences where students with diverse needs collaborate and learn together, schools are fostering a sense of belonging and community.
How do school districts benefit from VR and AR?
VR and AR can be a more cost-effective way to provide students with hands-on learning experiences.
- As it is used to simulate real-world experiences, there is no need to travel or purchase expensive equipment.
- Districts can use it to provide teachers with professional development by attending virtual workshops, collaborating with peers globally, and experiencing innovative teaching methods firsthand.
- It is a great way for districts to gather data. VR and AR platforms often gather analytics on student interactions, providing valuable insights for educators to analyze and adapt their instruction and curriculum.
Are there any downsides to using VR and AR?
While this all sounds great, it is crucial we mention the challenges and concerns associated with implementing VR and AR as part of instruction.
- The headsets can be expensive, which can be inaccessible for schools or students with limited resources.
- Users can experience cybersickness (the feeling of nausea, dizziness, and headaches), which can be a problem for students who are prone to motion sickness.
- If students spend too much time in virtual worlds and not enough time in the real world, VR and AR use could be addictive.
- Since they block out the real world, the headsets can be a safety hazard if students are not
- aware of their surroundings.
It is important to be aware of these potential negative sides and take the necessary steps to avoid them.
What are some ways to reduce or eliminate the concerns of using VR and AR?
- Start small (only use it for a short amount of time per day)
- Take breaks to avoid cybersickness
- Closely supervise students
- Inform parents and guardians that VR or AR is being used and ensure they feel comfortable with their children using the technology.
VR and AR can transport students to other worlds, allowing them to experience things that would otherwise be impossible. How cool would it be to see a dinosaur right in front of you? These headsets are not just for entertainment–they are a powerful tool that can be used to improve learning outcomes by helping students learn faster, retain information better, and be more engaged in their learning.
References
Benefits of Virtual Reality in Education. (n.d.). ClassVR. https://www.classvr.com/benefits-of-virtual-reality-in-education/
Campos, E., Hidrogo, I., & Zavala, G. (2022, September 27). Impact of virtual reality use on the teaching and learning of vectors. Frontiers. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2022.965640/full#:~:text=Most%20research%20compares%20students’%20learning,et%20al.%2C%202019
Kim, S. (n.d.). Virtual Reality & Education: Ideas for Your Classroom. Study.com. https://study.com/academy/popular/virtual-reality-education-ideas-for-your-classroom.html
M, V. (2023, January 26). Augmented and Virtual Reality in the Classrooms: How Can Immersive Technologies Enhance Teaching? Vection Technologies. https://vection-technologies.com/blog/Augmented-and-Virtual-Reality-in-the-Classrooms-How-Can-Immersive-Technologies-Enhance-Teaching/#:~:text=These%20technologies%20have%20the%20potential,learning%20more%20immersive%20and%20interactive
Major Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Virtual Reality in Education. (2022, September 1). Edubirdie. https://edubirdie.com/examples/major-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-using-virtual-reality-in-education/
Mathew, J. (2022, June 9). Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) in Education technology. LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/virtual-reality-vr-augmented-ar-education-technology-jacob-mathew/
What’s the difference between AR and VR? (n.d.). Tulane School of Professional Advancement. https://sopa.tulane.edu/blog/whats-difference-between-ar-and-vr#:~:text=AR%20uses%20a%20real%2Dworld,only%20enhances%20a%20fictional%20reality
