Virtual Reality (VR) and interactive 360º experiences are revolutionising the way we teach and learn, offering immersive experiences that bring subjects to life. VRTY provides a versatile platform for integrating VR and 360º into the classroom, and there are three distinct methods of instruction to suit various teaching needs and constraints. Let’s break down these methods and explore how they can enhance your educational practices.
Table of Contents
TEACHER-LED INSTRUCTION
Overview: The teacher-led method is ideal for introducing VR into the classroom with minimal resources. All you need is a single teacher or even a trial account. In this approach, the teacher uses VR within a pedagogical framework, focusing on the first phase of VRTY’s repeatable practices.
How It Works:
- Pedagogical Framework: The teacher guides students through VR/360º experiences, using VR/360º as a text for learning and research.
- Student Engagement: Students practice using VR/360º to explore concepts, conduct research, and gather information.
- Benefits: This method is perfect for initial exposure to VR/360º, allowing students to familiarise themselves with the technology and its potential for learning.
TEACHER-LED CREATION
Overview: The teacher-led creation method is suitable for the early stages of student exposure to the VRTY platform or when constraints such as time or the number of devices limit the scope of student work. In this stage, the teacher still holds the only account but facilitates a collaborative project.
How It Works:
- Collaborative Projects: Students contribute to a single project, each providing information and design for a portion of the VR/360º experience.
- Teacher’s Role: The teacher guides and curates the process, ensuring that all contributions align with the project’s goals.
- Benefits: This approach fosters collaboration and teamwork, making it ideal for projects based on shared experiences, such as class galleries or excursions.
1-TO-1 DEVICES AND LICENSES
Overview: The 1-to-1 method requires that each student has their own device and license. The teacher sets up a class and sends activation codes to student emails, allowing them to create, edit, and publish their own VR/360º projects independently.
How It Works:
- Independent Creation: Students have full access to the VRTY platform, enabling them to work on their projects at their own pace.
- Support Resources: Students can access a series of easy-to-follow guidebooks and instructional videos for essential skills and techniques.
- Professional Development: VRTY will soon release free online professional development for students and staff, including simple certification and future plans for ATSIL mapping and micro-credentials.
- Benefits: This method promotes independent learning and creativity, empowering students to take ownership of their educational journey.
CONCLUSION
VRTY offers flexible methods of instruction to integrate VR/360º into your classroom, whether you’re just starting or looking to expand your use of this innovative technology. Each method provides unique benefits, from initial exposure and collaborative projects to independent creation and professional development.
WHAT NEXT?
Are you passionate about student agencies and eager to bring immersive learning experiences to your students? VRTY is looking for schools and teachers to collaborate on creating curriculum-aligned units using our new repeatable practices for VR/360º in the classroom. You will have the chance to gain early access to our new learning tools and features and several more opportunities. Express your interest today and join us in revolutionising education with VR/360º – click here to contact us.
